Nintendo is known for making excellent games based on their own IP, this time, Nintendo takes Donkey Kong and recreates it on the Wii. Developed by Retro Studios — which did the Metroid Prime games — the new Donkey Kong game on the Wii, called Donkey Kong Country Returns, is a 3D side scrolling game much like New Super Mario Bros. And much like NSMB, Donkey Kong Country Returns is a polished, deep, and fun title to play.

In Donkey Kong Country Returns, you play as Donkey and Diddy Kong, where you are on an adventure to reclaim your bananas, which have been stolen by the evil Tikis. This plot device moves you through 8 different game worlds, each with lots of levels, resulting in a lot of quality gameplay. The easiest way to explain Donkey Kong Country Returns is that Nintendo takes the same formula they used on New Super Mario Bros, but that doesn’t mean Donkey Kong loses his history, not at all. Donkey Kong fans will feel right at home with the gameplay, worlds and style. The worlds are huge and various, and the levels offer increasing difficult throughout the game, especially at the end. The levels have a lot of variety, and utilize 3D in a great way. For instance, on one level, you’ll be running while a giant wave will come towards you, and you’ll have to periodically hide behind cover. It’s a great way of adding a third dimension to a 2D side scrolling game.

On top of the lengthy single player campaign, there’s also multiplayer co-op, were you can play through the game with a friend, and we sure recommend this, as it’s a lot of fun and eases on the challenge. Overall, Donkey Kong Country Returns is an awesome platform game that takes the throne from New Super Mario Bros. as the side scrolling title you must own on your Wii. All that is needed now is a true 3D Donkey Kong game, like Super Mario Galaxy.

The Good:
Lots of gameplay
Challenging (in a good way)
Great visuals and soundtrack

The Bad:
Controls can get clumsy at times, especially during tense moments

Overall score: 8/10