Donkey Kong Bananza developers describe benefits of Switch 2 specifications and share original Switch screenshot

July 16, 2025

Mockup showing Donkey Kong Bananza as a Switch game (Image source: Nintendo of America with edits)

A new Nintendo interview offers insight into how the Switch limited Donkey Kong Bananza development. Only as a Switch 2 game could the title’s destructible environments become a reality. For the first time, the developers also provide a visual comparison of the two versions.

Those who have played the game on the original Switch will be surprised to learn that Donkey Kong Bananza ( ) was developed by

gamers. A new In the Nintendo Ask the Developer interview 2021 is the date that the transition to the new system will begin. Kenta Motokura and Daisuke Watanabe also explain how the Switch 2 specs are beneficial to the 3D platformer.

As Donkey Kong Bananza’s July 17th release date looms closer, they share the first screenshot showing what the game would look like on the Switch. The small comparison images make it difficult to see the difference in visual quality. Many of the benefits are only apparent when interacting with environments.

Donkey Kong Bananza comparison as a Switch vs. Switch 2 game (Image source: Nintendo of America)

According Art Director Watanabe “One of the most obvious improvements was that we could place far more objects in the environment than before.” a main appeal of the Switch 2 games is the freedom to destroy everything around and underneath Donkey Kong.

Donkey Kong Bananza’s graphics rely on voxels. These are 3D pixels. As objects grow larger and more complex they consume console resources. Only the Switch 2 specifications, which include increased memory capacity, allows for these objects be convincingly destroyed.

Game Director Tanaka confirmed in the interview that the processing power of the latest handheld was also crucial. The Nvidia chip of the Switch 2 system proved capable, even though there is no evidence to suggest that the game uses DLSS. Even with authentic-looking explosions and detailed maps, the developers were able to achieve 60fps.

Kazuya Tahashi admitted frame rate drops in the past, despite the team praising Switch 2. He promises a smooth experience in the retail version. The players will be able to judge the significance of the performance hiccups after the release date for Donkey Kong Bananza .