On January 20, 2026, Nintendo shadow-dropped a free update to Donkey Kong Country Returns HD.
Donkey Kong Country Returns originally launched on the Nintendo Wii over a decade ago, was later ported to the Nintendo 3DS, and an updated version of the game arrived on the original Nintendo Switch in early 2025. However, the new free update went live this week, adding new game modes, enhanced visuals, and a new playable character.
Dixie Kong Finally Arrives in Donkey Kong Country Returns
When Donkey Kong Country Returns first arrived on the Nintendo Wii in 2010, it was heralded as a return to the glory days of the Donkey Kong series on the Super Nintendo. However, while Diddy Kong was originally a playable sidekick, Dixie Kong was absent from the games until Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze was released on the Nintendo Wii U.
Now, the new free update to Donkey Kong Country Returns HD for the Nintendo Switch family of consoles adds a playable Dixie Kong for the first time. Instead of using Diddy’s jetpack to fly through the air, players will be able to use Dixie Kong’s Helicopter Spin.
Additionally, the free update boasts enhanced visuals and resolution, as well as faster load times, specifically for the Nintendo Switch 2. GameShare is also supported on the Nintendo Switch 2, allowing players to play with a friend who doesn’t have the game via a local wireless connection. There’s also a new Turbo Attack Mode that serves as a time trial.
Donkey Kong’s Moment in the Sun
Ever since the release of the Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo’s oldest mascot and the leader of the bunch, Donkey Kong, has been back front and center in the first year of the new Switch. Donkey Kong Bananza was the first standout 3D platformer of the new console, featuring DK’s redesign and the return of King K. Rool.
DK is also featured in Mario Kart World and is slated to be a major focal point of the campaign mode in Mario Tennis Fever. That game is slated to feature the largest roster in series history. Learn more about that here. While players are still await news of the next major Mario game, there’s plenty of Donkey Kong to hold Nintendo fans over.
How do you feel about the shadow drop? Are you surprised that a game that is over a decade old is still getting updates? Sound off in our official Discord server. Also, don’t forget to sign up for our weekly newsletter.
