Nintendo is fully embracing the redesigned Donkey Kong, first glimpsed by fans in the Mario Kart 9 gameplay shown during the Nintendo Switch 2 reveal. Donkey Kong’s iconic design, unchanged for decades and featured in titles like Mario Kart 8, Mario Tennis, and Donkey Kong Country Returns, is getting a significant makeover. Many believe the new look is inspired by the hugely successful The Super Mario Bros. Movie.

Initially seen only in Mario Kart 9, Nintendo has now unveiled a line of Donkey Kong merchandise showcasing this redesigned character. As highlighted by Nintendo Life, Reddit user cookiemaster221 shared images of these products, commenting, "History is being rewritten in front of our very eyes."

The merchandise reveals a friendlier Donkey Kong, notably with a softened brow replacing his previously furrowed expression. Online commentary reflects a mixed reaction. Some users likened the change to a "reverse Kirby treatment," moving from angry to chill. While some lament the loss of his signature intense gaze, others appreciate the new, more goofy appearance, suggesting it aims for a less aggressive aesthetic.

The merchandise provides a more detailed view of the redesign than the brief appearances in the Mario Kart 9 trailer. A more comprehensive look at the new Donkey Kong in action is expected in April during a Nintendo Direct focused on the Switch 2.

The Switch 2 reveal trailer itself offered limited details about the console's features, focusing primarily on its visual design. However, it confirmed backward compatibility, showcased a new button on the Joy-Cons, and seemingly validated theories regarding mouse functionality using the controller.