Donkey Kong Country Tropical Freeze

A challenging return to Donkey Kong’s roots

Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze for the Wii U is a 2.5D side-scrolling platformer that continues the beloved Donkey Kong Country series. Released in 2014, it is the fifth game in the franchise, discounting remakes, ports and spin-offs.

The game introduces new levels, characters, and mechanics, all while staying true to the classic formula. Following on from previous adventures, Donkey Kong and his partner Kongs travel back to Donkey Kong Island after being flung away by a group of Viking-like seafarers know as the the Snowmads.

For the first time players can choose from more than two playable characters, with Diddy Kong, Dixie Kong and Cranky Kong acting as companions of Donkey Kong, complimenting his abilities in different ways.

Beautiful visuals and dynamic music

One of the standout features of Tropical Freeze is its breathtaking visuals. The game uses vibrant, hand-drawn environments that pop off the screen, bringing the tropical setting to life with stunning detail. Each level has its own unique theme, from lush jungles to icy mountain peaks, all set to an energetic and memorable soundtrack. The music changes dynamically depending on the situation, adding to the immersion and excitement. The combination of beautiful visuals and a catchy score makes the game a joy to experience.

Tough but rewarding gameplay

Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze is renowned for its difficulty. The game doesn’t pull punches, with levels full of obstacles and tough enemies. The platforming is tight, and the controls are responsive, but every misstep feels punishing. However, this challenge is part of the fun, and the sense of accomplishment after completing a tough section is incredibly rewarding. The addition of new characters like Funky Kong, who has his own set of abilities, adds some variety and can make some levels a little more manageable. For those looking for a modern take on classic platforming, Tropical Freeze provides a satisfying and challenging experience.

A port of Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze was released for the Nintendo Switch in May 2018.

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