Nintendo has rolled out a sizeable complimentary patch for Donkey Kong Country Returns HD that changes how you can tackle stages. The update introduces Dixie Kong as a controllable partner, a new time-attack-style mode, and platform-specific boosts for Switch 2 owners, plus local sharing options for friends who don’t own the game.

  • Playable partner: Dixie Kong joins the roster, bringing her signature ponytail spin to help Donkey Kong achieve longer floats and extended aerial control; she requires Donkey Kong to remain as one half of the duo, so classic two-character swaps like a Diddy/Dixie pairing aren’t implemented.
  • Turbo Attack mode: A fresh challenge flips levels into high-speed runs where players race against the clock, testing reflexes and course knowledge in shortened, frantic versions of familiar stages.
  • Switch 2 enhancements: Owners on Nintendo’s next-gen hardware see graphical polish and reduced loading times, making the HD release more responsive and visually sharper on the newer system.
  • Local Game Share: The update enables Game Share, allowing a second player to join locally even if they don’t own a copy, simplifying couch co-op and drop-in play sessions.

Players can download the update at no charge; it adjusts both gameplay options and technical performance to broaden how the HD edition can be enjoyed.

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Source: Game Informer