The King of the Jungle has returned—Donkey Kong Country Returns HD is now available exclusively on Nintendo Switch. This enhanced reimagining of the 2010 Wii classic brings the beloved 2D side-scrolling platformer into the modern era with refined visuals and all the fast-paced, precision-based gameplay fans remember. Originally re-released on the 3DS in 2013 with bonus content, this HD version includes every level from both the original Wii release and the additional 3DS-exclusive stages.
Right now, the game is on sale for $10 off at Woot, priced at just $49.99 instead of the standard $59.99—making it the best place to grab your copy. While it's also available at major retailers like Best Buy, GameStop, Target, Walmart, and the Nintendo eShop (digitally), none of them currently match Woot’s discounted price.
Donkey Kong Country Returns HD – Pricing Overview
- Woot – $49.99 (save $10)
- Best Buy – $59.99
- GameStop – $59.99
- Target – $59.99
- Walmart – $59.99
- Nintendo eShop (digital) – $59.99
Only a standard physical edition is available, but it includes the full game—no extra editions or bundles to wait for. If you're hoping to preorder via Amazon, you may be out of luck. Recent Nintendo Switch titles have skipped Amazon preorders entirely and only appear at launch.
What Is Donkey Kong Country Returns HD?
This isn’t just a simple port—it’s a full HD overhaul of a modern platforming classic. All 65 levels from the original Wii release are included, along with the eight bonus levels that debuted on the 3DS. The game retains its reputation for being a true challenge, demanding precise jumps, quick reflexes, and expert timing.
However, this new version gives players a choice: experience the game in its original, unforgiving difficulty, or switch to the easier mode introduced in the 3DS version. This alternative setting grants additional hearts, more forgiving mechanics, and greater accessibility for younger or less experienced players.
Gameplay remains true to form—expect high-speed runs, vine swings, barrel blasts, puzzle-platforming segments, and plenty of banana collecting. And when you find Diddy Kong, you can team up for local two-player co-op, adding a fun social layer to the adventure.
Donkey Kong Country Returns HD is a polished, vibrant, and satisfying platformer that feels right at home on the Switch. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the series, it's a worthy addition to any platforming library. For more details, check out our 8/10 review of Donkey Kong Country Returns HD to see how it holds up today.
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