The banana hoard is back.

Donkey Kong 64 is officially joining Nintendo Switch Online, bringing one of the most iconic and chaotic N64 platformers to modern players.

TL;DR
  • Donkey Kong 64 arrives June 4 on Switch Online
  • Part of the Nintendo 64 Expansion Pack
  • Features all five playable Kongs
  • Launch coincides with Switch 2 anniversary
  • Hints at a bigger DK comeback

Donkey Kong 64 Finally Comes to Switch Online

Nintendo has confirmed that Donkey Kong 64 will join the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack library on June 4.

That means players can once again jump into:

  • Massive 3D levels
  • Collectathon madness
  • Five playable Kongs with unique abilities

For many fans, this is one of the most requested N64 titles – and now it’s finally playable on modern hardware.

Why Donkey Kong 64 Still Matters

Released back in 1999, Donkey Kong 64 was:

  • The first full 3D DK adventure
  • One of Rare’s most ambitious platformers
  • A defining example of the N64 collectathon era

Until recently, it was also the only 3D Donkey Kong game, making it a key piece of Nintendo history.

Worth knowing: Characters like Lanky Kong and Chunky Kong have still not returned in modern DK games.

What You Get in the Switch Version

As part of the Switch Online N64 catalog, the game includes:

  • Save states
  • Online play for supported modes
  • Classic controls via Joy-Con or N64 controller

It’s essentially the original experience with modern conveniences.

Perfect Timing – DK Is Making a Comeback

This release isn’t random.

Nintendo is clearly building momentum around the franchise:

  • Donkey Kong Bananza (2025) revived 3D DK gameplay
  • DK continues to appear in movies and crossovers
  • Now the classic returns to NSO

This feels like a full-on Donkey Kong revival.

What’s Next for Nintendo?

With June packed full of gaming events, fans are expecting more announcements soon.

Potential reveals include:

  • A new Nintendo Direct
  • Star Fox remake updates
  • Rumored Zelda: Ocarina of Time remake
  • New 3D Mario or Smash Bros.

Nothing is confirmed yet – but the timing suggests Nintendo is gearing up for a big summer.

Pro tip: If you’ve never played Donkey Kong 64, prepare for a LOT of collectibles – this game doesn’t hold back.

Final Thoughts

Donkey Kong 64 joining Switch Online is more than just nostalgia – it’s a signal.

Nintendo is actively bringing back its legacy titles while pushing new entries forward.

And for players?

It’s the perfect chance to revisit one of the most chaotic and memorable platformers ever made.