DKC Returns HD: Fans Protest Steep Price

The upcoming Donkey Kong Country Returns HD remake, a Switch port of the 2010 Wii title, has sparked controversy among fans due to its $60 price point. This enhanced version from Forever Entertainment S.A., launching January 16, 2025, is available for pre-order on the Nintendo eShop, but the cost has drawn significant criticism.

Reddit discussions highlight the perceived high price, with users comparing it to other Nintendo remasters, such as the $40 Metroid Prime remaster. While some argue that the Donkey Kong franchise boasts superior sales and brand recognition—bolstered by Donkey Kong's role in The Super Mario Bros. Movie and the upcoming Super Nintendo World expansion at Universal Studios Japan (delayed to late 2024)—others maintain that $60 is excessive.

Donkey Kong's enduring popularity, spanning 43 years since its creation by Shigeru Miyamoto, is undeniable. Previous Switch remakes of Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze and Mario vs. Donkey Kong were major commercial successes, mirroring the strong sales of classic Donkey Kong titles on the SNES and N64.

Despite the price backlash, Donkey Kong Country Returns HD, listed at 9 GB on the eShop (2.4 GB larger than the Tropical Freeze remake), is anticipated to perform well, continuing the franchise's legacy of strong sales.