Nintendo Tweaks Another Classic Character Post-Donkey Kong Redesign: Best Look Revealed

Nintendo has recently unveiled an updated design for Diddy Kong, following the significant changes made earlier this year to Donkey Kong's iconic look. These modifications were first noticed in official artwork and early footage from Mario Kart: World Tour.

The refreshed depiction of Diddy Kong was showcased through images from Nintendo's website and branding materials displayed at Licensing Expo 2025 in Las Vegas. As highlighted by Nintendo Life, the new artwork presents Diddy with a more cartoonish aesthetic, featuring rounder eyes and a warmer, friendlier grin.

Visitors to Licensing Expo 2025, where brands exhibit their franchises and explore merchandising opportunities, also encountered the revamped Diddy (and Donkey) Kong designs, as shared by attendee Cptn_Alex on social media.

Image credit: Nintendo.
Image credit: Nintendo.

Although Nintendo has not officially commented on these updates, the changes are widely believed to align with the characters' appearances in the highly successful movie adaptation, The Super Mario Bros. Movie. Even Princess Peach has undergone a subtle transformation, with her appearance adjusted for the box art of her Switch game, Princess Peach: Showtime!.

Donkey Kong is set to feature prominently in the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 title, Donkey Kong Bananza. While Diddy Kong’s involvement remains unconfirmed, the inclusion of other Kongs like Cranky Kong suggests his potential return. Additionally, the forthcoming Super Mario World movie sequel is anticipated to reintroduce these beloved characters, complete with their redesigned aesthetics.

Of course this post is blowing up! Here’s a closer look at the new Diddy Kong render :)
via Nintendo booth @ Licensing Expo pic.twitter.com/QzxJOWs9gF
— Cptn_Alex (@Cptn_Alex) May 20, 2025