Nintendo Switch Online Update Introduces New Game Boy Classic

On November 25, the Nintendo Switch Online service expanded its collection of Game Boy titles with the unexpected addition of Donkey Kong Land 2. This fresh entry came hot on the heels of the first Donkey Kong Land, which had joined the lineup just four days earlier. It’s a nice surprise for subscribers eager to delve into nostalgic adventures on their Switch consoles.

Back in 1996, Nintendo and Rare teamed up to launch Donkey Kong Land 2, a follow-up to the original Donkey Kong Land. Much like how the first game drew inspiration from Donkey Kong Country, this sequel took its cues from the 1995 SNES hit, Donkey Kong Country 2: Diddy’s Kong Quest. In this iteration, players take charge of Diddy Kong and Dixie Kong across 40 engaging levels in a bid to rescue Donkey Kong from the sinister Kaptain K. Rool. The game simplifies its SNES counterpart’s storyline, featuring the villain demanding the Kongs’ precious banana hoard as a ransom for Donkey Kong’s release.

Just about a week after the initial release of Donkey Kong Land on the Game Boy app, Nintendo Switch Online users now have access to its sequel. Nintendo made this announcement through social media, unveiling a 44-second trailer showcasing Donkey Kong Land 2’s gameplay. The video highlights how players can maneuver with Diddy and Dixie’s unique skills—Diddy with his swift cartwheels and quick runs, while Dixie can glide with her ponytail and pick up various items. Gameplay enthusiasts also have the option of applying Game Boy, Game Boy Pocket, or Game Boy Color filters, adding a nostalgic touch to the experience. Subscribing members simply need to connect to the internet, and the app will update itself automatically or can be updated manually through the system’s software update options.

This latest addition to the Game Boy app has arrived amidst a wave of excitement for the Donkey Kong franchise. Fans are buzzing with the impending launch of the Donkey Kong Country expansion at Super Nintendo Land in Japan this December and are eagerly anticipating the Donkey Kong Country Returns HD release slated for January. With such thrilling developments, it’s a great time to be a fan of our beloved ape mascot.

As for what’s next, the Donkey Kong Land series includes another title, Donkey Kong Land 3. While there’s no official word yet, many players are hopeful it will eventually make its way onto the Nintendo Switch Online platform, continuing the celebration of this classic franchise.