Platform: Nintendo Switch
Developer: Forever Entertainment
Publisher: Nintendo
The return of Donkey Kong Country Returns in HD offers a visually enhanced version of the beloved Wii platformer. While the remaster brings welcome updates, some unexpected shortcomings keep it from reaching the heights of its predecessor. This port allows Switch players to revisit Retro Studios’ 2010 classic, but it doesn’t completely live up to the standards set by modern remasters—or even the original.
A Modern Update with a New Engine
This HD version marks a significant effort by Forever Entertainment, who rebuilt the game in Unity. The remaster introduces updated textures, improved character models, and higher resolutions, making it a treat to revisit in 1080p docked or 720p in handheld mode. Visually, the game stays true to its original art direction, with sharper textures and refined effects like rain and water. The opening FMV has also been reworked, likely from scratch, showcasing a strong attention to detail rarely seen in mid-tier remasters.
Despite these improvements, certain cutbacks stand out. Subtle but noticeable visual downgrades—like reduced particle effects, simplified shadows, and missing environmental details—detract from the overall experience. For instance, the memorable sunset in stage three and the luminous glow of floating KONG letters are either absent or toned down, leading to a less vibrant presentation compared to the Wii original.
Performance and Gameplay: A Mixed Bag
While Donkey Kong Country Returns HD generally runs at 60fps, occasional slowdowns mar the otherwise smooth performance. These drops are especially glaring given that the original Wii version maintained a flawless frame rate, even on less powerful hardware. Load times are also noticeably longer, taking nearly twice as long compared to the disc-based Wii release—a puzzling shortfall for a remaster.
Gameplay remains faithful to the original, with tight platforming and creative level design. However, the absence of motion controls—a staple of the Wii version—changes the feel of some mechanics, for better or worse, depending on your preference. The removal of mandatory motion inputs is a relief for some players but slightly reduces the tactile charm of the original experience.
A Good Port, but Not a Great One
Ultimately, Donkey Kong Country Returns HD is an adequate version of the game, but it feels like a missed opportunity. While the remaster delivers sharper visuals and quality-of-life improvements, it doesn’t fully capitalize on the Switch’s hardware. The reduced visual effects and occasional performance hiccups make it feel less like a definitive version and more like a competent, if flawed, re-release.
The game’s core remains intact, and its blend of engaging platforming and creative level design still holds up well. However, it lacks the polish and technical finesse of Retro Studios’ later work, including Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze. Additionally, the music—while iconic—still pales in comparison to the original Super NES trilogy, with the remastered tracks feeling subdued and uninspired.
For those who missed Donkey Kong Country Returns the first time around, the HD remaster is a fine way to experience this classic. The updates make it more accessible, and the gameplay remains as fun and challenging as ever. But for returning fans, the compromises—particularly in visual fidelity and performance—may leave you longing for the original.
