Mario VS. Donkey Kong Coming To Nintendo Switch With Co-operative Gameplay And Updated Graphics

A classic Game Boy Advance title is heading to Nintendo Switch consoles early next year – reigniting one of the most famous rivalries throughout gaming history. Players got their first look at the upcoming Mario vs. Donkey Kong remake at the beginning of the 40 minute Nintendo Direct presentation held on September 14th, 2023 which will include co-operative gameplay and updated visuals. The original game was released back in 2004 however Donkey Kong (1994) for Game Boy kickstarted the entire franchise utilizing a similar lock and key mechanics. Players would subsequently go on to enjoy several follow-ups including Mario vs. Donkey Kong 2: March of the Minis (2006) for Nintendo DS handheld devices.

The game begins with Donkey Kong breaking into a factory to steal all of the Mini-Mario wind-up toys for himself and the famed plumber must run, jump, and backflip his way to track down the primate and retrieve them back. Each stage features different contraptions and challenges which players will need to overcome – spikes and moving platforms – with the goal of transporting a large golden key to unlock sealed doors nearby. Coloured switches can trigger blocks to appear or disappear instantaneously to allow for safe passage across obstacles whilst animals can serve unconventional purposes like hitching a ride on a monkey tail to avoid dangerous traps and rhinoceros to alternatively walk over them.

Nintendo is bringing co-operative gameplay to the series for the first time with Player 1 taking control of Mario while Player 2 takes Toad for a spin. Both characters seemingly operate the same as evident in the trailer but Toad might be able to help out in other ways given his stature. The franchise produced generally favourable reviews over the years with Mario vs. Donkey Kong 2: March of the Minis bringing the Construction Zone level editor into the mix which allowed players to share their creations with friends through the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection service which has since been retired and taken offline.

Mario vs. Donkey Kong is scheduled to launch on February 16th, 2024 exclusively for Nintendo Switch.