Nintendo Updates Classic Character After Donkey Kong Revamp

Nintendo has unveiled a refreshed design for Diddy Kong, following similar updates given earlier this year to his longtime companion Donkey Kong.

Earlier in 2025, sharp-eyed Nintendo fans noticed subtle but noticeable modifications to Donkey Kong's classic appearance, visible in official artwork and prerelease footage from Mario Kart World.

Now through new promotional materials on Nintendo's website and displays at Licensing Expo 2025 in Las Vegas, we're seeing similar stylistic changes to Diddy Kong's look as well.

As reported by Nintendo Life, the updated design features slightly more expressive cartoon-like features - with rounder eyes and an enhanced, friendlier grin that gives Diddy more personality.

Attendees at the brand-focused Licensing Expo 2025 can view the revamped Diddy Kong (alongside Donkey Kong) in person, as shown in social media posts from visitor Cptn_Alex.

While Nintendo hasn't officially commented on the character design updates for both primates, many speculate these aesthetic refinements align more closely with their appearances in the blockbuster Super Mario Bros. Movie.

Even Princess Peach received similar treatment - her visual style was adjusted in the Switch game Princess Peach: Showtime! to better match her cinematic counterpart, as previously noted by Eurogamer.

Of course this post is popping off lmao. Here's a better look at the new render :)

via Nintendo booth @ Licensing Expo pic.twitter.com/QzxJOWs9gF

— CptnAlex (@Cptn_Alex) May 20, 2025

Donkey Kong will headline the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 title Donkey Kong Bananza. While Diddy Kong isn't confirmed for the roster yet, the presence of other Kong family members like Cranky Kong - combined with these visual refinements - strongly hints at his inclusion.

The character redesigns also suggest Nintendo may be preparing the Kongs for prominent roles in the announced Super Mario Bros. Movie sequel (reportedly titled Super Mario World), following Donkey Kong's major presence and Diddy's cameo in the first film.