Difficulty and frustration keep this game from being fun.
Review 162
Released: June 9, 2003
Publisher: Nintendo
Developer: Rare Ltd.
Game Genre: 2D Platformer
ESRB Rating: E for Everyone
Opening Thoughts:
Donkey Kong Country is a direct adaptation from the classic Super Nintendo game.
Story: 30%
Gameplay: 40%
Graphics: 20%
Durability: 10%
Story (7/10)
Donkey Kong is very similar to the Super Mario series in the sense that there is a lack of a storyline that does not affect the game at all. The story is very simple. Donkey Kong has had his bananas stolen and Diddy Kong has been kidnapped. Now he must trek through six different worlds to try and track down the bad guy.
Gameplay (7/10)
Unlike most platformers, Donkey Kong Country adds an extra element…a teammate. Certain barrels can be found throughout levels that, when busted, bring Diddy Kong (or Donkey Kong if you break it with Diddy) into the picture. The L button switches between characters. Donkey Kong seems to have the advantage over Diddy because he can stomp and kill some enemies that Diddy can only stun.
In each world, Donkey and Diddy Kong must make their way through many levels and mini-games before facing down a boss.
Donkey Kong Country escapes repetition by adding different elements to each level. In one level, you must make your way around almost entirely by shooting yourself through barrels and around obstacles. In another, you have to hit barrels to stop the enemies and get around them before they start again.
The problem with DKC is that it is a poor adaptation to a handheld console. The controls in later levels become awkward and difficult, which creates a ton of frustration.
Graphics (6/10)
The graphics weren't smoothed over very well from the SNES and could definitely have been more improved.
Durability (6/10)
DKC will keep you occupied for a bit, but frustration that begins around the third world will make you want to put it down.
Overall Score (6.7/10)
Rounded Score (6.5/10)