Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze

Like Comment Rate

Developer(s):
Monster Games
Nintendo SPD Group No. 3
Retro Studios

Publisher(s):
Nintendo

Series:
Donkey Kong

Platform(s):
Nintendo Wii U

Released Date(s):
Nintendo Wii U (original release):
Japan: February 14, 2014
North America/Europe: February 21, 2014
Australia: February 22, 2014
Nintendo Switch
Japan: May 3, 2018
Worldwide: May 4, 2018

Genre(s):
Platformer

Mode(s):
Single-player & Multiplayer

Bree's Review:

This platform game stars Donkey Kong and his family—Diddy, Dixie, and Cranky Kong—as they navigate through many islands, from underwater to frozen terrains, to reclaim their home from the icy Snowmads. Each Kong has unique abilities that assist in collecting Kong letters and puzzle pieces, crucial for progressing in the game. The challenges are amplified by enemies like walruses, owls, and penguins, and the game's high difficulty level is evident in the strategic placement of collectibles and complex platforming sections. Fans of the series will appreciate nostalgic elements such as mine cart rides and barrel blasting. Visuals are stunning across the vividly themed worlds, complemented by an outstanding soundtrack by David Wise and Kenji Yamamoto, with memorable tracks like "Busted Bayou" and "Big Top Bop." While the controls are generally responsive, some levels, particularly those involving barrel controls, can be tricky, adding to the game's challenge. The inclusion of Funky Kong’s shop provides useful items like extra hearts, enhancing gameplay and bringing a fun, quirky element to the experience.