DKCR Returns HD: Fans Dismayed by Price Point

Fans express outrage over the price of the upcoming Donkey Kong Country Returns HD remake for the Nintendo Switch. This enhanced version of the 2010 Wii title, developed by Forever Entertainment S.A. and launching January 16, 2025, is currently available for pre-order on the Nintendo eShop. However, the $60 price tag has sparked significant backlash.

Reddit discussions highlight the perceived high cost, with users comparing it unfavorably to other Nintendo remasters, such as the $40 Metroid Prime remaster. While some argue Donkey Kong's superior brand recognition (bolstered by appearances in The Super Mario Bros. Movie and the upcoming Super Nintendo World expansion at Universal Studios Japan) justifies the higher price, others remain unconvinced. The delayed Super Nintendo World opening, originally slated for spring 2024, further fuels the debate.

Donkey Kong's enduring popularity, spanning 43 years since its creation by Shigeru Miyamoto, is undeniable. Previous Switch remakes of Donkey Kong titles, including Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze, achieved significant sales success. The franchise also boasts a strong history of best-selling titles on SNES and N64.

Despite the controversy surrounding its price, Donkey Kong Country Returns HD, weighing in at 9 GB (2.4 GB larger than the Tropical Freeze remake), is anticipated to perform well. The game's pre-order availability on the eShop suggests a significant level of interest, even amidst the ongoing price debate.