Donkey Kong HD Credits Omit Original Developers

The upcoming release of Donkey Kong Country Returns HD on January 16, 2025, for the Nintendo Switch has stirred controversy due to the exclusion of the original developers from Retro Studios in the remastered game's credits. This decision mirrors Nintendo's previous actions with other remastered titles, drawing criticism from the development community and fans alike.

Nintendo Switch has become a formidable platform for retro gaming, thanks to its portability and an extensive library of classic games. The console has seen numerous remasters and remakes, such as the enhanced Super Mario RPG, the Advance Wars series, and the Famicom Detective Club titles, all of which have been refreshed for modern audiences. The Donkey Kong Country series is no exception, with Donkey Kong Country Returns HD set to join this roster.

However, pre-release reports from outlets like Nintendo Life have confirmed that the credits for Donkey Kong Country Returns HD only list the staff from Forever Entertainment, the studio responsible for porting and enhancing the game for the Switch, including content from the 3DS version. Retro Studios, the original developers of the 2010 Wii game, are notably absent from the full credits. Instead, a brief acknowledgment stating that the game is "Based on the work of the original development staff" is displayed.

Nintendo Omits Retro Studios From Donkey Kong Country Returns HD Credits

This move aligns with Nintendo's past practices of condensing credits in re-released titles on the Switch. In 2023, Zoid Kirsch, a former programmer and senior gameplay engineer at Retro Studios, expressed his disappointment with Nintendo's decision to exclude the full original credits from Metroid Prime Remastered. He felt "let down" by the omission of team members who were no longer at Retro Studios during the remaster's development. Other developers echoed his sentiments, labeling the exclusion of original teams from remaster credits as "bad practice."

The issue of crediting is a significant concern within the gaming industry, as credits play a crucial role in the career development of game developers. Recognizing the original teams in remastered titles is not only a professional courtesy but also a way to honor the years of dedication that went into creating these beloved games. Additionally, Nintendo has faced criticism for not crediting translators and imposing stringent non-disclosure agreements that restrict them from acknowledging their contributions to major franchises like The Legend of Zelda.

As more developers and fans voice their concerns over improper crediting practices, the pressure on publishers, including Nintendo, to amend their policies may grow. Ensuring proper recognition for all contributors remains a vital aspect of maintaining integrity and respect within the gaming community.