Nintendo recently hosted a non-Switch 2 Nintendo Direct, where they unveiled exciting news about the upcoming Donkey Kong Country area at Universal Japan's Super Nintendo World. Set to open on December 11, 2024, this new attraction promises to immerse visitors in the beloved world of the iconic video game franchise.

Bringing the Jungle Mayhem of Donkey Kong to Life

Rhythmic Bongo Drums and Barrel-Smashing Delights

Donkey Kong Country's new area will feature a unique interactive experience that allows visitors to work together in a rhythmic game on a set of bongo drums. This nod to the Donkey Konga music games will surely delight fans of the franchise. Additionally, the area will boast a Kong-themed restaurant, complete with a sundae inspired by Donkey Kong's penchant for smashing barrels and a Kong-sized hot dog, among other tempting menu items.

Collecting KONG Letters and Exploring Funky Kong's Souvenir Shop

Visitors can embark on a treasure hunt, scouring the area for the elusive KONG letters, just as the iconic simians do in the Donkey Kong Country games. By scanning these letters with their armbands, guests can unlock rewards, adding an extra layer of excitement to their adventure. For those seeking souvenirs, Donkey Kong Country boasts its own themed store, inspired by Funky Kong's shop from the games, offering a unique shopping experience.

The Golden Temple: A Thrilling Roller Coaster Adventure

The main attraction of the Donkey Kong Country area is the Golden Temple, a roller coaster designed with the notoriously challenging mine cart levels from the Donkey Kong Country games in mind. Miyamoto, the creator of Donkey Kong, teased that the ride will feature "rail jumping" and a captivating story about a sacred banana that has Cranky Kong in a tizzy. Visitors can expect a thrilling and immersive experience that captures the essence of the beloved video game franchise.

Expanding to Universal Orlando and Hollywood

The excitement doesn't stop there. Miyamoto revealed that the Super Nintendo World and Donkey Kong Country attractions will also be coming to Universal Orlando in Florida and Universal Hollywood in California, though specific opening dates for these locations have not yet been announced.

A Seamless Integration with the Main Super Nintendo World

One of the notable features of the Donkey Kong Country area is its seamless integration with the main Super Nintendo World park. Visitors will be able to use the same armbands they received at the main entrance, eliminating the need for additional equipment or passes. This level of convenience and cohesion promises to enhance the overall experience for guests.

A Glimpse into the Future of Super Nintendo World

The unveiling of the Donkey Kong Country area at Super Nintendo World in Japan serves as a tantalizing preview of what's to come for the larger theme park experience. As Nintendo and Universal continue to collaborate, fans can expect more beloved franchises to be brought to life in immersive and engaging ways, offering a truly unique and unforgettable theme park experience.