Mario Vs Donkey Kong: Everything We Know

The most recent Nintendo Direct showcase was jam-packed with exciting new titles. At the same time, there were also a few remakes announced that we can't wait to play the likes of again. One of those is a remake of Mario vs. Donkey Kong. Originally, released in 2004 for the Game Boy Advance, this remake is landing on the Nintendo Switch with a re-imagined story and gameplay. As a result, we know there are a lot of questions about what's to come, so read on to learn everything there is to know about Mario vs. Donkey Kong below.

What is Mario vs. Donkey Kong?

Mario vs. Donkey Kong is a spin-off that is based on the beloved characters' rivalry. Donkey Kong, of course, is up to no good, and Mario is back to put a stop to his antics. How exactly? Playing as Mario, you must progress through a series of 2D platforming levels. Each level contains a key that you must bring to a door to unlock the next level. However, the process is far from simple and is fraught with difficulties. As a result, if you're going to catch Donkey Kong, you'll need to have your wits about you.

Story

The Mini-Mario Factory serves as the setting for Mario vs. Donkey Kong. When Donkey Kong sneaks in and steals a bunch of mini Mario toys right under Mario's nose, he has no choice but to track his rival down. This sets him off on a wild goose chase through a series of factory-themed puzzle-platforming levels. Of course, your ultimate goal is to obtain the keys needed to progress to the next level while also recovering all of the mini-mario toys stolen from your factory.

It may not be the most gripping plot of all time, but it does set the stage for a game of this nature. The main appeal, of course, stems primarily from the puzzle-platform gameplay. So, read on to learn everything there is to know on that front.

Gameplay

In terms of gameplay, Mario vs. Donkey Kong will play as a standard puzzle platformer. However, a few key gameplay mechanics to be aware of are Mario's handstand and jump abilities which you can use to help combat levels. After all, the levels aren't straightforward and require a keen eye to solve.

Fortunately, thanks to local co-op, you are not the only mastermind at work here. Arguably the biggest and most exciting new addition to this remake is that it allows you to enjoy the game with a friend. We know this as Toad can be seen accompanying Mario on one of the levels in the game's trailer.

Bringing a friend along for the ride not only allows you to combine your brain power to solve levels, but it also doubles your strength when facing Donkey Kong. Because, as you might expect, what better way to cap off this game than with an epic battle between Mario and Donkey Kong – the name literally foreshadows it.

With a ton of puzzles mixed with some action gameplay, and the ability to bring a friend along for the ride, Mario vs. Donkey Kong is looking like it's shaping up to be a well-rounded experience. However, we'll have to wait and see what other gameplay elements make it into the game's final version. Nonetheless, the game is doing a good job of getting us excited for what's to come.

Development

Of course, Mario vs. Donkey Kong is being developed by Nintendo. And what is it about Nintendo that we adore? It has to be the fact that they usually only announce a game after it has begun development. And with Mario vs. Donkey Kong being announced with a gameplay trailer and a slew of in-game screenshots, it's safe to assume Nintendo is well into the game's development. In fact, they've already given us a release date. But before we spill the beans on that, take a look at the announcement trailer for the game.

Trailer

Embedded above is the announcement trailer for Mario vs. Donkey Kong which was unveiled at the latest Nintendo Direct showcase. It simultaneously shows us gameplay while explaining the story. In it, you can see Mario performing his backflip move to help him reach another platform on a level. Furthermore, you can see a variety of levels in action, each with its own distinct style and challenge.

Release Date, Platforms & Editions

You may have caught it at the end of the announcement trailer, but Mario vs. Donkey Kong is releasing on February 16, 2024. As is the standard for Nintendo-developed games, it will be released exclusively for the Switch. As far as editions, we only know of the base game. However, you have to wonder if it will release as a day-one title for Nintendo Switch Online subscribers. Nonetheless, we can't confirm that for as of now, but it would be a treat to hear later on down the line.

Aside from that, that's all we know about Mario's latest adventure. Nonetheless, stay tuned to Gaming.Net as we'll keep you updated on any news when it sheds. Aside from that, take a look at these other Mario titles to keep you entertained in the meantime.

So, what's your take? Are you excited about Mario Vs Donkey Kong? Let us know in the comments below or over on our socials here!