Donkey Kong

Donkey Kong

The King of Swing

Role: Main Protagonist
Species: Kong (Gorilla-based)
Height: 6 feet (DKC2)
Weight: 800 lbs (DK64)
First Appearance: Donkey Kong Country (1994)
Latest Appearance: Donkey Kong Bananza (2025)

🦍 About Donkey Kong Bananza Donkey Kong

Donkey Kong is the main protagonist in Donkey Kong Bananza and one of Nintendo's most iconic characters. Known as the "King of Swing" and "Prime Primate," this Donkey Kong Bananza Donkey Kong is a powerful gorilla who lives on DK Island and protects his home from various threats, particularly the Kremling Krew led by King K. Rool.

Unlike his grandfather Cranky Kong (the original Donkey Kong), the Donkey Kong Bananza Donkey Kong is portrayed as a heroic, though sometimes laid-back character who only springs into action when his friends or beloved banana hoard are threatened. His incredible strength in Donkey Kong Bananza is matched by his surprisingly agile nature and his ability to perform acrobatic feats that belie his massive size.

In Donkey Kong Bananza, this legendary Donkey Kong faces his greatest challenge yet as he explores 17 underground layers, mastering new Bananza transformation abilities and working alongside Pauline to uncover the mysteries of the deepest reaches of his island home. Every Donkey Kong Bananza adventure showcases Donkey Kong's evolution as the ultimate hero.

💪 Donkey Kong Bananza Donkey Kong Abilities & Powers

Super Strength

Physical

Donkey Kong possesses incredible physical strength, able to punch the moon out of orbit and lift massive objects with ease.

Ground Pound

Physical

A devastating attack where DK slams the ground, creating shockwaves that can break blocks and stun enemies.

Coconut Shooter

Ranged

His coconut gun fires in spurts, and if he shoots ya, it's gonna hurt! Heat-seeking coconuts home in on targets.

Barrel Throw

Physical

Can easily lift and throw barrels with tremendous force, a skill dating back to his arcade origins.

Spinning Kong

Movement

Spins rapidly with arms outstretched, allowing him to glide through the air and damage enemies.

Bongo Beat

Musical

Uses magical bongos to create powerful sound waves that can solve puzzles and defeat enemies.

Strong Kong

Transformation

In DK64, becomes completely invincible and can walk over hazardous terrain without taking damage.

Bananza Transformations

Transformation

Can transform into various animal forms: Zebra, Ostrich, Elephant, Snake, each with unique abilities.

👥 Relationships

Cranky Kong

Cranky Kong

Grandfather

The wise but grumpy elder of the Kong family. Despite his complaints, he cares deeply for DK and provides guidance.

Pauline

Pauline

Ally & Friend

Former mayor with musical powers who becomes a key ally. Their relationship has evolved from the classic arcade days.

King K. Rool

King K. Rool

Arch-Enemy

The cruel king of the Kremlings and DK's most persistent enemy. Their rivalry spans decades.

Rambi the Rhino

Rambi the Rhino

Animal Buddy

A loyal rhinoceros companion who aids DK in his adventures with charging attacks and barrier breaking.

📚 History

Arcade Era (1981-1983)

The original Donkey Kong (now Cranky Kong) was Mario's first major adversary, kidnapping Pauline and battling on construction sites.

Country Era (1994-1997)

The modern Donkey Kong debuted in Donkey Kong Country, establishing him as a hero protecting his banana hoard from King K. Rool.

3D Adventures (1999-2007)

DK starred in Donkey Kong 64 and various spin-offs, showcasing his bongo-playing skills and expanding his moveset.

Returns Era (2010-2014)

Retro Studios revitalized the franchise with Donkey Kong Country Returns and Tropical Freeze, featuring epic boss battles.

Bananza Era (2025)

The latest adventure sees DK exploring 777 underground layers, mastering new transformation abilities in the deepest adventure yet.

🎮 Donkey Kong Bananza Features

🦎

Transformation System

Master 5 different animal forms with unique abilities: Kong (strength), Zebra (speed), Ostrich (jumping), Elephant (weight), Snake (stealth).

💎

Banandium Collection

Collect 777 Banandium Gems scattered across the underground layers to unlock new areas and abilities.

🎵

Musical Powers

Work with Pauline to activate special musical sequences that trigger powerful transformations and solve puzzles.

🔨

Destructible Terrain

Use DK's strength to break through soft terrain, moderate terrain, and even some hard surfaces to find secrets.