Nintendo Tweaks Another Classic Character Post-Donkey Kong Redesign: Best Look Revealed

Nintendo has recently unveiled an updated design for Diddy Kong, following a similar transformation for Donkey Kong earlier this year. Fans first noticed changes in Donkey Kong's appearance in official artwork and early footage of Mario Kart World.

The new look for Diddy Kong was showcased through artwork on Nintendo's website and at the Licensing Expo 2025 in Las Vegas. According to Nintendo Life, the updated Diddy Kong features a more cartoonish style, with rounder eyes and a more playful, friendly smile.

Photos from the Licensing Expo, shared by attendee Cptn_Alex on social media, also display the revamped Diddy and Donkey Kong designs. While Nintendo has not officially commented on these changes, they are believed to align with the characters' appearances in the successful The Super Mario Bros. Movie.

Even Princess Peach has undergone a slight redesign, with her appearance on the box of her Switch game, Princess Peach: Showtime!, resembling her movie counterpart, as noted by Eurogamer.

Image credit: Nintendo.Image credit: Nintendo.

Donkey Kong is set to star in the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 title, Donkey Kong Bananza. Although Diddy Kong's inclusion has not been confirmed, the updated design and the presence of other Kong family members like Cranky Kong suggest his likely involvement.

Additionally, the upcoming Super Mario Bros. Movie sequel, tentatively titled Super Mario World, is expected to feature more of Nintendo's iconic apes, including the newly redesigned Diddy Kong.

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