The surprise announcement last week of Donkey Kong Country Returns coming to Wii later this year was enough to make fans of the original gasp in sheer amazement. Could a brand new Country title really be heading our way? However with all that’s good, there are undoubtedly going to be some angry monkeys when I tell you what the game won’t include.
1. Under Water levels. According to Retro Studios, the developers behind the title, they don’t like the pacing of the under water levels featured in the first three Rare titles, claiming they “felt slow.” Guess this also takes out the possibility of seeing Enguarde or Clapper return.
2. Playable Diddy Kong. Sorry first player. You’re unable to play as Diddy Kong. In the first DKC title, you could unlock Diddy via a DK barrel and swap between the two characters at anytime. This time, Diddy is more of a power-up that gives Donkey a glide ability thanks to his jetpack. In 2 player co-op mode however, player 2 will control Diddy as his own independent character. You’ll use his jetpack, and can fire at enemies with his peanut gun.
3. King K. Rool. This is the one that may make you cry. Retro decided to create their own group of baddies, none of which will be crocodiles. Yup, no Kluba, no Kremling Krew and no King K. Rool. Since the beginning of Donkey Kong’s adventures outside the world of Mario, his enemies have always been crocodiles. Even in Donkey Kong Jr. for crying out loud. I also assume this means King K. Rool’s epic boss battle music will be ditched as well.
Now that we know what’s not going to be in the game, maybe it can help us get passed it together, and focus on how much awesomeness DKCR is bringing. From barrel bouncing, to banana snatching, to K-O-N-G collecting, to mine cart racing, this game is bringing back almost everything you love. There are also some well deserved Kong cameos planned.
Donkey Kong Country Returns is set for release this holiday season.
