Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze (2014)
Retro Studios' masterpiece sequel that many consider the finest 2D platformer ever created, featuring the return of Dixie Kong and David Wise's triumphant musical comeback.
Game Overview
Release Date: February 21, 2014 (Wii U), May 4, 2018 (Nintendo Switch) Platforms: Wii U, Nintendo Switch (Definitive Edition) Developer: Retro Studios Characters: Donkey Kong, Diddy Kong, Dixie Kong, Cranky Kong
Description
The Snowmads, a group of arctic invaders led by Lord Fredrik, have frozen Donkey Kong Island and banished our heroes. DK and friends must traverse six frozen islands to reclaim their home in what many consider the pinnacle of 2D platforming.
Enhanced Features
- Dixie Kong Returns - Her helicopter hair and bubblegum gun abilities
- Cranky Kong Playable - The grumpy elder joins as a playable character with his cane-pogo ability
- Dynamic Camera - Seamless transitions between 2D and 2.5D perspectives
- Swimming Levels - Beautifully designed underwater sequences
- David Wise Soundtrack - The legendary composer's return with orchestral arrangements
Level Highlights
- Grassland Groove - Rhythm-based platforming with musical synchronization
- Amiss Abyss - Stunning silhouette underwater level
- Windmill Hills - Dynamic rotating platforms and wind mechanics
- Rocket Rails - High-speed mine cart sequences
Critical Reception
Review Score: 83/100 (Metacritic Wii U), 86/100 (Switch) - Critical acclaim
Universally praised for its exceptional level design, gorgeous visuals, outstanding soundtrack, and perfect gameplay feel. Many critics called it the best 2D platformer of the generation.
Nintendo Switch Enhancements
The Switch version added:
- Funky Kong Mode - Easier difficulty option with Funky Kong
- Portable play capability
- Enhanced performance and loading times
Legacy
Tropical Freeze is widely regarded as one of the greatest platformers ever made, setting a new gold standard for the genre. Its influence can be seen in numerous indie platformers that followed.