Donkey Kong Country Returns
Highly enjoyable new spin on a classic, now with co-op.
Parents say
Based on 6 reviews
Kids say
Based on 19 reviews
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Donkey Kong Country Returns
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this game.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that Donkey Kong Country Returns is a fast-paced side-scrolling adventure featuring classic Nintendo characters Donkey Kong and his nephew Diddy. There is some mild violence in the form of shooting with a pop-gun and pounding the ground so hard so as to destroy the baddies. The cartoon graphics, silly storyline, and violent-free gameplay (for the most part) all point to a good family pick. Plus, this game allows for two players to enjoy it together in a cooperative mode.
Community Reviews
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
- Available online?: Not available online
- Publisher: Nintendo
- Release date: November 21, 2010
- Genre: Action/Adventure
- ESRB rating: E for Mild Cartoon Violence
- Last updated: June 30, 2022
Our Editors Recommend
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Super Mario Galaxy 2
Brilliant platformer a surefire hit for virtually all ages.
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Kirby's Epic Yarn
Original and beautiful platformer is one of the year's best.
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New Super Mario Bros. Wii
Ingenious remake is a classic for both old, new fans.
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