Content Continues Below
 

Donkey Kong Bananza is looking to reinvent gaming’s greatest gorilla. That fresh perspective on DK and the subterranean world he’s smashing through made it unclear how much of his familiar cast would be a part of the adventure.

 

 

Young Pauline may be his true costar, but some other returning krewmates were confirmed in the game’s dedicated Nintendo Direct as well!

 

Cranky & Rambi

 

 

Showing up first were Cranky Kong and the original Animal Buddy, Rambi! The pair seem to be traveling together, with Cranky trading in his cane for a shovel and the ever helpful rhino carrying their supplies. No details on the duo were given beyond the fact they’re also exploring the game’s underground layers, but it seems Rambi isn’t the only rhino around these parts…

 

Diddy Kong & Dixie Kong

 

 

In an ending montage for the Direct, DK and Pauline could be seen riding one of their own in a race. Rather than challenging the old curmudgeon, though, they were up against Diddy Kong and Dixie Kong! It was just a brief glimpse, but having more friendly Kongs along in some capacity will go a long way in making Bananza feel more connected to the series’ past.

Let’s hope they’re not the only familiar faces we’ll see when Donkey Kong Bananza launches on July 17th.

 

More Donkey Kong Bananza

 

A Donkey Kong Bananza amiibo is officially on the way!

 

So the rumor was true: Pauline is in Donkey Kong Bananza

 

 

Leave a Comment

Written by Ricky Berg

When he isn’t writing for Nintendo Wire, Ricky’s anticipating the next Kirby, Fire Emblem, or if the stars ever align, Mother 3 to be released. Till then he’ll have the warm comfort of Super Smash Bros. to keep him going.