Nintendo has just dropped a substantial free update for Donkey Kong Country Returns HD, and it’s packed with more than just bug fixes. Released today as Version 1.1.0, the update brings new playable content, quality-of-life improvements, and most notably, an upgrade for Nintendo Switch 2 owners.
What’s New in Donkey Kong Country Returns HD Version 1.1.0 ?
The headline feature is the addition of Dixie Kong as a playable character, complete with her own unique jumping mechanics that differentiate her from Diddy Kong. When playing solo, grabbing a barrel lets you switch between Diddy and Dixie on the fly. In two-player mode, Player 2 can toggle between the two Kongs by pressing the control stick on the world map.
A new Turbo Attack mode has also been introduced, allowing players to race through stages at breakneck speed. Once you’ve cleared a course, this time-trial-style mode becomes available alongside the existing Time Attack mode. Successfully beating the time limit rewards you with a turbo medal, adding another layer of replayability for completionists.
On Switch 2, the game truly shines with some impressive enhancements. The title now supports GameShare (Local User) functionality for easy local multiplayer, has been optimized for the console’s stunning display and high-resolution TVs for significantly improved image quality, and features noticeably reduced loading times that keep the action flowing. The update also addresses various issues and implements image quality enhancements across both the original Switch and Switch 2 platforms.
Final Thoughts
The fact that a remaster of a Wii game is receiving not just a free Switch 2 upgrade, but actual new content alongside it, sends an encouraging signal about Nintendo’s commitment to supporting titles across both platforms. If Donkey Kong Country Returns HD is getting this level of attention, it’s hard to imagine any major Nintendo franchise being left behind. Fire Emblem and Xenoblade fans who’ve been anxiously waiting for news about their favorite series on Switch 2 should have nothing to worry about.
