Donkey Kong Country gets an opening date for Super Nintendo World in Japan

Fans finally got their first look at the much-anticipated Donkey Kong Land– themed expansion along with an official opening date of December 11, 2024 during the recent Super Nintendo World Direct. The new Nintendo-inspired land at Universal Studios Japan will mark the first debut of the new expansion.

Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Japan is a fully immersive theme park that brings beloved Nintendo characters and worlds to life. Since its grand opening in March 2021, it has become a must-see destination for Nintendo fans, offering interactive attractions, cutting-edge technology and iconic environments inspired by Super Mario franchise. First announced in 2021, the new immersive Donkey Kong Country zone featuring Mario's barrel-throwing rival combines state-of-the-art attractions and popular elements from the games, providing visitors with an unforgettable Donkey Kong experience. .

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Nintendo fans have been eagerly awaiting more details about this game Donkey Kong Land expansion, especially after its initial summer 2024 opening faced delays. However, fans can now begin the official countdown, as announced by renowned game designer Shigeru Miyamoto Donkey Kong Land opens in December at Universal Studios Japan's Super Nintendo World. Along with the opening date, Miyamoto has provided an exclusive first look at Donkey Kong Country, which will feature activities based on the Donkey Kong franchise, including an exciting Nintendo-themed roller coaster called Mine Cart Madness, which is inspired by a popular level from the 1994 SNES game Donkey Kong Land. Riders will be launched from a barrel cannon on a thrilling mine cart journey through the jungle, including a thrilling “jump over broken track” as shown in a Nintendo render from earlier this year.

Donkey Kong Country opening date for Universal Studios Japan

• Donkey Kong Country opens on December 11, 2024.

Miyamoto also revealed that guests will have the chance to meet Donkey Kong himself outside of his iconic treehouse. The meet-and-greet promises to be a highlight, allowing fans to meet the famous tie-wearing character up close in an environment straight out of the game. This new area offers Donkey Kong fans and theme park lovers an immersive experience that faithfully brings the treasured world of Donkey Kong to life. The Donkey Kong Country expansion is also set to open at Universal's Epic Universe in Florida in May 2025, giving American fans a chance to enjoy the same jungle-themed adventure closer to home.

The new expansion in Japan includes not only character encounters, but also a variety of attractions, interactive games, food and exclusive merchandise. Highlights (besides the Mine-Cart Madness roller coaster) include a Donkey Kong-themed rhythm game that's perfect for playing together with friends. Players must hit the drums in time with the lights to match the beat, and upon success Rambi the rhino will fly out of the crate. In addition, Universal Studios Japan's wristband technology called Power Up Bands will allow visitors to collect virtual letters spelling out “KONG” as they explore the area.

Donkey Kong Land

Released over just two years between 1994 and 1996, the original Donkey Kong Country trilogy is considered by many to be one of the best side-scrolling platformers ever made. After a long hiatus, the series returned in 2010 and another Wii U game was released four years later.