Donkey Kong 64 Coming to Nintendo Switch Online

Donkey Kong 64 is coming to Nintendo Switch Online next week, Nintendo has confirmed.

The legendary N64 platformer, originally released in 1999 and developed by famed British studio Rare, will be accessible on June 4 to any Switch or Switch 2 owner with an active Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscription. Donkey Kong 64 is known for its numerous levels filled with collectibles, utilization of the N64's Expansion Pak add-on, and for introducing the iconic DK Rap. Despite initial dislike, the DK Rap has gained a cult following and is featured in various media, including the Super Mario Bros. Movie and different Smash Bros. soundtracks. Nintendo's announcement for the game's Switch re-release incorporates the DK Rap as its music.

Donkey Kong 64 will be part of the collection of around 40 Nintendo 64 era games available through Nintendo Switch Online, joining classics like Super Mario 64, Paper Mario, and The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. This news comes after the recent launch of the highly acclaimed DK platformer Donkey Kong Bananza for Nintendo Switch 2, with speculations rising about a potential Donkey Kong film amidst Nintendo's upcoming Mario movie spinoff. Interestingly, fans have observed that this announcement coincides with the 10th anniversary of Harambe's passing, adding a unique touch to the reveal.