Players will jump from island to island as they explore a huge variety of new environments, from lush mangroves to burning savannahs and Donkey Kong’s frozen island. The game introduces a number of new features, such as the ability to swim, a dynamic camera that adds dimension and depth to the gorgeous on-screen action, and the ability to play the full game on the Wii U GamePad controller in off-TV play.

For the first time in the Donkey Kong Country series, players will be able to assume control of the fan-favorite Cranky Kong. Cranky joins Diddy Kong and Dixie Kong as one of Donkey Kong’s partners in the game.

The bearded Cranky Kong is very spry for his age, using his cane to bounce on dangerous objects like spikes. This ability helps him access areas other characters can’t reach. During single-player mode, Cranky rides on Donkey Kong’s back. In co-op multiplayer, a second player can control Cranky, Diddy or Dixie directly (an additional controller is required for multiplayer play, and is sold separately).