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Even those unfamiliar with gaming likely recognize Nintendo, the legendary Japanese company synonymous with interactive entertainment. And of course, the image of the mustachioed Mario, perpetually fueled by mushrooms, is etched into the minds of generations of gamers. One franchise, however, has been with Nintendo since its early days, and is rumored to have launched Mario to superstardom: Donkey Kong. Developed by Retro Studios and published by Nintendo for the Wii U, Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze takes this classic franchise to new heights. This review explores what makes this platformer a must-play for Wii U owners.

• Developer: Retro Studios
• Publisher: Nintendo
• Genre: Platformer, Action
• Release Date: February 21, 2014
• Platform: Wii U
• Price: $49.99

A Timeless Platforming Legacy

Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze stays true to the core gameplay that defined the series: navigating intricate levels filled with surprises through skillful platforming. Controlling the titular ape, players must jump, swing, and swim their way through a variety of environments. Unlike other platforming icons like Mega Man or Mario, Donkey Kong relies on his primate prowess rather than power-ups or special abilities. The level design is masterful, seamlessly blending challenging platforming sections with visually stunning landscapes. The flow between different environments, such as transitioning from lush jungles to ancient ruins or hidden underwater caverns, feels natural and exciting.

The narrative revolves around Donkey Kong’s tropical paradise being invaded and frozen by arctic penguins. This premise allows for diverse levels, from verdant jungles reminiscent of classic Donkey Kong titles to frigid snow-covered landscapes. Each environment is teeming with secrets, collectibles, and hidden challenges, encouraging exploration and rewarding thorough players.

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Hidden throughout the levels are letters spelling “KONG” and puzzle pieces that unlock beautiful dioramas, adding replay value for completionists. Certain sections, once passed, cannot be revisited without restarting the level or from a checkpoint, demanding careful attention and exploration. Along the way, Donkey Kong can find barrels containing Diddy Kong, Cranky Kong, and Dixie Kong. These companions not only increase Donkey Kong’s health but also grant him unique abilities, such as Diddy’s jetpack for hovering or Dixie’s hair twirl for extra height.

Visually Stunning Environments

While previous Donkey Kong games weren’t known for their graphics, Tropical Freeze showcases Retro Studios’ ability to push the Wii U’s capabilities. Despite utilizing a cartoonish art style, the visuals are incredibly detailed, bringing the game’s world to life. From lush foliage to sparkling water, every element is rendered with stunning clarity, making each environment feel vibrant and alive.

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The diverse environments provide ample opportunity for Retro Studios to showcase their artistic talent. Transitions between lush green jungles, serene underwater worlds, icy landscapes, and fiery volcanic regions are seamless and visually breathtaking.

The classic barrel-blasting segments return, but with a twist. The camera shifts to a 3D perspective during these sections, emphasizing the depth and detail of the fully 3D environments, which are not as apparent during traditional side-scrolling gameplay.

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A Challenging Platforming Experience

One reason Donkey Kong hasn’t reached the same level of popularity as Mario is its demanding difficulty. While not unfairly frustrating, Tropical Freeze presents a significant challenge. Even completing a level without losing a life can be a feat. The numerous hidden secrets and collectibles add another layer of complexity for those seeking 100% completion. The level design often requires precise platforming and creative use of the environment, testing players’ skills to the limit.

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Reaching certain items placed high above requires mastering techniques like momentum-based rolls and bouncing off enemies, similar to Mario’s signature move.

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Conclusion

Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze is a challenging yet rewarding platforming experience. Its stunning visuals, intricate level design, and tight controls make it a must-have for Wii U owners. While the difficulty may deter some, those willing to persevere will be rewarded with a truly memorable gaming experience.