Donkey Kong Bananza – DK Island & Emerald Rush launched on September 12, 2025. The paid Nintendo Switch 2 DLC adds a freely explorable DK Island and Emerald Rush, a repeatable challenge mode built around timed runs to collect emerald ore.
What’s included in the DLC?
DK Island
DK Island is a new location based on Donkey Kong’s home. You can explore it, meet familiar characters and obtain character statues with Banandium Chips. Nintendo describes the island on its UK DLC page.
Emerald Rush
Emerald Rush sends you on timed runs to gather emerald ore. During a run, you rebuild DK’s power and skills, then earn in-game rewards and perks. Fossils provide stackable perks, while Banandium Gems grant randomized skills. Run-specific perks and skills reset when the run ends, so the build you create is temporary. Nintendo outlines these mechanics on its UK DLC page.
How to access DK Island and start Emerald Rush
Access depends on whether you have cleared the main game:
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One-click scans. No signup required.
#1 Best Overall
- Explore a vast underground world—by smashing your way through it!
- A brand-new 3D platforming action adventure starring Donkey Kong and Pauline
- Bash through just about anything in groundbreaking exploration! Crash through walls and carve tunnels—the more you smash, the more areas open up to you
- Pair up with Pauline to use Bananza Transformations: smash through obstacles with the raw strength of Kong form, gallop with incredible speed as a Zebra, and more
- Team up with a friend in two-player co-op as Donkey Kong and Pauline! Blast foes and terrain alike with Pauline’s voice as you explore together
- Before clearing the main game: Talk to Squawks at the Racing Layer to reach DK Island.
- After clearing the main game: Speak with an Elder about Bananza Rehearsal, then use the Warp Gong to travel to the island.
Once on DK Island, speak with Void Kong to begin Emerald Rush. Nintendo’s support guidance and version 2.0.0 update history describe the access routes.
Platform, requirements and price
The DLC is for Nintendo Switch 2 and requires the full Donkey Kong Bananza game. It is sold separately; owning the base game is not the same as owning the DLC. Nintendo lists the digital add-on through the Nintendo eShop and Nintendo Store.
Rank #2
![Donkey Kong Bananza Standard - Nintendo Switch 2 [Digital Code]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51Xv8olm5RL._SL160_.jpg)
- Uncover a wide variety of environments, like forest, canyon, and lagoon, as you delve underground
- Reshape the world as you tear through it, with the help of…an Odd Rock?
Nintendo’s US product listing showed a price of $19.99 when reviewed. That is a US store listing, not a universal or guaranteed current price, so check the listing for your region before buying. If you still need the required base game, Nintendo also lists Donkey Kong Bananza for Nintendo Switch 2; the physical game does not include this separately sold DLC.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.When did the DLC launch?
Nintendo’s UK page gives September 12, 2025 as the release date. Nintendo’s US support update history says version 2.0.0, released that day, added support for the paid DLC. It is already released, rather than a new launch. Nintendo’s DLC page and update history provide those details.
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Best Value
- The next evolution of Nintendo Switch
- One system, three play modes: TV, Tabletop, and Handheld
- Larger, vivid, 7.9” LCD touch screen with support for HDR and up to 120 fps
- Explore a vast underground world—by smashing your way through it!
- A brand-new 3D platforming action adventure starring Donkey Kong and Pauline
Rank #4
- Embark on a brand-new Donkey Kong adventure exclusive to Nintendo Switch 2.
- Explore the Underground World with dynamic environments and hidden secrets.
- Battle VoidCo and its minions using DK’s signature strength and powerful punches.
- Team up with a mysterious new companion with unique gameplay abilities.
- Recover the Golden Bananas across thrilling, action-packed levels.
Rank #3
![Donkey Kong Bananza Bundle (game + DK Island & Emerald Rush DLC) Standard - Nintendo Switch 2 [Digital Code]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51N7IcgPIEL._SL160_.jpg)
- WARNING: If you have epilepsy or have had seizures or other unusual reactions to flashing lights or patterns, consult a doctor before playing video games. All users should read the Health and Safety Information available in the system settings before using this software. A Nintendo Switch Online membership (sold separately) is required for Save Data Cloud backup. Nintendo.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
