Donkey Kong Country Returns

 Wii
Metascore
87

Generally favorable reviews - based on 77 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 73 out of 77
  2. Mixed: 4 out of 77
  3. Negative: 0 out of 77
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  1. Metro GameCentral
    Dec 18, 2010
    70
    Donkey Kong Country is still no classic platformer, but this reboot comes surprisingly close to rivaling modern Super Marios.
  2. Gamervision
    Dec 18, 2010
    70
    Donkey Kong Country Returns is maddeningly frustrating. In fact, I've never been happier that I didn't have to play a game anymore than when I finished playing Donkey Kong Country Returns.
  3. GameSpy
    Dec 18, 2010
    70
    A (mostly) pleasant surprise and a return to form. Considering how poorly the original trilogy aged (if you ask me), that's pretty... well, bananas.
  5. Edge Magazine
    Dec 10, 2010
    70
    Retro Studios has done a fine job with the Donkey Kong Country concept, ably translating its appeal for a modern platform, but it doesn't push it much further. [Christmas 2010, p.92]
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Awards & Rankings

6
#6 Best Wii Game of 2010
4
#4 Most Discussed Wii Game of 2010
6
#6 Most Shared Wii Game of 2010

User Reviews

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User Score
8.6

Generally favorable reviews- based on 543 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 471 out of 543
  2. Mixed: 48 out of 543
  3. Negative: 24 out of 543
  1. febb26
    Nov 25, 2010
    9
    Don't listen to johnnynumber, like you can see he's the only one who gave a 0 to the game because he just probably sucks hard on it. DonkeyDon't listen to johnnynumber, like you can see he's the only one who gave a 0 to the game because he just probably sucks hard on it. Donkey Kong Country Returns is a huge achievement and a 2D masterpiece from Retro Studios. Nintendo must be proud of seeing this little company doing wonders like Rare did once upon a time. Brilliant gameplay and level design, fluid animation, very good remixes and some jewels in the new soundtrack, big replay value and tons of collectibles! What to ask more from a DKC game! And it's hard as hell! But unlike johnnynumber, I have skills and didn't use the Super Guide on every level ;)… Full Review »
  2. ninecats
    Nov 21, 2010
    10
    An example of returning to 2D and doling it RIGHT unlike some other titles! *cough*sonic 4*cough*
    even with the Wii remote shaking the    An example of returning to 2D and doling it RIGHT unlike some other titles! *cough*sonic 4*cough*
    even with the Wii remote shaking the controls are tight and very responsive. the levels are beautifully designed and Cranky's shops are very funny.

    great old-school style platforming!
    10/10    … Full Review »
  3. realgamefan
    Nov 22, 2010
    10
    Retro Studios has delivered an awesome title with DKCR. The level of polish is outstanding. This game is fun and challenging. It is worthRetro Studios has delivered an awesome title with DKCR. The level of polish is outstanding. This game is fun and challenging. It is worth buying a Wii for. I simply love it and I can't find any flaws. Fans of this series: It's On Like Donkey Kong AGAIN!!… Full Review »
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