Is Donkey Kong Bananza Coming to Switch 1?

Unfortunately, Donkey Kong Bananza isn’t available on the original Switch—it’s exclusive to the Switch 2. However, there’s still a way to enjoy the game through co-op play. To clarify, there is no version of the game that works on the original Switch, so don’t purchase it unless you have a Switch 2! If you know someone with a Switch 2 who owns the game, you can team up and play together for free using the GameShare feature.

Keep in mind, though, that there are some significant restrictions, and the experience won’t be the same as it is on a Nintendo Switch 2 since you can’t play as Donkey Kong. Below, I’ll walk you through the details of how to play Donkey Kong Bananza on a Switch 1 through co-op.

How to Play Donkey Kong Bananza on Switch 1 in Co-op

If you want to enjoy Donkey Kong Bananza on a Switch 1, you’ll need to have a friend who owns a Switch 2 with the game, as they will need to use the GameShare feature. To make this work, both consoles must be connected to the same local network. This usually means they need to be in the same room. However, if both players have Switch 2s, you can also play online.

Here’s how to set it up, assuming you meet the requirements:

1. The player on the Switch 2 needs to launch Donkey Kong Bananza and select “Co-op Play” from the main menu.
2. Choose “GameShare (Local User)”. This will bring you to another menu where you should wait for the other user to join.

3. The player on the Switch 1 should then open the GameShare app. The icon looks like a teal rectangle with curves coming in from the top.
4. Click “Join GameShare” and then “A Local User”. Your Switch 1 will start searching for a session. Join the Switch 2 player’s session when it appears on your screen to start playing DK Bananza on your Switch 1.

Keep in mind that if you’re joining a Donkey Kong Bananza session via GameShare on your Switch 1, you’ll only be able to play as Pauline since the host will be DK. As Pauline, you can ride on DK’s shoulders, using your powerful singing abilities to defeat foes and break objects. However, you can’t move independently, creating an on-rails shooter experience.

Also, there’s no standalone version of Donkey Kong Bananza available for purchase on Switch 1, so this local co-op option is your only way to play the game without a Switch 2.

If you opt for co-op mode, you might want to toggle the Donkey Kong Bananza Assist Mode for some extra help or fewer distractions. Don’t forget to check out our Donkey Kong Bananza tips and Donkey Kong Bananza review!