Mario vs. Donkey Kong

85%
Game Brain Score Based on 221 reviews
  • graphics
  • gameplay
  • music
Mario vs. Donkey Kong Game Cover
Mario vs. Donkey Kong is a splendid remake. The updated visuals and quality-of-life improvements add plenty to this already-fun title. The puzzles are interesting and challenging, with plenty of variety to keep you hooked.

"Mario vs. Donkey Kong" is a single-player action game for Nintendo Switch, offering around 6 hours of playtime. In this game,Donkey Kong has stolen all the Mini-Mario toys from the factory, and it's up to Mario to chase after him and recover the toys. Players must solve puzzles and use their platforming skills to overcome obstacles and progress through each stage, with the option to engage in local co-op play. The game boasts over 24 levels of challenges, mini-games, and multiple endings based on the player's performance.

  • Nintendo Switch
Genres & TagsPlay Modes

Reviews

85%
Audience ScoreBased on 221 reviews
graphics14 positive mentions
stability2 negative mentions
  • The game features a well-crafted puzzle-platforming experience with over 130 levels, including new worlds and modes that enhance replayability.
  • The co-op mode adds a fun layer of gameplay, making it enjoyable for both casual gamers and families to play together.
  • The updated graphics and music provide a fresh and engaging experience, appealing to both fans of the original and newcomers.
  • Many players find the game too easy, especially in the early levels, which may lead to a lack of challenge and replay value.
  • The controls can feel clunky at times, leading to frustrating gameplay experiences, particularly during platforming sections.
  • Some reviewers feel the price point is too high for the amount of content offered, suggesting it may be better to wait for a sale.
  • graphics27 mentions

    The graphics of the game have received widespread praise for their beauty and clarity, with many reviewers highlighting the slick visual revamp and enhanced cutscenes that breathe new life into the classic titles. While some noted that certain background visuals could be bland, the overall aesthetic is considered a significant improvement, contributing to an engaging and enjoyable experience. The combination of updated graphics, catchy music, and well-crafted puzzles makes this a visually appealing game that fans of the franchise will appreciate.

    • “With overhauled graphics, music, and cutscenes, this revitalized classic is looking better than ever.”
    • “The visuals are very clean and the music is great!”
    • “Mario vs. Donkey Kong brings the classic GBA title back with new crisp graphics, but there has not been enough changes to the mechanics or controls to make this feel contemporary on the Switch.”
    • “Graphics are just so bland.”
    • “Background visuals are a bit bland; not a lot of truly new content.”
    • “Mario vs. Donkey Kong brings the classic GBA title back with new crisp graphics, but there have not been enough changes to the mechanics or controls to make this feel contemporary on the Switch.”
  • gameplay16 mentions

    The gameplay of the rebooted Mario vs. Donkey Kong features over 130 levels across two new worlds, introducing fresh environments, enemies, and mechanics, while allowing players to choose between classic and casual styles. However, some players find the controls clumsy and the gameplay frustrating at times, particularly with old-school mechanics that may not appeal to everyone. Overall, while the game retains its charm with enhanced graphics and nostalgic elements, it may feel simplistic and dated for contemporary audiences.

    • “Jump and climb your way through over 130 puzzling levels as Mario to retrieve the mini-Marios stolen by Donkey Kong. Overcome obstacles like spikes, lava, and falling bricks to make it to the end of each level. Revisit the original challenge in classic style, or try casual style for a more relaxed experience. Play through two new worlds, featuring new environments, enemies, and game mechanics. Join the action as Toad and work together in the newly-added co-op mode.”
    • “With enhanced graphics, fun gameplay, and beloved characters, as well as a catchy soundtrack and humorous in-game cutscenes, this is one awesome Nintendo Switch game that fans will not want to miss!”
    • “The reboot of the Game Boy Advance game definitely is polished to a mirror sheen in gameplay!”
    • “Really awful actual gameplay.”
    • “[controls feel clumsy at times, falling bricks are the worst, frustrating jump mechanics]”
    • “[guiding minis through a stage comes with a learning curve that can feel frustrating, the presence of a lives mechanic feels especially anachronistic and pointless]”
  • music15 mentions

    The music in the game has received widespread praise, with many reviewers highlighting its catchy, jazzy soundtrack that enhances the overall experience. The revitalized classic features well-crafted music arrangements that complement the gameplay and visuals, contributing to a fun and engaging atmosphere. Overall, the soundtrack is considered a standout element, adding personality and enjoyment to the game.

    • “With overhauled graphics, music, and cutscenes, this revitalized classic is looking better than ever.”
    • “The music and action are top notch, and the gameplay is intriguing and worth your time.”
    • “Mario vs. Donkey Kong's jazz-inspired soundtrack adds to the overall experience.”
  • story4 mentions

    The story in Classic Mario vs. DK is praised for its refreshing and engaging narrative, which complements the game's puzzle-solving mechanics. Players appreciate the combination of captivating graphics and a storyline that enhances the overall experience.

    • “I like the storyline and I love how much it is a thinking and puzzle-solving game!”
  • replayability4 mentions

    Overall, the game's replayability is mixed; while some players appreciate the well-crafted puzzles, fun mini-stages, and new time attack mode, others find the experience too short and easy, limiting its long-term appeal. The addition of co-op functionality and enhanced music and graphics offers some incentive to revisit, but many feel it ultimately lacks substantial replay value.

    • “Well-crafted puzzles that continue to entertain and challenge even after the credits roll.”
    • “Fun mini-Mario stages and DK boss battles.”
    • “Good replayability due to the new time attack mode and co-op functionality.”
    • “Not much replay value.”
    • “Unfortunately, the game is quite easy, and the entire experience ends too quickly, which may hamper replayability.”
    • “It is over far too quickly; the entire game is a bit too easy and lacks replayability aside from a basic time attack mode.”
  • stability2 mentions

    The game is praised for its exceptional stability at launch, with users reporting zero bugs or glitches, contributing to a seamless experience. Many feel that this level of polish makes it a standout title, especially considering its all-in-one package without additional DLC.

  • humor2 mentions

    Both the 1994 Donkey Kong Game Boy game and the 2004 Mario vs. Donkey Kong for Game Boy Advance are praised for their humor, particularly through engaging in-game cutscenes that add a lighthearted touch to the gameplay. The combination of beloved characters and a catchy soundtrack further enhances the comedic experience, making these titles enjoyable for fans.

    • “With enhanced graphics, fun gameplay, and beloved characters, as well as a catchy soundtrack and humorous in-game cutscenes, this is one awesome Nintendo Switch game that fans will not want to miss!”
  • monetization1 mentions

    Reviewers express disappointment with the monetization strategy, perceiving it as a cash grab by Nintendo rather than a genuine effort to create an engaging experience.

    • “The puzzles didn't do much for me; the whole experience just feels like a cash grab on Nintendo's part rather than something made with passion.”
Positive mentions (%)Positive
Neutral mentions (%)Neutral
Negative mentions (%)Negative

Critic Reviews

73% average critic score

Play time

6hMedian play time
6hAverage play time
6-6hSpent by most gamers
*Based on 1 analyzed playthroughs

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