Common Sense Media Review
By Marc Saltzman
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Highly enjoyable new spin on a classic, now with co-op.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Play
Videos and Photos
Donkey Kong Country Returns
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 6 parent reviews
Based on 18 kid reviews
Kids say that this game is a fun but challenging experience, making it enjoyable for both younger and older players, though some reviewers caution that its difficulty might frustrate younger kids. The vibrant graphics, engaging gameplay, and nostalgia for fans of the original series are praised, although the challenging levels and some cartoonish violence may not be suitable for all children.
- fun gameplay
- vivid graphics
- challenging levels
- appropriate for older kids
- nostalgic experience
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
What's It About?
If you believe a family that plays together, stays together, prepare to a spend a lot of time with DONKEY KONG COUNTRY RETURNS, a new spin on the beloved side-scrolling series from Nintendo. Once again, the burly Donkey Kong has teamed up with his agile nephew, Diddy Kong, to navigate a treacherous island in order to retrieve Donkey Kong's banana hoard and put an end to the mind-controlling Tikis who've brainwashed the natives into stealing the gorilla's favorite snack. OK, so you're not going to play this game for its deep story, but the fun gameplay should keep you glued to the television. This includes jumping over chasms, pounding the ground to stun enemies, tossing barrels, riding in mine carts, and fighting your way through lush outdoor areas.
Is It Any Good?
Donkey Kong Country Returns is a blast from the past – but with better graphics, new moves, expansive environments, and perhaps most importantly, cooperative ("co-op") play for two gamers to team up and tackle the worlds together. For example, the duo can hover via Diddy's jetpack or Diddy can hop on Donkey's back and fire his peanut popgun. You'll control the action by holding the Wii Remote and nunchuk, and shaking them for special moves, or you can simply hold the Wii Remote sideways as is done in games such as Kirby's Epic Yarn. Timing is also important as you must navigate threats, such as a large octopus that slaps its spiky tentacles in your path. There are also secret areas to uncover, collectible letters that spell K-O-N-G, and well-hidden puzzle pieces that unlock more fun. Call us bananas, but Nintendo has another hit on its hands with this new take on a retro classic.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about whether they like games that stick with an old gameplay mechanic and add new worlds and graphics -- or do they prefer new characters, gameplay concepts, and interface designs?
This is a game in which a parent and child can play together. Did you try it? If you don't understand your kids' video games, here are some tips about gaming that might help.
Game Details
- Platforms : Nintendo Wii , Nintendo 3DS
- Pricing structure :
- Available online? : Not available online
- Publisher : Nintendo
- Release date : November 21, 2010
- Genre : Action/Adventure
- ESRB rating :
- Last updated : October 9, 2025
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