User Score
8.6

Generally favorable reviews- based on 767 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Negative: 49 out of 767
Buy Now
Buy on

Review this game

  1. Your Score
    0 out of 10
    Rate this:
    • 10
    • 9
    • 8
    • 7
    • 6
    • 5
    • 4
    • 3
    • 2
    • 1
    • 0
    • 0
  1. Submit
  2. Check Spelling
  1. Aug 25, 2023
    10
    This game is the absolute master class among jump'n runs. Perfectly thought out level design. Always fitting and masterfully composed music. Visually stunning. The game is so full of ideas and creativity, there's always something happening in the background, models created just for this one situation, and so on. There is a thought behind every level. I'm a big fan of platformers and I canThis game is the absolute master class among jump'n runs. Perfectly thought out level design. Always fitting and masterfully composed music. Visually stunning. The game is so full of ideas and creativity, there's always something happening in the background, models created just for this one situation, and so on. There is a thought behind every level. I'm a big fan of platformers and I can say that few games can compete at this high level.
    Donkey Kong Country Tropical Freeze makes other Switch 2D platformers like New Super Mario Bros U look cheap and forgettable. A must have for any fan of this genre.
    Expand
  2. Jul 21, 2023
    6
    I love and hate this game at the same time. This game has beautiful visual, creative platform design and good animation; however, the game difficulty is not fair, it seems that there's alway one solution to solve the platform challenge, like you could only touch the rope by only jumping the highest point, sometimes you need to roll the furthest to far jump in order to reach ceetain movingI love and hate this game at the same time. This game has beautiful visual, creative platform design and good animation; however, the game difficulty is not fair, it seems that there's alway one solution to solve the platform challenge, like you could only touch the rope by only jumping the highest point, sometimes you need to roll the furthest to far jump in order to reach ceetain moving platform. Don't get me wrong, I like platformer game, but this game isn't fair enough in term of difficulty and learning curve. It's a frustrating game. Expand
  3. Jul 16, 2023
    8
    Good game, but it doesn't really innovate from previous DK games. When will they dare to make a full 3D Donkey Kong game?
  4. Jul 24, 2020
    10
    Best platformer game on the switch right now. This game is amazing but it sucks that it is underated
  5. Jul 2, 2023
    5
    Simply the best plattform game I have ever played. Amazing graphics, excellent controls, outstanding music, challenging but not frustrating, original enemies and bosses, diverse levels. 10/10
  6. May 15, 2023
    9
    it is a great game, and it was definitely time for another dk game and a blast from the past.
    And not to forget there is FUNKY KONG!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
  7. Apr 30, 2023
    10
    This is the definition of a perfect 2d platform, it has great level design, it is creative in all aspects (mechanics, locations, enemies), it has great music and it offers a great challenge that will keep the most dedicated players for over 40 hours. The best 2d platformer of all time
  8. Apr 15, 2023
    10
    Best platformer ever created in the history of gaming on any console. Must play if you love games.
  9. Mar 12, 2023
    4
    Presentation and level design are great, but man these controls just suck. Way too slow and unresponsive for the challenges the game throws at you; correcting course is almost impossible, which is BS because some of the obstacles in e.g. the barrel sections (which control like a** anyway) change position so fast that accurately responding is almost impossible. Not a fan of this dumb "everyPresentation and level design are great, but man these controls just suck. Way too slow and unresponsive for the challenges the game throws at you; correcting course is almost impossible, which is BS because some of the obstacles in e.g. the barrel sections (which control like a** anyway) change position so fast that accurately responding is almost impossible. Not a fan of this dumb "every action is mapped to two buttons" scheme either, I'm not f**king 4 years old. There are just four actions in this game but one of them has to be mapped to a shoulder button and two of them take up the same button?? Absolute nonsense.

    And this isn't just about difficulty or "gitting gud", either, as I have no problem with difficult platformers in general, but if a game demands pinpoint accuracy and fast reactions from me, then the controls should be up to the challenge as well (Celeste is a great example of this), which they're simply not here IMO. Boss battles also drag on for waaaaaaay too long, even if you do everything right.
    Expand
  10. Mar 11, 2023
    10
    For me it’s 10 in its type. Nintendo has no competition in platformer games. Textures and resolution isn’t great but animations are amazing. Level design is astonishing. Challenges, are difficult but not frustrating. Great, great game and pure fun. After being tired of playing movies-like games on ps5 I finally sold it, and went back to Swich. Nintendo understands what game is all about,For me it’s 10 in its type. Nintendo has no competition in platformer games. Textures and resolution isn’t great but animations are amazing. Level design is astonishing. Challenges, are difficult but not frustrating. Great, great game and pure fun. After being tired of playing movies-like games on ps5 I finally sold it, and went back to Swich. Nintendo understands what game is all about, pure gameplay and minimum bs Expand
  11. Mar 4, 2023
    10
    The best 2D platformer I have ever played. Beating this game makes me crave a Donkey Kong Returns rerelease.
  12. Feb 17, 2023
    7
    It's a Donkey Kong game but control and feel nothing like the Donkey Kong Country games for the Super Nintendo. This feels closer to The Donkey Kong Bongo Games from the GameCube and I think it's really over hyped. I didn't like it and I usually love all Nintendo games. It's not bad but the controls I don't like, it's not a Country game, and doesn't hold a candle stick to the SNES originals
  13. Jan 25, 2023
    9
    With tight platforming action, colorful visuals and an earned sense of challenging fun, the Donkey Kong Country series hardly has seen better entries than this.
  14. Jan 22, 2023
    10
    Donkey Kong Tropical Freeze is my favorite platformer of all-time. It's level design is outstanding, bringing back David Wise to compose the soundtrack was a smart move, it's not so hard like Donkey Kong Country Returns. Everything in Tropical Freeze is amazing and Retro Studios learned from their mistakes that they made in Country Returns. The only platformer that I think is can competeDonkey Kong Tropical Freeze is my favorite platformer of all-time. It's level design is outstanding, bringing back David Wise to compose the soundtrack was a smart move, it's not so hard like Donkey Kong Country Returns. Everything in Tropical Freeze is amazing and Retro Studios learned from their mistakes that they made in Country Returns. The only platformer that I think is can compete with Tropical Freeze is Diddy's Side Quest but even than, Tropical Freeze still does things better than Diddy's Side Quest. Expand
  15. Jan 17, 2023
    9
    The graphics are great and I love the addition of Dixie to the cast of characters!
  16. Jan 8, 2023
    9
    Absolutely amazing game. Fun and creative levels, banger soundtrack, stunning visuals, and awesome gameplay. Hopefully the DK games in the future will take notes from this one.
  17. Jan 6, 2023
    10
    Masterpiece in every meaning of the word. It balances difficulty with beauty and music at every point, imploring you to focus and engage all your senses at once, in a way I have never seen in a 2D platformer. The moment to moment gameplay within a level is fantastic, with multiple rewarding secrets hidden throughout, shooting off into different areas constantly, and the precision andMasterpiece in every meaning of the word. It balances difficulty with beauty and music at every point, imploring you to focus and engage all your senses at once, in a way I have never seen in a 2D platformer. The moment to moment gameplay within a level is fantastic, with multiple rewarding secrets hidden throughout, shooting off into different areas constantly, and the precision and timing in your movement that is home to every platformer. Outside of individual levels, it never gets boring, introducing new concepts, keeping the game fresh till the very last level. Every stage has been crafted with love, and I find myself just stopping at so many points and admiring the artwork. The game has that about it you see, the thrill of speeding through a level but also instills a guilt when you don't appreciate every detail. You really have to step back and appreciate these diamonds. A perfect game. Expand
  18. Jan 5, 2023
    10
    In my opinion this is the greatest 2d platformer of all time. With games like Celeste, Sonic Mania, and Super Mario Bros 3 it's totally debatable, but to put this game into that conversation even is saying something. The controls may feel a little loose at first, but once you get the hang of things the Kongs feel buttery smooth to control. Level design is immaculate in this game andIn my opinion this is the greatest 2d platformer of all time. With games like Celeste, Sonic Mania, and Super Mario Bros 3 it's totally debatable, but to put this game into that conversation even is saying something. The controls may feel a little loose at first, but once you get the hang of things the Kongs feel buttery smooth to control. Level design is immaculate in this game and enemies are perfectly placed where you can get an amazing flow when going through levels. Because of that, replaying the game will only show off more of the strengths than before. This game is also a great speedrunning game so if you are into that community, it's one of the best out there. The music by David Wise is so good that I would say it's worth the $60 price tag (Hey, you also get a whole bonus game attached with the soundtrack). I’m happy that this game was ported to switch where more people can experience this amazing game. If you like platformers, you will adore this game. Expand
  19. Dec 20, 2022
    6
    The bad: The difficulty goes beyond challenging at times and forces the player to do trial and error to complete many of the levels. The bosses are fun but also incredibly frustrating. The game is too short, 6 main worlds for a $60 game that can be completed in 10 hours?

    The good: graphics are amazing and the level design is really good. The new Funky mode is also a plus. Overall a
    The bad: The difficulty goes beyond challenging at times and forces the player to do trial and error to complete many of the levels. The bosses are fun but also incredibly frustrating. The game is too short, 6 main worlds for a $60 game that can be completed in 10 hours?

    The good: graphics are amazing and the level design is really good. The new Funky mode is also a plus.

    Overall a weak installment and seems to be the reason Nintendo has not made a new DK game since. Bring Back K Rool!
    Expand
  20. Dec 17, 2022
    6
    This is a good game you should check out but in my opinion some design choices and technical issues spoil the overall experience. First and foremost many levels seem to be almost identical to each other and somehow lack identity, I know that this is something subjective but I find that the levels and worlds are kind of generic and not a product of real inspiration like in the classicThis is a good game you should check out but in my opinion some design choices and technical issues spoil the overall experience. First and foremost many levels seem to be almost identical to each other and somehow lack identity, I know that this is something subjective but I find that the levels and worlds are kind of generic and not a product of real inspiration like in the classic masterpiece Donkey Kong Country 2. Graphics are very good and although music is ok it sadly also has this generic touch in most of the themes...The second thing I noticed is the sheer difficulty of the game. Although it was cool at times to finish a difficult level I quickly found out that the fun factor had been lost during the process of memorizing the patterns and playing the same sections of a level over and over.....Don't get me wrong this is a good game but some sections are so insidiously designed and the game is so unforgiving that in the end once you finish the level all you want to do is stop playing because you are already fatigued and annoyed from trying. Donkey feels heavy to control, is not so responsive and his companions play unfortunately a rather passive role adding only 2 extra lives and a special ability in complete contrast to the old DKC games where every companion played a very active and important role to the experience. Overall an ok game if you like trial and error but nothing special.... Expand
  21. Dec 11, 2022
    10
    This is a fun game especially if you like side scroller that are linear but challenging.
  22. Nov 27, 2022
    10
    One word: MASTERPICE.fun,sometimes hard and have a Lot of repleyability.DK is Peak gaming.
  23. Oct 14, 2022
    10
    deze game heeft alles dat Donkey Kong Country Returns heeft en dan nog veel meer
  24. Aug 26, 2022
    9
    The attention to detail in each level is spectacular. This game is hard and I'm glad they introduced a new Funky mode for people who want to take it easy playing this game. The colour palette was great and went well with the level design. The variation in the level design from tropical forests to oceans to African Savannah was very creative.
  25. Aug 26, 2022
    10
    this game is a instant classic for switch owners, its so good on so many ways
  26. Aug 2, 2022
    9
    Hlkgkfkfifkfkgifkfkfkkfkgkfifkflglfkfkfkfkfkglglfkffkfkfkgkfkckgkfkgkfkkfkgkgkkfkfgilgig
  27. Jun 30, 2022
    10
    this game has not many stages but is very fun and good i love it til the end
  28. Jun 28, 2022
    10
    I slept on this game for way too long. Best 2D platformer I've ever played.
  29. May 21, 2022
    9
    One of the best 2D platformers I have ever played. Smooth controls, perfect level design, incredibly good soundtrack and stunning visuals with dynamic background in each level . I highly recommend it but beware, it's challenging.
  30. May 12, 2022
    8
    Beautiful game, quiet hard but still fun.. good for handheld platform such as Switch
  31. Apr 30, 2022
    10
    One of the best 2D platformers in the history of video games, nothing more nothing less. Each level has a quality level-design and a unique theme, the gameplay is excellent, the music is excellent (thanks, Favid Wise), and the difficulty is present and well balanced. Even the water levels aren't annoying. Admittedly, some buddies are still missing, but the game stands on its own.
  32. Apr 13, 2022
    9
    A great 2D platformer. It has that perfect difficulty where it not to hard and to easy. The levels in the game are also incredibly detailed and it also has a great soundtrack.
  33. Feb 8, 2022
    9
    PALI_CRITIC: 93/100

    List of my favourite games: #4

    best 2d platform of aöö time
  34. Jan 29, 2022
    9
    Fantastic 2D platformer with enough depth, charm, and challenge to last a long time.
  35. Dec 26, 2021
    10
    One of the best games I have ever played. The level design is insane, the backgrounds are amazing, and the music is one of the best ever. If you like 2D jump and runs, this game is perfect for you
  36. Nov 8, 2021
    1
    Нет Русского языка. Больше минусов и плюсов для меня нет. Брал для ребенка, почти сразу забросил.
  37. Sep 8, 2021
    9
    The final boss in this game is not climatic at all. It kind of sucks, and there’s 6 worlds instead of 8, which makes it shorter than Country Returns. Anyways, these are the two thing holding this amazing game back from a 10. Everything else is done better than so many of Nintendo’s modern 2D platformers.
  38. Aug 24, 2021
    10
    Quite possibly the best 2D platformer I’ve ever played, Tropical Freeze has incredible graphics, controls, and level design, as well as having the perfect difficulty for a game like this.
  39. Jul 29, 2021
    8
    With interesting level gimmicks, strong level theming, and subtle storytelling via background and sometimes even foreground elements of stages, Tropical Freeze is an incredibly well-crafted platforming experience. While I don't think that this was entirely my type of game given my frustration with the difficulty at times, I can't deny the talent that everyone involved in this projectWith interesting level gimmicks, strong level theming, and subtle storytelling via background and sometimes even foreground elements of stages, Tropical Freeze is an incredibly well-crafted platforming experience. While I don't think that this was entirely my type of game given my frustration with the difficulty at times, I can't deny the talent that everyone involved in this project needed to have had to create such a visually and mechanically cohesive game. Expand
  40. Jul 17, 2021
    8
    This is a tough and annoying platformer, that happens to be highly enjoyable. The levels are expertly designed, allowing you to zip through them or sometimes play at a methodical pace. A nice touch is all of the levels can be completed without the aid of another Kong.

    Donkey Kong’s move set is minimal and the challenge mostly comes from the platforming itself. As tough as the game is,
    This is a tough and annoying platformer, that happens to be highly enjoyable. The levels are expertly designed, allowing you to zip through them or sometimes play at a methodical pace. A nice touch is all of the levels can be completed without the aid of another Kong.

    Donkey Kong’s move set is minimal and the challenge mostly comes from the platforming itself. As tough as the game is, it is fair. The classic vehicle levels adds variety, but the highlights are the “relic” levels. These are unlockable, extended levels with numerous obstacles that will test your skills, patience, and reflexes to the limit. They must be finished in one go or you restart from the beginning, but are immensely satisfying once completed.

    This game was slightly too long and will often drive you crazy. But, it is rewarding, has a lot of charm, a nice soundtrack, and challenging platforming that shouldn’t be missed.
    Expand
  41. Jul 16, 2021
    10
    for the voice acting alone, this games deserves a 10/10. don't eeeven get me started on the storyline.
  42. May 29, 2021
    6
    This game is just too short for AAA game price... i make it in just 5-7h...
  43. Apr 27, 2021
    10
    This game can keep up with its precursor DKCR which isn‘t done easily. Following the same formula for success, but with new exciting level design and music. The reason this game is a 10 and not a 9 is the 3rd World/Island. The savanna has amazing soundtrack, level design, character design and an incredible atmosphere. Simply a great game.
  44. Apr 25, 2021
    7
    It's pretty good. I mean, I know everyone says it's amazing and all, but it was just fine for me, sorry. Still good, tho.
  45. Apr 22, 2021
    10
    Wonderful music, omg! I can listen to them all my life! The levels are standalone too good to be true! The ability to play different characters with dk is fabulous and the game has alot of charm. Amazing video game in every aspect
  46. Apr 15, 2021
    9
    The sound track is awesome, the graphics are great (considering its a 2d platformer on the switch), the level design and uniqueness between worlds and even levels is astonishing. Probably the best (not favourite, but best) 2d platformer I've played, just ahead of it's predecessor in Donkey Kong: Country Returns. That being said, I can't give this game a 9 because the controls are prettyThe sound track is awesome, the graphics are great (considering its a 2d platformer on the switch), the level design and uniqueness between worlds and even levels is astonishing. Probably the best (not favourite, but best) 2d platformer I've played, just ahead of it's predecessor in Donkey Kong: Country Returns. That being said, I can't give this game a 9 because the controls are pretty annoying, and it's not the games fault! The game is only available on switch (obviously, it's Nintendo) so you should expect the controls to be pretty bad. DK and the pals themselves move smoothly, especially in water which was a nice surprise, but the actual buttons I'm not a fan of. I think this game would work better the way PS4 and XBOX games work, each button has an individual function instead of 2 different buttons both doing 5 things at once... Expand
  47. Apr 12, 2021
    10
    The game's title contains the word Freeze, but it has been a long time a platformer made me sweat like this one.
    Until now it's the best game I played on the Switch, which I got last January. The graphics are magnificent, the animation fluid, the music organic and the controls intuitive and precise.
    If you have a Switch (or a WiiU) and don't have a copy of this game yet, go get it!
  48. Mar 31, 2021
    10
    This game is fun, I like the swimming mechanics, the gameplay is great for a video game like this one. The enemies are amazing with just looking at them, the difficulty is awesome and It is great to have it on a library.
  49. Mar 7, 2021
    9
    dk freeze

    pros
    great graphics
    similar to snes dk country
    game saved my life for at least one year
    good themes
    even the first level was very enjoyable

    cons
    very hard [should not be 11/10 hard for a nintendo game]
    dk is a bit slow

    enemies are redeeming
  50. Feb 28, 2021
    7
    Una boccata di aria fresca rispetto al Country returns, Dk Tropical Freeze tenta di ricreare la magia dei Kremlin introducendo una nuova banda di nemici vichinghi, sicuramente portando con se un po più di carattere rispetto al titolo per wii. Purtroppo il gioco ha una meccanica cooperativa che porta il giocatore più esperto ad avanzare nei livelli mentre il secondo giocatore continua aUna boccata di aria fresca rispetto al Country returns, Dk Tropical Freeze tenta di ricreare la magia dei Kremlin introducendo una nuova banda di nemici vichinghi, sicuramente portando con se un po più di carattere rispetto al titolo per wii. Purtroppo il gioco ha una meccanica cooperativa che porta il giocatore più esperto ad avanzare nei livelli mentre il secondo giocatore continua a subire rimanendo indietro, inoltre è pieno di morti istantanee date dal non riuscire a vedere il pericolo imminente, molto spesso si cade nel vuoto senza accorgersi che il pavimento non è stabile. Buon gioco ma non al livello della trilogia classica. Expand
  51. Feb 17, 2021
    10
    Greatest 2D platformer ever created, we need more DKC games. If this game didn't exist, Rayman Legends would be the best 2D platformer but alas.
  52. Feb 2, 2021
    7
    Tropical Freeze is one of these games that has gained a cult following after it - supposedly - was panned by critics and is nowadays hailed as one of the best 2D platformers of all time. After all, this is a triple A game coming from a studio that consistently has developed great titles such as the masterpiece that is Metroid Prime and DKC Returns. The problem is, as much as I want to loveTropical Freeze is one of these games that has gained a cult following after it - supposedly - was panned by critics and is nowadays hailed as one of the best 2D platformers of all time. After all, this is a triple A game coming from a studio that consistently has developed great titles such as the masterpiece that is Metroid Prime and DKC Returns. The problem is, as much as I want to love this game... I just can't.

    One of the best aspects of Tropical Freeze is without a doubt the world building. Each level is a joy to behold. The game consists of seven worlds - six regular and one unlockable - and they all look gorgeous. Especially world three in the savannah and world five with a fruit factory as a theme are some of the best pieces of level design I have seen in the entire series. Each level is characterized by how interactive it is, the level is literally built up or destroyed before your very eyes. In the fruit factory slices of fruit come and go when you progress through the level. Backgrounds are really well animated and each level feels vivid and organic. From the burning savannah in Scorch 'n Torch to a chase scene with a giant octupus in Irate Eight, each level is a masterclass in level design.

    This is extended with a soundtrack composed by David Wise. Wise is a fan favorite who also composed the magnificent soundtracks of DKC 1 and 2. Wise outdid himself with a soundtrack that surpasses the soundtrack of DKC1 and stands on equal footing with the soundtrack of DKC 2. Just go to Youtube and listen to the ten best songs of Tropical Freeze. I will ensure you that you'll like the music. Wise mostly composed an original soundtrack that fits the game superbly. The savannah is upbeat, windmills have a more calm character and the factories feel like a frantic place. In some places you will find some remixes with Aquatic Ambiance as the highlight of the game. When it comes to presentation this game is top of its league.

    But then there's the gameplay and unfortunately it is here that the game falls short. The game is really hard, but that's not a bad sign. On the contrary, most gamers will appreciate a challenging 2D platformer. The thing is however that Tropical Freeze is challenging for all the wrong reasons and with counter-intuitive gameplay as the main culprit. You see, each 2D platformer has an 'ideal path' you want to follow. In the DKC series this has been marked by bananas since the mid ninetees. If you follow this path in a regular cadence it's only a matter of seconds before you will be punished. Platforms will appear or disappear all of a sudden, enemies throw random things at you, you're hindered by slow moving objects, etc.

    A good example is the end of Irate Eight. In this level you're chased by a giant octopus and in the end you need to evade falling rocks. The bananas mark the ideal path, but if you follow them you're sure to be hit by a falling rock. One can call this challenging, I call it counter-intuitive. Another example is Fruity Factory where at one point a number of platforms appear in a very frantic way and one can barely keep up with the pace. On one moment you need to go back to land on a platform while everything up until then has built up on the right part of the screen. Again, it's indeed challenging, but I don't see it as a good gameplay mechanic. Tropical Freeze is full of these moments.

    There were also plenty of occassions where I died more than twenty times, but it was my own fault. I wasn't skilled enough and Tropical Freeze didn't play with my mind. These are my most enjoyable moments with the game. My skills are put to the test here. Unfortunately this is in the minority of cases. Playing Tropical Freeze is a trial and error experience based on memorisation, rarely on skills alone. And this is my biggest gripe with the game.

    The most fun levels in the game are without a doubt the levels where these counter-intuitive mechanics are reduced to a minimum such as the mine cart levels. Progressing in these levels is more based on skills and therefore much more enjoyable. The pacing is also set on a fixed rhythm resulting in an uninterrupted and fluent flow.

    The pacing of Tropical Freeze is also highly irregular. Tropical Freeze is supposed to be a fast-paced game - otherwise there wouldn't be a time attack mode available - yet gameplay mechanics are designed in such a way that it's sometimes fast, sometimes painfully slow. There are plenty of moments in the game where you need to stop to pull something from the ground or your pace is blocked by a very slow moving object like the snowflakes in world six. Waiting is not always synonym for boring gameplay, but it just breaks the flow of a level. One can argue that you need to 'git gud' but that's something you can say about almost any game. Rayman Legends is also a difficult game, but never feels cheap and was always fun. Tropical Freeze only on some occassions.
    Expand
  53. Jan 31, 2021
    10
    Best 2D platformer of all time. The difficulty is perfect. Every level is completely unique and amazing. And even though the game has less levels then a game like New super Mario bros U. The longer levels, level design, amount of collectables, and difficulty, easily makes up for it. Even if you want an easier experience the power ups in the shop can make the game a lot easier if youBest 2D platformer of all time. The difficulty is perfect. Every level is completely unique and amazing. And even though the game has less levels then a game like New super Mario bros U. The longer levels, level design, amount of collectables, and difficulty, easily makes up for it. Even if you want an easier experience the power ups in the shop can make the game a lot easier if you want. This is a must buy for any fan of 2D platformers and honestly. Your making a wrong call if you are choosing another first party nintendo 2D platformer on switch Expand
  54. Jan 18, 2021
    10
    It is the best game I have played on Switch, and my library of games is pretty big.
  55. Dec 17, 2020
    10
    wow, this game is best platformer ever i playing.. hope there is sequel game for Donkey Kong Country in future years
  56. Dec 15, 2020
    1
    This game is trash the controls are clunky and stiff, The boss battles are over hyped and are just dodge this until you get a chance to attack(x3) the platforming would be fun but because of the stiff controls it is not. The soundtrack is unmemorable and bad. Finally the price tag is stupid for a port of a game from wii U of this low quality. There are so many better games you could buyThis game is trash the controls are clunky and stiff, The boss battles are over hyped and are just dodge this until you get a chance to attack(x3) the platforming would be fun but because of the stiff controls it is not. The soundtrack is unmemorable and bad. Finally the price tag is stupid for a port of a game from wii U of this low quality. There are so many better games you could buy with this money don`t get this one. Expand
  57. Dec 4, 2020
    10
    Best Nintendo 2D-Platformer I've played in a while. DKC Returns was amazing, but this is just breathtaking. Though it has a cartoony style, it looks beautiful. Gameplay is super fun and it feels great. The level design is pure genius, every level feels unique. Soundtrack is good, but the Temple theme is DKC perfection. We need more DKC games, I need them!
  58. Nov 12, 2020
    5
    Mediocre sequel

    I don't fully understand those reviews saying that this game is the 2D platform ever developed or a masterpiece. I have played DK1 & DK2 not so long ago and they are still great games. Not to mention other great SNES' 2D platformers like Super Mario World, Yoshi's Island, Mega Man X, or Super Castlevania IV. As pros, this game has impressive art and good animations.
    Mediocre sequel

    I don't fully understand those reviews saying that this game is the 2D platform ever developed or a masterpiece. I have played DK1 & DK2 not so long ago and they are still great games. Not to mention other great SNES' 2D platformers like Super Mario World, Yoshi's Island, Mega Man X, or Super Castlevania IV.

    As pros, this game has impressive art and good animations. Boss fights are it top notch. And, of course, in nice to play with Donkey Kong as our heart hero from the old days.

    However, it is clearly obvious that this game was developed by a team that didn't understand the essence of prior games of the series. Game mechanics are not well designed, sometimes it's difficult because it required skill development, just because it's has clumsy controls and you have to try and try to achieve advance. Game design experience doesn't really dare you to explore the world, this was one the most important thing of prior installments. Music is only a remix, no matter that Davis Wise is still in the project. Additionally, bonus games are repetitive and uninspiring. And finally, main characters as Diddy & Dixies were relegated as mere Donkey's accessories, not to mention that they completely erase secondary characters and only keep Rinho, with this the game lost a complete set of alternative game mechanics.

    It's not a terrible game, indeed it could be enjoyable. However, really far away to be a need to be played or a must-have.
    Expand
  59. Oct 25, 2020
    9
    Es bastante entretenido. A pesar de que lo único nuevo que tiene es un modo fácil no es malo. Tiene muy buenos gráficos, las mecánicas del juego son interesantes y es un plataformero muy exigente y justo.
  60. Oct 24, 2020
    9
    Tropical Freeze is a fantastic sequel to a fantastic predecessor. Retro Studios have outdone themselves with this entry by making it look bigger, more varied, so gorgeous, and that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Calling this game good would be an understatement, because not only is this game beautiful to look at, it also plays super amazingly! Starring Donkey, Diddy, Dixie, Cranky, andTropical Freeze is a fantastic sequel to a fantastic predecessor. Retro Studios have outdone themselves with this entry by making it look bigger, more varied, so gorgeous, and that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Calling this game good would be an understatement, because not only is this game beautiful to look at, it also plays super amazingly! Starring Donkey, Diddy, Dixie, Cranky, and Funky, you’ll explore all kinds of islands on your way back to DK Island.
    For those who enjoy mascot platformers and just great fun in general, then this game should belong in your library.
    Expand
  61. Oct 15, 2020
    8
    Graphics and level design were spot on. Bosses were a little on the easy side as they often are in Nintendo games. Player movement didn’t feel as sharp as in other platformers I’ve enjoyed more(Rayman Legends, Guacamelee, Super Meat Boy, Cuphead).
  62. Oct 12, 2020
    10
    A defining entry in the series and genre as a whole, one of the most refined 2D platformers ever made. The visuals are similarly excellent, as is David Wise's masterful score.
  63. Sep 8, 2020
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Great game with, for the most part, fair challenge, though controls are a tad too floaty which can lead to dumb deaths sometimes, also, the reward for finding all the mysterious relics is underwhelming, but otherwise - quality product Expand
  64. Aug 31, 2020
    10
    This game is a masterpiece upon 2d platformers. One of the best games I've played. The atmosphere beautiful and every platform has a purpose. This is a must buy.
  65. Aug 22, 2020
    8
    Some of the best level design I have ever seen in a 2d platformer, beautiful music. great bosses. but a little bit expensive for a Wii u port
  66. Aug 20, 2020
    10
    The best platformer on Switch. This puts Odyssey to shame. Unfortunately never beat the original DK games since I never got them as a kid, but this made me go back and enjoy them. Had no expectations going in and left blown away. Don’t deprive yourself of this masterpiece.
  67. Aug 9, 2020
    3
    This game is incredibly frustrating in the sense that it's just trial by error with incredible difficulty spikes incurred at random intervals in the levels. Rather than a natural progression in difficulty like the original SNES games, this one just laces it in at seemingly arbitrary times, that can only be realized when you are in front of the controls and realize that it's not skillThis game is incredibly frustrating in the sense that it's just trial by error with incredible difficulty spikes incurred at random intervals in the levels. Rather than a natural progression in difficulty like the original SNES games, this one just laces it in at seemingly arbitrary times, that can only be realized when you are in front of the controls and realize that it's not skill based, but trial by error. They give you balloons for "lives" but when they run out, the game just gives you more - or lets you skip levels - because they seem to unofficially recognize the games lack of cohesiveness in the gameplay. The other big gripe I would say, is the art direction is really uninspired compared to the original. The Kremlings are gone, and so is graphically any of the original artistic direction in the level styling. It's like Disney took over the franchise and ripped out the soul of the game. Not worth the 59.99 at all. Nintendo, this was a piss poor job for the greatness of the Donkey Kong franchise. Every time I pick up this game to retry, I end up wanting to throw it against the wall in frustration. Expand
  68. Jul 25, 2020
    4
    The normal difficulty level of this game is stupidly high. Who is the retarde.d level designer who did the levels?
  69. Jul 23, 2020
    10
    Un juego excelente tiene muy buena jugabilidad y dificultad, en cada mundo puedes desbloquear niveles secretos que tienen una dificultad mayor que el resto del juego, si se te dificulta mucho tiene el modo funky en el que juegas con uno de los monos que tiene más habilidades y por tanto es más fácil, una vez terminado el juego desbloquea el modo difícil lo que genera que sea un títuloUn juego excelente tiene muy buena jugabilidad y dificultad, en cada mundo puedes desbloquear niveles secretos que tienen una dificultad mayor que el resto del juego, si se te dificulta mucho tiene el modo funky en el que juegas con uno de los monos que tiene más habilidades y por tanto es más fácil, una vez terminado el juego desbloquea el modo difícil lo que genera que sea un título bastante rejugable y desafiante tanto para jugadores nuevos como veteranos. Expand
  70. Jul 19, 2020
    10
    El juego definitivo de plataformas en 2D, banda sonora alucinante muy divertido
  71. Jul 7, 2020
    10
    This is the best platformer that will please you with interesting gameplay, beautiful graphics, interesting levels with a lot of secrets. Tropical Freeze proved to be very convenient to play in portable mode, exploring the environment, opening secret areas and collecting all the items, which with its uncluttered levels makes the game optimal for public transport and travel. Definitely 10 points!
  72. Jun 23, 2020
    8
    Fun, platformer in tradition of previous games. It tweeks the original DKC in a fun way
  73. Jun 23, 2020
    8
    Highly polished platforming returns with well thought out level design, that ultimately fails to surprise or delight as much as it should. Disappointing nor revolutionary but well worth a playthrough
  74. Jun 23, 2020
    10
    Best 2d platformer out there with varied levels and environments would recommend to anyone with a switch who likes platformers
  75. Jun 22, 2020
    7
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Great game, fun platformer w zabi w 9lawiya w nik souwa ta3 matkom y'a Zab ta3 nami Expand
  76. Jun 18, 2020
    10
    Um dos melhores Donkey kong ja feitos, a altura dos classicos de snes. Jogabilidade fluida, trilha sonora impecavel e graficos lindissimos. Um titulo mais que necessario para quem tem um nintendo switch.
  77. Apr 16, 2020
    10
    To jest z tym że nie ma problemu ze znalezieniem pracy w zespole na stronie www katalog stron internetowych
  78. May 25, 2020
    10
    This is one of the best 2D platformers I've ever played. This game is defined by it's amazing controls and level design. DK's controls are just perfection. His bounces have a nice weight to them, his rolls can develop a heck tonna momentum, which makes playing as him just fun on a bun. His swimming controls are just as good. You can quickly dash underwater, which makes everything muchThis is one of the best 2D platformers I've ever played. This game is defined by it's amazing controls and level design. DK's controls are just perfection. His bounces have a nice weight to them, his rolls can develop a heck tonna momentum, which makes playing as him just fun on a bun. His swimming controls are just as good. You can quickly dash underwater, which makes everything much faster. You can get 3 buddies in this game. Diddy Kong, Dixie Kong, and Cranky Kong. Dixie Kong lets you glide for a second if you hold the jump button. Dixie Kong lets you glide for a second than gives you a boost upwards. Cranky Kong has a cane which'll let you bounce on spikes if timed correctly. The level design in this game is absolutely top notch. Basically, a level takes multiple gimmicks and then slowly fuses them together to create something brilliant. What's truly impressive is how natural the level design truly feels. Everything feels like it fits in where it is. There's so much stuff going on in the background. This game is just amazing and definitely worth a go if you're a fan of 2D platformers. Have a great day,/night folks! Expand
  79. May 24, 2020
    6
    I wish I were a child now, so I could better enjoy the great platformers which are coming out. At least visually this is one of the best. But it does contain a bit more railroading than I would like, and the whole genre just has the feeling of a reheated meal for me.
  80. May 19, 2020
    10
    The best 2d platformer I have ever played. This is up there as one of the best games you can get on switch, along with breath of the wild, oddessy, and ultimate.
  81. May 11, 2020
    8
    The intense difficulty and need for memorization of the levels detracts from the replayability of this title, but it is visually stunning, innovative, and fun nonetheless.
  82. May 5, 2020
    7
    Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze is a terrible port of a fantastic game. The game, as compared to the Wii U version, is almost identical with all of its flaws. It was much easier to excuse the flaws of the game years ago, but its much harder now, especially when they could have been easily fixed. Movement is uncomfortable at times, Dixie Kong is the only Kong worth using, and the menuDonkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze is a terrible port of a fantastic game. The game, as compared to the Wii U version, is almost identical with all of its flaws. It was much easier to excuse the flaws of the game years ago, but its much harder now, especially when they could have been easily fixed. Movement is uncomfortable at times, Dixie Kong is the only Kong worth using, and the menu is unbearably bad. Overall, it's definitely a good game, but the port could have been so much more. Expand
  83. May 1, 2020
    8
    Nothing to say except that it is one of the best 2D platforms in history. Crazy levels and super playable. As a catch it would put that they should have added some more level, since it is a port of Wii U. But in short, an excellent game.
  84. Apr 29, 2020
    6
    Sigh, another Switch port, that's not worth getting. I'm sick of Nintendo doing this
  85. Apr 26, 2020
    10
    the only thing i will say is tha Retro studios took Metroid and brought 10 out of 10 game and revolutionary the franchise and the metroidvania genre. They did exactly the same with DK now give them F ZeRO. Jus t give them F zero right now, who knows what they will do. Cant believe it...
  86. Apr 21, 2020
    6
    Decent Game. Has some fun mechanics are some of the levels are great. Overall though didnt find myself having too much fun. The rewards for completing challenges like puzzle pieces or the KONG pieces are laughable. Still images that look like an amateur painting. Figurines which are just models of the enemies. Thats another point, There is basically no enemy variety. They are all the sameDecent Game. Has some fun mechanics are some of the levels are great. Overall though didnt find myself having too much fun. The rewards for completing challenges like puzzle pieces or the KONG pieces are laughable. Still images that look like an amateur painting. Figurines which are just models of the enemies. Thats another point, There is basically no enemy variety. They are all the same and are very easy to avoid/kill.The bonus stages are all the same with slight variations. Overall not a bad game just didnt have much fun with it. Expand
  87. Apr 20, 2020
    8
    Ah, DK Tropical Freeze. Reviewing this game turned out to be quite a conflicting experience. Having been a fan of the franchise from the old SNES days, I was very excited to get my hands on this game. From a level and character design standpoint, this game is absolute art. Soundtrack? No one other than the great David Wise himself, absolute perfection.
    This game could've easily been a 10,
    Ah, DK Tropical Freeze. Reviewing this game turned out to be quite a conflicting experience. Having been a fan of the franchise from the old SNES days, I was very excited to get my hands on this game. From a level and character design standpoint, this game is absolute art. Soundtrack? No one other than the great David Wise himself, absolute perfection.
    This game could've easily been a 10, hadn't the developers taken 'frustration' for 'challenge'. Even with the help of special items, expect to die a lot. I mean, a LOT. This game will test your patience more than your platforming skills, especially If you want to beat it 100% like I did. Take a deep breath, and keep the ball rolling.
    Wish I could give it a 10, the game IS amazing, but the difficulty at times reflects on your gaming experience and make it less fun. So, I'm rating it 8 for the stunnig graphics, amazing soundtrack, beautiful and immersive level designs, and beloved characters.
    Expand
  88. Apr 19, 2020
    5
    Having been a big fan of nintendo's franchises all my life and missing out on the Wii U, I decided to give this title a go on the Switch. During the first hour I was high on nostalgia. The memories of playing DKC2 and 3 as a kid came back to me and I liked the feeling. After that initial rush however, I started to notice some serious issues and as of right now, I am in world three andHaving been a big fan of nintendo's franchises all my life and missing out on the Wii U, I decided to give this title a go on the Switch. During the first hour I was high on nostalgia. The memories of playing DKC2 and 3 as a kid came back to me and I liked the feeling. After that initial rush however, I started to notice some serious issues and as of right now, I am in world three and struggling to pick it back up and continue where I left off.

    Firstly, the controls feel so unresponsive. I never seem to time a jump right and DK moves so sluggish. It also doesn't help, that the y button has two actions attributed to it. A roll and slamming the floor. This often results in rolling of a platform when you just wanted to slam a box.

    Secondly, the level design is poor. It is just based on trial and error. When I was not dying rolling off platforms or untimely jumps, I died because said platforms suddenly collapsed right under me without any warning. The levels I played looked great, but they did not play great. In past games of the franchise, that was a totally different story.

    Overall, I am quite disappointed with the game. Great visuals and nostalgia are nice and all, but it goes to show that a tight control scheme is vital for a platforming game to succeed. Combine the unresponsive controls with bad level design and here's a game from a beloved franchise I don't know if I will want to finish.
    Expand
  89. Apr 17, 2020
    10
    Words can't describe how much I love this game. It sucks that it didn't sell well on the Wii U and that Nintendo is selling this version for $20 more than it was initially. Either way, it's definitely worth getting it on the Switch if you're at least somewhat interested in 2D platformers. To the average consumer, it's just another game in it's genre, but it's done EXTREMELY dang well. NotWords can't describe how much I love this game. It sucks that it didn't sell well on the Wii U and that Nintendo is selling this version for $20 more than it was initially. Either way, it's definitely worth getting it on the Switch if you're at least somewhat interested in 2D platformers. To the average consumer, it's just another game in it's genre, but it's done EXTREMELY dang well. Not a single level or boss is bad. Very challenging, but fair and doable; the level design introduces multiple creative mechanics/gimmicks that sometimes work with one another, and they go together well. Nothing comes at you too fast, even when the game gets hectic - that is not easy to pull off in a game like this. The world in the game, while clearly fictional, feels very much alive due to the populated levels, great animation, attention to detail, and the fact that nothing feels out of place. And the soundtrack is phenomenal. In my opinion, Donkey Kong has beaten Super Mario at his own game; this is currently the best 2D platformer out there. Expand
  90. CT2
    Apr 3, 2020
    10
    A really fun platformer with the art pushed to its limits and have plenty of collectables to find and challenges to overcome.
  91. Mar 16, 2020
    10
    Best platformer of all time. I beat the game twice, once on an airplane and I hate airplanes and Donkey Kong helped me out and made it an awesome ride. I got it for $50 at Best Buy and I love it. Can’t wait to beat it a 3rd time, no brainer purchase
  92. Mar 12, 2020
    9
    Uno de los mejores juegos de plataformas en 2D que se puede jugar hoy en día. El diseño de los niveles es brillante, y tiene una dificultad medida para ser un buen reto sin ser injusto. Los bosses a los que te enfrentas al final de cada mundo te sacarán alguna sonrisa. A la altura del Donkey Kong Country Returns de Wii, un juego excelente y muy recomendado.
  93. Mar 8, 2020
    6
    Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze is the fifth game in the Donkey Kong Country series, though it is more of a direct sequel to Donkey Kong Country Returns than it is to the first three games. As with the other games in the series, it is a 2D platformer whose central movement “gimmick” is the ability to roll along the ground or off ledges and do an air jump. This creates a burst of speedDonkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze is the fifth game in the Donkey Kong Country series, though it is more of a direct sequel to Donkey Kong Country Returns than it is to the first three games. As with the other games in the series, it is a 2D platformer whose central movement “gimmick” is the ability to roll along the ground or off ledges and do an air jump. This creates a burst of speed and momentum which can propel you along.

    The other central gimmick of this game is having a secondary character ride along on your back. These characters are released from barrels in levels, and in addition to giving you two extra hit points (on top of your normal two), they give you the ability to float in midair (Diddy Kong), do a floaty double jump (Dixie Kong), or pogo bounce super high and avoid getting harmed by spikes if you time your jumps correctly (Cranky Kong). This sounds really neat, but unfortunately, 95% of the time you want Dixie Kong and the other 5% of the time you need Cranky’s ability to pogo jump and dodge getting hit by spikes instead, with Diddy’s ability being almost totally worthless. As a result, this mechanic, as cool as it sounded at first, is pretty underdeveloped. Each of them also has an underwater “propulsion” ability, but again, Dixie Kong’s is not only the most useful, it’s the only one that is necessary to reach certain secrets.

    Like previous DKC games, the game consists of a series of middling difficulty 2D platforming levels, each of which has its own particular gimmick. This can be anything from going through a fruit factory and jumping off of sliced fruit to navigating through an underwater maze to jumping off of a bunch of cloud-covered platforms that propel themselves through the air and fade as you ride on them, forcing you to move swiftly to avoid falling into a bottomless pit. Indeed, the game is rather fond of bottomless pits in general, particularly in the more difficult stages, where you must jump from platform to platform or enemy to enemy, often with a time limit due to the platforms starting to fall apart after touching them.

    Interspersed with these levels are “vehicle” levels, which really consist of three kinds of levels:

    • Mine cart levels, where you ride in a mine cart and jump over obstacles while moving forward along rails at a constant speed.
    • Rocket levels, where you ride along on a rocket that can be navigated up and down, but which progresses laterally at a constant rate of speed, forcing you to dodge obstacles as you go
    • Rambi the Rhino levels, where you ride on the back of Rambi the Rhino, who can crash through obstacles, walls, and enemies with ease, resulting in lots of environmental destruction and speed as he charges around horn-first.

    Unfortunately, while the game does have a reasonable amount of variety, and the game has a lot of visual spectacle, it doesn’t really quite feel like it is as good as DKC 2 or DKC 3, which is a bit of a let-down.

    The most obvious way that this was the case was the lack of variety in the “bonus rooms”. In this game, there’s puzzle pieces and KONG letters, both of which serve as collectibles in each level. Some of the puzzle pieces are acquired via going into secret bonus rooms, either hidden barrels or entrances in the wall or whatever, which takes you to a separate mini-stage. In DKC 2 and DKC 3, these were all unique little mini stages, each appropriate to the level. However, in this game, the bonus stages are all the same – there’s about six or so room layouts, and they’re repeated throughout the game. They’re all pretty easy, and none of them are creative in any way. This is quite the letdown, and makes them a lot less interesting than they were in the original games.

    But the other issue is more subtle – the levels just don’t feel quite as high quality as the original games’ levels did at times. This game is much more visually impressive, and some of the levels have rather cute gimmicks to them, exploiting the background and doing more in the department of visual spectacle. And yet, the levels still feel slightly lacking, a bit rote. There's just a bunch of niggling little flaws that all add up to make the experience less than amazing.

    Overall, this is a pretty solid platformer. It was fun enough to play through, and while the game wasn’t overly long, probably clocking in around 20ish hours to grab all the collectibles, it wasn’t overly short, either. But it just doesn’t have that extra level of quality to put it over the top in the way that DKC2 did. In the end, I’m left feeling content but ambivalent about the game.
    Expand
  94. Feb 25, 2020
    7
    Donkey Kong tropical freeze is a good and entertaing game... But really short and easier than the previous game on the nintendo Wii (that doesn't mean this one is easy, in fact it's a hard game, but easier than country returns). The biggest issue of this Donkey Kong is what happens with most nintendo games: they're too expensive. Even if they are ports of games with many years like thisDonkey Kong tropical freeze is a good and entertaing game... But really short and easier than the previous game on the nintendo Wii (that doesn't mean this one is easy, in fact it's a hard game, but easier than country returns). The biggest issue of this Donkey Kong is what happens with most nintendo games: they're too expensive. Even if they are ports of games with many years like this one. Paying around 50 bucks for just 15 hours of play (in my case) is too much in my view. Expand
  95. Feb 19, 2020
    7
    Juego entretenido de plataformas en 2D, que se hace bastante corto, cumple con lo que promete.
  96. Jan 27, 2020
    10
    Amazing game, got it on boxing day, loved every second, and the backround design animation was stunning.
  97. Nov 26, 2019
    10
    Great gameplay, awe-inspiring soundtrack, and set in a world oozing with charm. Easily one of the best 2D platformers of all time.
  98. Nov 17, 2019
    10
    Donkey Kong Country was one of my favorite games growing up and Freeze does not disappoint. For a 2D platformer in today's day and age it's excellent.

    The levels designs are creative and true to the franchise. The characters are fun and add to the play-ability. The music is great. The boss fights are engaging. Do recommend.
  99. Nov 13, 2019
    10
    Fuera de fanatismos, la saga Donkey Kong siempre ha sido una forma plataformera buenísima, especialmente en su trilogía origina, los Country de Rareware; sin embargo, esta entrega superó todo lo conocido de la saga, un juegazo muy divertidísimo, con mucha variedad, las mas grande dificultad y recupera la música legendaria de otras entregas. Recomendado al 1000x1000.
  100. Oct 31, 2019
    10
    Just the best 2D platformer of the last decade, what else can I say? David Wise you beautiful man.
Metascore
86

Generally favorable reviews - based on 76 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 70 out of 76
  2. Negative: 0 out of 76
  1. Jan 27, 2025
    70
    Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze continues the tough-as-nails platforming with new power-ups to help navigate the nastiest obstacles, as we’re treated to the best soundtrack in the series. However, the inconsistent difficulty makes for a less refined game and the bosses are dragged out to the point where fighting them becomes a chore.
  2. Nintendo Force Magazine
    Sep 5, 2018
    95
    If you enjoy the thrill of Kongquest – er, conquest – over a worthy challenge, this game should satisfy. [Issue #34 – July/August 2018, p. 74]
  3. CD-Action
    Aug 2, 2018
    90
    Retro’s creativity is infinite and I simply cannot imagine any platforming fan overlooking this gem. [07/2018, p.77]