Nintendo Brings Dixie Kong to Donkey Kong Country Returns HD in Free Update
Nintendo has just rolled out a substantial and free content update for its high-definition remaster Donkey Kong Country Returns HD on Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2, officially Version 1.1.0, and the biggest headline is the addition of Dixie Kong as a fully playable character. This marks a notable expansion of one of the most beloved platformers in Nintendo’s library and gives fans a fresh reason to revisit the jungle.
What’s New in the Update
The free update — available as of January 21, 2026 — brings several exciting additions and improvements:
Playable Dixie Kong
For the first time in the HD remaster, Dixie Kong joins the roster as a playable character in both single-player and local co-op. Her inclusion isn’t purely cosmetic; Dixie brings unique movement abilities, especially her Helicopter Spin maneuver that allows her to gain extra height and hang time, offering new strategies for navigating certain platforming challenges and hazards.
In solo play, players grab a barrel to switch between Dixie and Diddy Kong, while in two-player local co-op Mode, the second player can choose Dixie via controller input on the world map — bringing added flexibility to how you team up.
Turbo Attack Mode
Nintendo has also added Turbo Attack mode, a new, faster-paced challenge that reimagines levels for speedrunning. Completing a stage within the target time earns players turbo medals, introducing an extra layer of replayability and competitive timing.
System Enhancements and Features
Beyond character and gameplay additions, the update also introduces broader enhancements:
Improved visuals and faster load times for Nintendo Switch 2 players, boosting resolution and responsiveness.
GameShare (Local User) support on Switch 2, allowing two players to enjoy local co-op using a single copy of the game.
Brazilian Portuguese language support alongside general UI improvements and bug fixes.
These additions bring both cosmetic polish and quality-of-life upgrades, especially for fans playing on Nintendo’s next-generation hardware.
Why This Matters
Donkey Kong Country Returns HD — originally released for Wii in 2010 and remastered for Nintendo Switch in January 2025 — has long been praised for its tight platforming and challenging level design.
While the HD remaster delivered higher-resolution visuals and control refinements, it initially lacked significant new content beyond technical improvements. The arrival of Dixie Kong — a fan-favorite character from earlier entries in the Donkey Kong Country series — gives longtime players something genuinely new to explore.
Adding a new playable character and fresh modes through a free update reinforces Nintendo’s commitment to supporting its library post-launch and encourages players to dive back into classic titles with renewed interest.
How to Get the Update
Owners of Donkey Kong Country Returns HD on Nintendo Switch or Nintendo Switch 2 can download the Version 1.1.0 update now via the eShop or the game’s software update menu. Once installed, Dixie Kong and all new features will be available immediately without any additional purchase.
