Nintendo Modifies Classic Character After Donkey Kong Redesign

Nintendo has revealed its updated design for Diddy Kong, following earlier visual adjustments made to his longtime companion Donkey Kong.

Earlier this year, eagle-eyed Nintendo fans observed noticeable modifications to Donkey Kong's appearance in official artwork and early Mario Kart World gameplay footage.

The company has now unveiled updated visuals for Diddy Kong through official website artwork and branding materials displayed at Licensing Expo 2025, currently underway in Las Vegas.

As reported by Nintendo Life, the refreshed design presents a more cartoonish interpretation of Diddy Kong, featuring rounder eyes and a more playful, approachable expression.

Attendees at Licensing Expo 2025 - an industry event where brands showcase their intellectual properties for merchandising opportunities - can view the redesigned Kong duo firsthand, as evidenced in photos shared by attendee Cptn_Alex on social media.

While Nintendo hasn't officially commented on the design updates for either Kong character, industry observers note the aesthetic alignment with their appearances in the blockbuster The Super Mario Bros. Movie.

The visual refresh extends to Princess Peach as well, with the Mushroom Kingdom's monarch receiving updates to resemble her silver screen counterpart more closely, particularly visible on the packaging for Princess Peach: Showtime! for Switch.

Of course this post is popping off lmao. Here's a better look at the new render :)

via Nintendo booth @ Licensing Expo

— CptnAlex (@Cptn_Alex) May 20, 2025

Donkey Kong will headline the upcoming Switch 2 title Donkey Kong Bananza, and while Diddy Kong's participation remains unconfirmed, the appearance of other Kong family members like Cranky Kong - combined with Nintendo's current visual refresh efforts - strongly suggests his inclusion.

The upcoming Super Mario Bros. Movie sequel, reportedly titled Super Mario World, also seems poised to feature expanded roles for Nintendo's ape characters, complete with their updated designs, following their successful debut in the first installment.