Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze

 Wii U
User Score
8.9

Generally favorable reviews- based on 915 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 836 out of 915
  2. Mixed: 28 out of 915
  3. Negative: 51 out of 915
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  1. TIGER-COOL
    Feb 21, 2014
    10
    Haven't finished the game, but from what I've played some of these low reviews are baffling. The level design and attention to detail are top class. The gameplay is fluid and intuitive. Lots of great, subtle ideas presented on a moment by moment basis, so I'm not sure what all the "lack of ambitious gameplay" is all about. Maybe these reviewers rushed through things a bit?

    Absolutely    Haven't finished the game, but from what I've played some of these low reviews are baffling. The level design and attention to detail are top class. The gameplay is fluid and intuitive. Lots of great, subtle ideas presented on a moment by moment basis, so I'm not sure what all the "lack of ambitious gameplay" is all about. Maybe these reviewers rushed through things a bit?

    Absolutely beautiful game, by the way. Maybe the best looking game on the Wii U (Close between this and Mario 3D World). David Wise on the soundtrack puts it over the top. Get it.    … Expand
  2. Scv3
    Feb 21, 2014
    10
    The level design of this game is just perfect. I truly recommend this game if you like platform games and challenge. The boss battles are well thought.
  3. beetleking
    Feb 21, 2014
    10
    Brilliant level desing, A alot variety in almost every level, Good boss fight, Amazing soundtrack.. Beautiful graphics. Challenge is fair and I love that you can found secret path from levels... Amazing game.
  4. jholden3249
    Jun 29, 2014
    10
    This is what video games were meant to be. Entertainment found through challenge of skill-based gameplay, with flawless mechanics, top-tier soundtrack, gorgeous visuals, expertly crafted level design, creative and unique bosses, and incredible replay value through time trials video uploads.

    I've loved Donkey Kong Country since I was a small child. And this game blows the breaks off its    This is what video games were meant to be. Entertainment found through challenge of skill-based gameplay, with flawless mechanics, top-tier soundtrack, gorgeous visuals, expertly crafted level design, creative and unique bosses, and incredible replay value through time trials video uploads.

    I've loved Donkey Kong Country since I was a small child. And this game blows the breaks off its predecessors. Rare made a classic trilogy back in the 16-bit era, but the games fall incredibly short when compared to Retro's recent triumph. In fact, most games fall short of Tropical Freeze. I can't recommend this game enough. If you suck at video games, and like to be led through from start to finish with novice difficulty that makes you feel like a winner, this game is not for you. But if you are a real GAMER, and find entertainment through overcoming a challenge via practice, skill, and perfectly timed maneuvers, look no further. DKC Tropical Freeze is, at least in my opinion, the greatest 2D platformer I've ever played.    … Expand
  5. Ammar2000
    Feb 21, 2014
    10
    This game is awesome and I do recommend it to anyone though it does have some cons but overall it is a great game for the wii u. But by far the best thing is the maps they fell alive
  6. seantendo001
    Feb 21, 2014
    10
    This a beautiful game with an incredible soundtrack. Join Donkey Kong and his Kong family in this outrageous adventure on the Nintendo Wii U. DK and fam look brilliant as you maneuver them through this games bright and colorful worlds. The boss battles are intense and overall this is a classic game. Check out my youtube channel seantendo001 - especially my Quality Content Comparison video.
  7. jomingo
    Feb 22, 2014
    10
    Retro Studios have done an astounding job resurrecting the spirit of a franchise's history while creating something new to add to the legacy. If you liked Donkey Kong Country Returns, this game is improved in every possible category, from a stellar soundtrack and graphical fidelity, to the variety of levels and fantastic enemy design. No other video game has felt like such a thrill rideRetro Studios have done an astounding job resurrecting the spirit of a franchise's history while creating something new to add to the legacy. If you liked Donkey Kong Country Returns, this game is improved in every possible category, from a stellar soundtrack and graphical fidelity, to the variety of levels and fantastic enemy design. No other video game has felt like such a thrill ride from start to finish, nor packed more personality and awe-inspiring moments than Donkey Kong Country Tropical Freeze.… Expand
  8. orborborb
    Feb 21, 2014
    10
    Easy to learn, difficult to master, some of the most involving art design and music you will come across, there is no reason not to love this game. I would recommend it to absolutely anyone.
  9. moltonasty
    Feb 24, 2014
    10
    This game is simply incredible. It's the ultimate culmination of all previous DKC games, and if I could have seen this back in the early 90's my brain would have exploded. Graphics, gameplay, and sound all come together in an epic tour de force, as one of the best games I've played. WOW THIS GAME IS GOOD.
  10. Dhulfiqar
    Feb 22, 2014
    9
    Retro have done good job for making this game to be fun and challenging. The levels are good long and not too long or short. The gameplay, music, graphics are amazing. The level design is not perfect but very good. But somehow this game does not give the same spirit than the old DKC games. I hope next time they really bring back the Kremlings that really belongs to this series.
  11. TheYosh
    Mar 19, 2014
    10
    This game is amazing. Dare I say, it's better than the originals. Yeah, I went there. The controls are smooth, the music is AMAZING, the level design is perfect... All the stars aligned for this gem. With the addition of Cranky Kong and Dixie Kong, it fits more styles of play. Anyone who turns this one down is missing out.
  12. dreampeppers99
    Dec 3, 2014
    10
    If you could ask 100% of DKC Classic fans what game they would want 0% of them would say something so amazing as DKCTF, or tropical freeze for the intimates.

    This game, for me, is the game of the year, to summarize:

    Good:

    Each level feels unique
    So many collectibles
    High value of replay

    Bad:

    animal buddies :( (opportunity for the next installment)
  13. Rob1986
    Feb 25, 2014
    9
    There is a lot of complaining about the game not being innovative, but, to me, this franchise didn't need a makeover yet. New level designs, new enemies, new bosses with the same great style of game play and better visuals is perfect for me. The cut scenes look great, and there is a little bit more 3D in this game than in DKCR, and I like using the game pad so much better than holdingThere is a lot of complaining about the game not being innovative, but, to me, this franchise didn't need a makeover yet. New level designs, new enemies, new bosses with the same great style of game play and better visuals is perfect for me. The cut scenes look great, and there is a little bit more 3D in this game than in DKCR, and I like using the game pad so much better than holding the Wii-mote sideways.

    I have to deduct a point for the abscence of useful game pad functionality. Nintendo needs to patch this game so that you can use game pad and the TV at the same time. How great would it be to have the person playing on the gamepad be able to go back or forward off-screen to thump a couple more enemies, or to grab some needed goodies? Even just mirroring the TV would be better than nothing. That way I wouldn't have to die when kids or wife walk in front of the TV while I'm playing. Pretty dumb Nintendo.    … Expand
  14. Emme
    Feb 22, 2014
    9
    This game is brilliant. Improved controls, great HD graphics, tons of humour, enemies, extras...I mean,the new puzzles alone would have been great, the way You can throw enemies around, the fantastic coopmode...to date for me the best JnR on Wii U, and maybe on any console. Retro know what they are doing and how to please gamers.
  15. mohamdu
    Mar 8, 2014
    10
    I've never reviewed a game on Metacritic, but something has to be said about this game. Just looking at the User Scores (186 Positive, 4 Mixed, 21 Negative) it's obvious that there is something wrong with the way that modern video game journalists review games. This game does not deserve an 82.

    Tropical Freeze is a breath of fresh air in a era of gaming where emphasis has been placed on    I've never reviewed a game on Metacritic, but something has to be said about this game. Just looking at the User Scores (186 Positive, 4 Mixed, 21 Negative) it's obvious that there is something wrong with the way that modern video game journalists review games. This game does not deserve an 82.

    Tropical Freeze is a breath of fresh air in a era of gaming where emphasis has been placed on things like plot, realism, Quick Time Events and DLC. The game is completely built around one thing: gameplay. Some of the most challenging and exciting gameplay in any game I've played in years. This game is essentially the Dark Souls of 2D Platforming. It's beautiful, the co-op play is fun and lets you and your friends share the joy of clearing level after level. There are secrets around every corner as well as things that can kill you. Boss fights are actually interesting and force players to think on their feet to defeat. There is simply something special about Tropical Freeze, it actually manages to surpass all the previous Donkey Kong Country games before it. Tropical Freeze is one of the best games I've ever played.

    I honestly feel as if the people who would rate this game negatively either are used to playing games that are more like movies, or games that simply aren't challenging. For someone who craves a beautifully crafted game that bursting with ingenious ideas, an incredibly difficult challenge and well designed co-op play, Tropical Freeze is the way to go.    … Expand
  16. DemKin
    Feb 28, 2014
    10
    Beautiful, absolutely flawless gameplay and level design, funny, diversified, colorful,... the new DKC is all that, and more. It is long, especially if you wanna get all the collectables, challenging and crazy fun to play. Kudos to the soundtrack. The DKC series has always been known for its amazing OSTs, and this one is definitely one of the best and most inspired ever heard in a videoBeautiful, absolutely flawless gameplay and level design, funny, diversified, colorful,... the new DKC is all that, and more. It is long, especially if you wanna get all the collectables, challenging and crazy fun to play. Kudos to the soundtrack. The DKC series has always been known for its amazing OSTs, and this one is definitely one of the best and most inspired ever heard in a video game.
    Retro Studios really captured the essence of this legendary character and made a game that suits him perfectly. The fans will probably love all the old Donkey Kong vibes, mixed with modernity.
    Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze is a masterpiece of its genre, and it keeps reminding it to us during every single level we're travelling through.    … Expand
  17. Kassell
    Mar 20, 2014
    9
    The Game is great for classic gamers and newer gamers, its a retro platform game with new type features. The reviews have been to harsh I strongly believe if a game is labeled "Wii U" then they will go in expecting to be bad. The game has a nice feel and flow, graphics are nice no frame rate issues for me. The only thing that needed to be added in my opinion is being able to play as otherThe Game is great for classic gamers and newer gamers, its a retro platform game with new type features. The reviews have been to harsh I strongly believe if a game is labeled "Wii U" then they will go in expecting to be bad. The game has a nice feel and flow, graphics are nice no frame rate issues for me. The only thing that needed to be added in my opinion is being able to play as other kongs in single player. Anyone who is looking for a fun game to play and owns a Wii U should pick it up for sure. There is no reason for this game to score anything less than an 80.… Expand
  18. Matt62475
    Apr 9, 2014
    10
    I am 38 years old and I love platform games, because I have been playing them for decades. I am typically very critical of how a platform game is constructed. Donkey Kong Tropical Freeze is a masterpiece. Also, the music is excellent, it adds to the entire experience .
  19. Jave
    Dec 6, 2014
    10
    An extremely beautiful game with great controls, fun & challenging an absolute must have for wii u owners. The game can get tough but never to the point that you want to stop playing, it's challenge makes you want to play more & more. Nintendo has great games & this might be on top of the list.
  20. Sausage22
    Nov 7, 2017
    10
    Amazing 2d platformer, the level design is perfect and music is fantastic. A lot of improvments form first dkcr game. Can be a liitle hard, but i belive in you.
  21. DerWahreQwert
    Jan 29, 2018
    10
    Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze is simply the best 2D-Platformer I have played since Super Mario World. Every single stage is designed with passion and detail, every one has at least 1 level-exclusive focus, for example the sandstorm level from world 3. The Boss fights are all unique and more entertaining than the ones from DKCR. This game also has a really great Soundtrack: fromDonkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze is simply the best 2D-Platformer I have played since Super Mario World. Every single stage is designed with passion and detail, every one has at least 1 level-exclusive focus, for example the sandstorm level from world 3. The Boss fights are all unique and more entertaining than the ones from DKCR. This game also has a really great Soundtrack: from beautiful underwater tracks in world 4 to catchy remixes of the rocket barrel theme from DKCR.
    Sadly this gem suffered from the poor performance of the Wii U, but hopefully the upcoming Switch version will compensate and finally give the game the honor, which it thoroughly deserves    … Expand
  22. SylarHRG
    Mar 26, 2014
    10
    One of the best modern platformers, if not the best, that I have ever played. I cannot compare to old school platformers (just not fair), but of any recent titles (last gen and current gen), by far the best. The music is amazing, the artistic graphics are awesome, the gameplay is challenging and a good amount of difficult, controls are responsive and fun. If you buy a WiiU, buy this game.
  23. PanthersFanStev
    May 17, 2014
    10
    This game is amazing. Crisp graphics, enjoyable soundtrack and amazing level design. Great 2 player multiplayer action, really rockin with a good wingman/woman. A 10 except for a few minor items. Lives are shared, so if you are say, playing with your 5 year old, lives evaporate quickly. No ability to swap the player 1 character from DK. I also miss the lack of the blowing mechanicThis game is amazing. Crisp graphics, enjoyable soundtrack and amazing level design. Great 2 player multiplayer action, really rockin with a good wingman/woman. A 10 except for a few minor items. Lives are shared, so if you are say, playing with your 5 year old, lives evaporate quickly. No ability to swap the player 1 character from DK. I also miss the lack of the blowing mechanic from the 3DS version. My complaints are minor and come from experiemce with other games and other DK titles. This game is an incredibly enjoyable experience for the family.… Expand
  24. TheDarkKnight22
    Jun 9, 2014
    10
    The best wii u game to date. it is a must have and a system seller. the gameplay is great. the difficulty is perfect. the only thing that i can think of that is wrong with the game is the lack of a good menu setup. nintendo has always had a problem with their menus and it is a thing that needs to be fixed.
  25. klaptrap
    May 22, 2014
    10
    Well folks, if you've been looking to play the greatest 2D platformer of all time, you've just found it. Donkey Kong Country Tropical Freeze is absolutely phenomenal in every single way. The visuals are superb, the level design is amazing, the amount of content is huge, the replay value and multiplayer is great, the music is worthy of awards, it innovates on Donkey Kong Country ReturnsWell folks, if you've been looking to play the greatest 2D platformer of all time, you've just found it. Donkey Kong Country Tropical Freeze is absolutely phenomenal in every single way. The visuals are superb, the level design is amazing, the amount of content is huge, the replay value and multiplayer is great, the music is worthy of awards, it innovates on Donkey Kong Country Returns and adds so much in terms of new abilities and level designs and the boss fights are a lot of fun. Did I miss anything? Well if I did count on it being amazing in this game. It's currently the best game on the Wii U. If you own a Wii U you need to own this game.… Expand
  26. redrx8gt2005
    Jul 5, 2014
    8
    ill start off by saying that the graphics are gorgeous , the gameplay is pretty similar to donkey kong returns , the game is just a fun 2D Platformer overall , the only DOWNSIDE is the Difficulty can be very frustrating at times , i recommend getting a Pro Controller , it works much better then the gamepad , also the game doesnt really use gamepad other then off screen play , but still aill start off by saying that the graphics are gorgeous , the gameplay is pretty similar to donkey kong returns , the game is just a fun 2D Platformer overall , the only DOWNSIDE is the Difficulty can be very frustrating at times , i recommend getting a Pro Controller , it works much better then the gamepad , also the game doesnt really use gamepad other then off screen play , but still a great Platformer… Expand
  27. nonsenseGUS
    Feb 23, 2014
    10
    a masterfully crafted game. music,visuals,game play,variety. this game offers so much! the amount of detail this game has is incredible! to the enemy that inhabit the land to the environment all the way to the smallest animations. this game will keep you hooked. at one point you will be shot into a tornado, jumping on land that has been ripped from the ground while lighting strikes at youa masterfully crafted game. music,visuals,game play,variety. this game offers so much! the amount of detail this game has is incredible! to the enemy that inhabit the land to the environment all the way to the smallest animations. this game will keep you hooked. at one point you will be shot into a tornado, jumping on land that has been ripped from the ground while lighting strikes at you destroying the very platforms you stand on. at another you will be in a mine cart dodging left and right avoiding wholes in the track made by sharks right in front of your very eyes. there are many instances like these, challenging and rewarding and none of the game feels unfair. all of this action is complement by the beautifully crafted music and environment. for any wiiu owner, this is a must buy.… Expand
  28. Nitro123
    Jan 3, 2015
    9
    A great game with many new features. The background is very detailed and lush. Donkey Kong Tropical Freeze is also very innovative with how the background takes some part in the actual game. It is a perfect game for the Wii U.
  29. DragonRedDawn
    Mar 14, 2014
    9
    If you've been holding out for a a solid Nintendo title that will bring back the classic feel of console gaming, now is the time for you to buy your Wii U. If you already own a Wii U, it's pretty much your BIRTHDAY! Donkey Kong Tropical Freeze brings back so many elements of DK Country with absolutely gorgeous graphics and catchy tunes from the original composer.

    Play it, beat it, buy    If you've been holding out for a a solid Nintendo title that will bring back the classic feel of console gaming, now is the time for you to buy your Wii U. If you already own a Wii U, it's pretty much your BIRTHDAY! Donkey Kong Tropical Freeze brings back so many elements of DK Country with absolutely gorgeous graphics and catchy tunes from the original composer.

    Play it, beat it, buy it, and saddle up on your rhino cause there are plenty of secret levels with loads of bananas just waiting to be found. Rayman was great, Donkey Kong is awesome!    … Expand
  30. sacredheals
    Mar 15, 2014
    10
    Just finished the game, and honestly i have three words for a review: Buy. This. Now. It was absolutely phenomenal - graphics, gameplay, and most importantly (for me) the MUSIC. It was a nostalgia trip for me going back through the 1990s playing DKC's on the super nintendo... Absolutely phenomenal game. Way better than DKC Returns. Loved every second of it!!
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Awards & Rankings

11
#11 Best Wii U Game of 2014
6
#6 Most Discussed Wii U Game of 2014
2
#2 Most Shared Wii U Game of 2014

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
83

Generally favorable reviews - based on 77 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 65 out of 77
  2. Mixed: 12 out of 77
  3. Negative: 0 out of 77
  1. Pelit (Finland)
    May 11, 2014
    90
    The next generation of Donkey Kong is a solid platformer for the veterans. The difficulty level is straight from the nineties and the game doesn't give any slack. It's an thrilling adventure that frustrates at times, but on the other hand, it gives you a true sense of achievement. With these kind of games Nintendo will survive, no matter what the analysts say. [March 2014]
  2. Hyper Magazine
    Apr 9, 2014
    70
    I hate Tropical Freeze, but I hate it for the right reasons. It's an invigorating hate: I really badly want to beat this game. And when I do, it will be oh so worth it. [May 2014, p.68]
  3. LEVEL (Czech Republic)
    Apr 7, 2014
    80
    Still very hard, still very enjoyable. A no-brainer for all the fans of the series but also for anyone with a Wii U. [Issue #239]
See all critic reviews »