A fine addition to the franchise...
Gameplay: Unlike previous games in the series, you use the DK bongos to move Donkey Kong around. The left bongo makes DK move left and the right bongo makes DK move right. Tapping and smacking the bongos quickly makes Donkey Kong run. Jumping is harder than running; you have to smack both at the same time. Not saying its hard, its just hardER than simply moving.
The main focus of this game is to collect as many bananas as you can. A way to improve your banana score is to clap. Clapping is use to pick things up, destroy enemies and get out-of-reach bananas. The more bananas you get in one clap, the more points you'll get. Some bananas may seem impossible to get though, really aren't. You'll just have to play the game for an abundance of time to understand and master the game mechanics. You collect "crests" for your triumphs of getting an absurd amount of bananas. Crests open new worlds... and thats just about it. The game does get tedious and repetitive, but its still very fun.
Graphics: The graphics for DKJB are amazing. Donkey Kong looks hairier than ever, and the bosses look great. Jungle Beat's landscape is very outstanding and colorful, especially the jungle. The problem I had was recognizing things. Sadly, the only character I recognized was DK himself. No Diddy, no kremlings, no nothing. Its seems empty without Rare...
Sound: Music in Donkey Kong games have always been grade AAA and most of the Jungle Beats tunes are top-notch. DK makes numerous grunts when he gets an item or when he dies, he still makes noise nonetheless. Even the boss music is great!! I noticed Donkey Kong Country had far better music. Thats pretty obvious, because the DKC series had some the best music... EVER.
Replay: Sadly this game isn't longer, because it was fun to play! In fact, its quite short even compared to the Donkey Kong Country games. You can always go back and collect all the crests, but I admit, sooner or later will get bored. The DKC games were far better, but this is still very entertaining. I suggest 6 hours tops for an average gamer. Hardcore gamers may not be pleased. It's also annoying that there are ZERO extras, whatsoever, Buy, Rent, or Leave: If you are are a platforming fan and/or a Donkey Kong fan ( like me ) you should buy this game! If you hate short games, rent this one. If you hate DK, the bongos, and old school fun, leave it. But I would still recommend trying this game.
Conclusion: This game would be a lot better with a multiplayer feature or some extra modes, but it's still a well made title. I would like to congratulate Nintendo on making another fantastic game to add to your GCN library. Finally somebody makes an innovative, yet short game...