Nintendo has recently unveiled a refreshed appearance for Diddy Kong, following the earlier redesign of his iconic companion, Donkey Kong. Earlier this year, fans noticed significant updates to Donkey Kong's design in official artwork and previews of Mario Kart World.
Now, Nintendo has shared new artwork of Diddy Kong, showcased on their website and at the Licensing Expo 2025 in Las Vegas. The updated Diddy Kong features a more cartoonish style, with rounder eyes and a playful, friendly smile. These changes were first spotted by Nintendo Life and can be seen in images from the expo shared by attendee Cptn_Alex on social media.
Image credit: Nintendo.
Image credit: Nintendo.
Nintendo has not provided an official statement on the redesigns of Diddy Kong and the earlier changes to Donkey Kong. However, these alterations are thought to align with the characters' appearances in the successful The Super Mario Bros. Movie.
Even Princess Peach has undergone a slight redesign, with her appearance on the box of her Switch game, Princess Peach: Showtime!, reflecting her look from the movie, as noted by IGN's sister site, Eurogamer.
Of course this post is popping off lmao. Here’s a better look at the new render :)
via Nintendo booth @ Licensing Expo pic.twitter.com/QzxJOWs9gF
— CptnAlex (@Cptn_Alex) May 20, 2025
Looking ahead, Donkey Kong is set to star in the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 title, Donkey Kong Bananza. Although Diddy Kong's involvement has not been confirmed, the presence of other Kong family members like Cranky Kong, and the recent updates to Diddy's look, suggest a high likelihood of his inclusion.
Furthermore, the upcoming sequel to The Super Mario Bros. Movie, tentatively titled Super Mario World, is expected to feature more of Nintendo's beloved apes, including the newly redesigned Diddy Kong.
