Donkey Kong Bananza stands as the latest installment in one of Nintendo’s most enduring franchises, offering a thrilling experience for fans eager to smash through obstacles. This time, players exclusively control Donkey Kong, with familiar allies like Diddy and Dixie appearing as non-playable characters in supporting roles. So, what does this mean for the potential of co-op gameplay? Let's delve into it.
Is there co-op in Donkey Kong Bananza?
For those hoping to enjoy Donkey Kong Bananza alongside a friend or family member, there’s exciting news: The game includes a co-op feature! Another player can join in to help conquer levels, though it may not be in the way you’d expect. So, what exactly can you do with this feature?
In Donkey Kong Bananza, co-op doesn’t involve splitting the screen or giving the second player full control over a separate DK-like character in the game world. Instead, it allows them to take charge of Donkey Kong’s charming companion, Pauline, as she rides on his shoulder. Consequently, the second player has a more limited range of actions and doesn’t get to experience the rolling, punching, or momentum that comes with playing as the game's main star.
Nevertheless, Pauline’s role is far from insignificant. She’s quite valuable! When controlling Pauline, the second player can duplicate materials found throughout a level and then hurl them at enemies or obstacles to inflict damage. This ability is useful for clearing paths and is particularly advantageous when dealing with bosses.
You can dive into Donkey Kong Bananza through local co-op or online play. Even better, with GameShare, you can temporarily invite a friend or family member (especially younger players) to join your game on their own Switch or Switch 2, even if they don’t own the game. The player controlling Pauline doesn’t need to worry about ability cooldowns and can freely engage, adding an extra layer of fun and chaos to the game. Like many Nintendo titles, this creates ample opportunities for playful interactions and delightful discoveries. It’s an absolute blast.
While the co-op mode in Donkey Kong Bananza might be somewhat limited compared to other full-fledged co-op games, it’s still a fantastic way for younger or casual gamers to get in on the action. Whether you’re playing solo or inviting a friend along, Donkey Kong Bananza is available now for the Nintendo Switch 2.
