Nintendo has revealed a brand-new amiibo set featuring two iconic characters Donkey Kong and Pauline set to release on July 17, 2025, alongside the hotly anticipated Donkey Kong Bananza for the Nintendo Switch 2. This marks not just a celebration of the game itself but a nostalgic and symbolic union of two beloved figures from Nintendo’s history, now reimagined in one of the company’s most ambitious Donkey Kong games yet.

A Duo Reunited in Plastic and Power

This striking amiibo figurine showcases a youthful, adventurous Donkey Kong standing confidently alongside a revamped Pauline no longer the damsel in distress, but a full-blown co-op partner with a voice that literally shapes gameplay. The figure captures their dynamic from Donkey Kong Bananza, where Pauline uses her musical powers to reveal hidden paths, disable enemies, and even enhance DK’s abilities.

But this amiibo is more than a shelf trophy. It unlocks in-game bonuses that can spice up your experience:

• Exclusive “Diva Dress” Outfit for Pauline – Only accessible via the amiibo, this elegant costume transforms Pauline into a retro jazz icon while retaining her gameplay powers.
• Explosive Kong Tiles – When the amiibo is scanned, players can generate explosive tiles during levels, allowing for tactical destruction of terrain and enemies.
• Extra Interactions – Fans using previous Donkey Kong amiibo can expect bonuses like gold tiles, while other non-related amiibo produce massive, terrain-shifting “sphere” objects that interact with the environment.

This amiibo isn’t just fan service it’s a gameplay enhancer and collector’s item rolled into one.

Amiibo Integration Done Right

Nintendo has long experimented with how its amiibo interact with software, from subtle tweaks in Zelda to full unlocks in Smash Bros. But with Donkey Kong Bananza, this new dual-character amiibo feels purpose-built for the experience. Rather than tacking on cosmetic bonuses, Nintendo is offering meaningful mechanical value. The explosive tiles mechanic, in particular, plays into the game’s environmental puzzle design, offering players new ways to clear paths, uncover secrets, or trap enemies.

The “Diva Dress” isn’t just for fashion either it includes unique animations and stage flourishes, making it feel like a reward worth scanning for every playthrough. Even Pauline’s vocal abilities take on new effects with this costume, amplifying her impact during cooperative sequences.

This announcement is a loving nod to the roots of the Donkey Kong franchise. Pauline first appeared in the original Donkey Kong arcade game back in 1981, long before Princess Peach dominated Mario’s world. Her reintroduction in Super Mario Odyssey earned critical praise, and her role in Bananza cements her place as one of Nintendo’s most interesting returning characters.

By pairing her with Donkey Kong in amiibo form, Nintendo pays tribute to the franchise’s origins while embracing the evolution of its characters. It’s a celebration of not only Donkey Kong’s 3D return but also how far Pauline has come from Damsel in Distress to playable powerhouse.

Release Details & Availability

The Donkey Kong & Pauline amiibo will launch July 17, 2025, the same day Donkey Kong Bananza debuts on the Nintendo Switch 2. While pricing hasn’t been officially confirmed by Nintendo Australia, similar dual-character amiibo sets have retailed at around AUD $44.95 – $49.95, depending on region and availability.

Expect pre-orders to go live soon through retailers like EB Games, JB Hi-Fi, Amazon Australia, and the My Nintendo Store. Given the game’s launch-title status and the popularity of both characters, early reservations are highly recommended especially for collectors.

The Donkey Kong & Pauline amiibo is shaping up to be more than a collector’s item it’s an extension of the game’s creative spirit. With meaningful in-game enhancements, iconic character design, and a nostalgic edge, this amiibo delivers both charm and function. Whether you’re a long-time DK fan, a Pauline supporter since Odyssey, or a Nintendo enthusiast who collects everything amiibo-related, this one’s shaping up to be a must-have.

Donkey Kong Bananza swings onto Nintendo Switch 2 on July 17, 2025, and this amiibo is coming right along for the ride.

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