I wholeheartedly agree, when you truly sit down and analyze this game then you can see that Tropical Freeze is truly one of the best experiences the genre can offer
@@tetermcthe originals are just as good. I didn’t like Tropical Freeze that much because it changed so much from the originals. It takes some time to get used to and understand just how great the game really is.
@@cgrooney9945a shame you didn’t like it. Maybe give it another try? The controls take some time to get used to, just try not to see it as an old DKC game but rather a new and different one.
DK:TF is the best 2D platformer of all time. Everything from the visuals, level designs and controls, is top tier. Oh and let's not forget the stunning music.
It is my favourite of all time for sure but I would also say sonic mania and celeste give it a solid run for its money Celeste especially does a lot of the same tight nit platforming and incredible level themes as this game and Lena Raines compositions are godly
Hard agree with you OP. I started playing it on my Wii U emulator. I know this game came out in 2014 and I gotta say unlike returns. This game has aged like FINE. WINE. the visuals are SOOO crisp. the other guys had some solid picks as well. I See we're amongst gamers of taste. 🧑🍳👌
And that's the end of another amazing series of retrospectives! This game is absolutey incredible. One of the greatest 2d platformers of all time, and one of Nintendo's best creations. It's gorgeous, plays amazingly, has fantastic level design, and oozes charm. I was similar to you that I wasn't blown away with this game at first, but over the years I've come to realize how good this game really is. Great job with this series of reviews man, your stuff gets better and better with each vid!
You know, I just finished Xenoblade 2 and was unsure of what to play next, but hearing you go on about this game has made me want to replay it so badly. It's really one of my favorites.
Tropical freeze is such an excellent example of variety. Some levels are bombastic like mountain mania or mangrove cove, others more reflective like amiss abyss or seashore war. The game reflects this beautifully. And the way you travel from the exciting posts mangroves, but then an isolated, despairing DK island covered in snow. This game even if overlooked now is excellent and near flawless.
I just got this game for my graduation, and *oh my gosh I have never felt such satisfaction playing a game before.* Here's everything that stands out to me: -The enemies are so well-designed. And unlike Mario where you run into something and just... get hurt, the enemies actually attack you. They all have so much expression put into them. -The levels are designed perfectly. Instead of feeling hard just because "the game is hard", any death feels like it's your own fault, and that you'll succeed if you keep trying. -Okay, the elephant in the room is obviously the music. The first level in the savanna; that music just seems like it builds up infinitely. Sawmill Thrill's theme expresses the journey you're on throughout the level. And even when they reuse Jungle Hijinx or the barrel ride theme, David Wise makes each remix sound like a completely different song. -I never see anyone talk about this, but the sound effects are superb. There is nothing more satisfying than jumping on an enemy and hearing that "*pa-CLOK!*" noise. -And finally, I feel second-hand nostalgic attachment to the game. I used to rent DKC Returns at the library every other week when I was little. I played it with my little brother, and it was one of the few times in my life where I felt like we were both having fun. Of course, being an 8yo, he wasn't exactly "the best" at video games, but he could piggyback if it was getting too hard for him (piggyback pun intended). He felt so happy when we beat the game. Seeing all the subtle hints from Returns in this game legitimately made me cry. The dinosaur fossils in the cliff level, Mama Bat, that giant octopus that everyone collectively hates, even Professor Chops; it all came back to me. It was at those moments that I realized those days playing with my brother were some of the best days I ever had, and I didn't even know it until then. Thank you for making this review. It's only been a week since I got this game, but I already know that it has a special place in my heart.
I remember being a kid, like 10 years old. And seeing this game everywhere on TH-cam and I just couldn’t stand watching videos about it anymore I HAD to play it myself. Especially since I played returns as a kid too
I was super excited for this game when it originally came out. It was my first year of college, and I remember starting the download that morning before going to classes for the day. I treasure this game. It's the best modern 2d platformer. Period. The addition of the best Nintendo character, Funky Kong, just makes the best game better.
Juicy jungle is my favorite world for many reasons. The music, especially harvest hazards is amazing, all the enimes each have a proper use and way to make obstacles, a PVZ chomper style enemy, Jelly Jamboree is my FAVORITE level in the game, the levels get colder at the end, Bashmaster is my favorite boss, and I really love fruit as well! Bright Savannah is a VERY close 2nd, though.
Dude, what an amazing review! I'm almost buying a switch just to play this game. I'm playing returns for the first time in my phone on an emulator and I'm loving it!
Dude, just finished watching your whole DKC retrospective. Just awesome work! Was shocked seeing how little subs you have compared to the quality you are delivering. I hope the TH-cam algorithm will hit you like a hurricane ASAP! Keep up the good work!
I should mention, I like your sense of humor peppered throughout your videos. Keep it up! My "Least Favorite to Most Favorite DKC Game" list is similar to yours... although I put DKC3 higher than DKC1, personally. I'll never deny the impact DKC1 had; it was the first DKC game I played and I can play it again any day. That said, I believe DKC3 just simply has more interesting levels than the first game does. Looking forward to your review on Kirby & The Forgotten Land!
I completely understand why people would like DKC 3 more than DKC 1. Honestly, it is the better game overall when I remove my nostalgia goggles, but my soft spot for the first one will never go away and I'd play it before 3 any day. And thanks for complimenting my dumb jokes haha
DKC2 and 3 just feel like such clear upgrades over DKC1 that I could never put any of them lower than DKC1. It feels like half a game in comparison to them.
This video has made me want a Wii reveal trailer with prime 2 music playing with GameCube 2 title card showing like a cinematic movie trailer. Followed by an explosion of applause and cheers at that years e3. In fact, just take twilight princess’s reveal for that. Someone for the love of god edit this magic together.
Completely agree with your list. I still remember getting DKC 2 for Christmas from my dad and him wrapping it up in a giant box and when I found out it was donkey Kong Country 2 I was so happy. Donkey Kong Country 2 is very nostalgic to me cuz it reminds me of a good time in my life. It was my favorite SNES game. It's still one of my favorite games of all time.
Before TF, I herald DKC2 soundtrack as the top in my life . That was until I heard the TF soundtrack. I was blown away. I find myself listening to it again and again to this very day. Yes TF was the definitive platformer. Believe it or not, I still haven't finished it. Too many other games took precedence over this one to the point that I just didn't play it anymore but would still bump the soundtrack now and then. Shane we didn't get a new game on DK's anniversary year or this year when the Mario Bros movie is released. Maybe the reason it's taking so many years is that Retro not only is working on Metroid but trying to possibly trying to think of top TF, but not really coming up with much of anything. Who knows.......
Just finished watching your entire Donkey Kong Country retrospective. I’m the biggest DKC fan I know, and I not only agree with basically all of your thoughts on every game, but the way you explained yourself, and the humour you used… what an entertaining watch. Absolutely earned a sub from me. Great job!
I fell in love the second I started playing and the game just kept getting better! I've bought this for two friends, partially as an excuse to play through it again with them. I don't think I'd ever be able to accurately put into a review how immensely huge a place in my heart this game has, so I appreciate hearing others talk about it. I agree that the bonus rooms are still kind of disappointing and I also never remember to use the Kong POW, but damn if you aren't right about there not being a single bad level and I wouldn't hesitate a second to call it perfect nevertheless.
i just bought tropical freeze and finished it yesterday.....i'm so glad i got this game....i never played returns but i'll be getting the HD version later this year...DK series has always been amazing...but tropical freeze?? i finished world 1 with ease...than got my ass handed to me in 2-1...finishing a level feels soo satisfying! this was my darksouls for the switch and when you died you knew it was on YOU! i said i'm going to 200% and i'm going to take my time doing so. You have trully made an awesome video! thank you!
Recently returned to a Nintendo after being an Xbox guy for a long time last donkey Kong I played was donkey Kong country on the super NES the first one waiting on my copy of tropical freeze should arrive today by Amazon excited to try this updated donkey Kong
I beat the entire main game in one sitting last night and managed to finish it with 99 lives. Genuinely one of the most fun 2D platformers I've ever played. I love every second of it
I'm not much of a metroid head, though i respect the series history and impact. So honestly, the only reason I'm looking forward to prime 4 coming out is so that Retro can finally get back on another DK game because Nintendo doesn't feel like doing anything themselves to fill in the gap apparently. TF is a great time at least to last. And hopefully Funky means they'll add more Kongs next time
The best Game of all time. I got this when i was 6 and I played it so much It is one my favorite childhood memeories. My personal opinion is that this game is the best platformer ( and of all time) and dkc2 coming 2nd. The best level in my opinion are, 5. irate eight, the tension and return of squiddicus is the best. 4. amiss abyss, the music carries this so much top 5 song of all dkc franchise, also its a sillhoutte level, 3.Wing Ding, music carries it, right now listen to the wing ding zipline music and the gameply is sooo good. 2. Rockin' Relics, the music, features, and overall asthetic of the level make it one of the best. 1. Jammin Jams, this is the best level because of its music its top 3 in dkc music, also the rain in the background is soo good, the level itself is a great masterpeice. I cant believe that mere humans made this, only God can create something like this game. (No forest Interlude, and Mining Melancholy Returns :'( )
I remember, last year, this game (re)ignited my love for 2D Platformers, after I replayed it, since Hollow Knight made me addicted to Pogo mechanics at the time. I Wish this game hat Levels, that are centered around this. Unfortunately, since Cranky is only ever a temporary Power-Up, he is only ever required. for some secret exits. A lot of the secret exits are near the end of the Level actually. Despite this, the Movement is great, the Level design fantastic, the music amazing and the visuals beautiful. I actually was so frustrated with the final boss, that I did not actually finished the game.
This is one of the best 2D platformers ever made and one of my favorites it seems so underrated. The music and gameplay is so amazing I hope we get another dkc game this was a great video man plus I didn’t like the easier difficulty so I didn’t get to play as funky until I tried a new game I really like the challenge of it especially the long letter levels
It's either DKC 2 or Tropical Freeze as best Donkey Kong Country game. This one blew me away. Such great design, such charm, I loved it. The only thing that comes close to it, on the Switch anyway, is Yooka Laylee and the Impossible Lair. But that's too close to call. If this is the last ever DKC, what a way to go out!
I remember thinking tropical freeze was amazing when I played and beat it. I grew up on the original games too and freeze is one of the best and a 2d platformer masterpiece
Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze is such a outstanding and incredible video game sequel of all time on so many levels. The gameplay, graphics, and levels was spectacular and phenomenal due to it being unique, inventive, and challenging. It was decent. To this day I still play it and I consider it a classic. It never gets old.😍💯😎👍
Hard mode also changes the Kong letters up a bit, you have to get them all in a single go, could be in different locations but maybe i'm just imagining that part, haven't played hard mode in a few years now.
It's really surreal hearing you talk about how this game had basically no fanfare and tonnes of gamers were disappointed or apathetic about it's release...because I was absolutely foaming at the mouth in anticipation of this game. I was chomping at the bit to play it for years until I finally got a Wii U. I basically spoilt most of the game for myself before I played it because I simply couldn't wait. How could anyone not be madly hyped about this game? It's a new Donkey Kong Country with Dixie Kong, amazing new level ideas, amazing graphics, one of the OG composers, underwater segments, and more! It was basically all stuff that should've been in DKCR. It was everything I was dreaming for the next game before DKCTF was even announced.
I am sad that we'll probably never see a proper sequel to this game, but when you say that you don't know how it can be topped, I can accept that reality far easier, knowing that this game left even its developers at wit's end.
Tropical Freeze is a great game, but I do think your thoughts on the bosses and levels going on for a long time is what resonates with me the most. That coupled with it being a fairly difficult game, at times made it a bit exhausting to play for me. The final boss was a bit of a chore to beat because of this as well. But at the same time, I'm still where you were at the beginning of the video somewhat. Meaning I only played it once, thought it was great and moved on. I do think it's worth another whirl to truly get the most out of it. Great work with the retrospective regardless. I do hope they bring DKC returns to the Switch/whatever future console at some point in the future, but I'm glad we at least got Tropical Freeze.
If this near masterpiece game had the bonus room system of the SNES games and didn't have 26 puzzle pieces in every stage, I'd 100% this game in a heartbeat.
I really like the humour in your retrospective! :) For me Tropical Freeze is a mixed bag. Another TH-camr analyzed the game design and concluded it's one of the best designed platformers of all time in how it builds up the gameplay. Combine that with the fantastic level design and you have the recipe for the best 2D platformer ever. And objectively speaking, this is the best game of the series. For me it didn't click however. The game is plagued with these random difficulty spikes that make the game counter-intuitive. In the level where you're chased by the giant octopus there's an ideal path marked with bananas and when you follow that path you're hit with falling rocks. In the fruit factory you almost need to be a fortune teller in order to know where the next platforms will be. There are the moments that break the flow of the game for me. And it's really a shame because Tropical Freeze has some of the best levels of the entire series like the sawmill and the last level with Rambi, but ow boy, there are a lot of frustrating levels. And I really do like a challenging platformer, but the challenge needs to be fair and in Tropical Freeze it sometimes doesn't feel as fair. It's hard to pinpoint what the exact problem is, but sometimes I had the feeling it was not playtested enough or that the testers didn't dare saying that some things would not work. So for me it's a good game with a lot of potential, but it's overshadowed by the original mission statement of the developers to make a difficult game thereby forgetting that it also needs to be fair.
I really enjoyed your videos. I just finished replaying the 3 first games. If I can recommend something, if you didn't played yet, try Kaze and the wild masks. It's a great game and is the closest of a dk game I ever played but isn't just a spiritual successor. I loved that game.
I hated the controls and felt like almost every death I had was cheap. What stood out to me the most were the times the skinny penguin arms spontaneously reached out FROM BEHIND and gently touched me causing an instant KO while I was on one heart. Or that an owl wing some how causes damage even when landing on top of it.
My favorite 2D platformer and I haven’t even played the other games in the series. I probably should but man Nintendo needs some more ports. Also David Wise is like half this game’s quality that man doesn’t miss. Also, also I played the port and luckily played on original but they really should’ve made it obvious the new mode is literally just easy mode.
This is one of my favorite 2D platformers. It’s easily better and more fun to play than any new super Mario bros game (besides maybe the wii and ds one)
I’m really liking Nintendo’s retro-but-not-retro games they’ve been making for the last decade. Including Super Mario Bros Wii U. It is more fun than SMW and I will die on that hill.
Believe me I've thought about it. Smash would be a huge undertaking so I'd need time to plan out how I'd even want to approach it. And I think I'd look at NSMB at the same time I look at other 2D Mario games. Plus I'd probably group all the NSMB's in one video.
Donkey Kong Country Tropical Freeze is the best and what messed up the sales worldwide was the fact that it got delayed twice and it was being released on the Wii U we all know what happened with that if Tropical Freeze was released in 2018 for the Nintendo switch in my opinion it would have sold like hot cakes but I do feel like k rool and his army should have returned for Donkey Kong Country Returns that was a disappointment 💯💯💯💯
I beat Donkey Kong Tropical Freeze I even 200% it it on the Wii U though one hit no barrels I beat every single level wasn't worth it only got a message saying now was that hard that's it
I don't know....the graphics style is not how I feel when I see Snes graphics. It's like something is missing, it seems somehow cheaper than the Snes in a strange way...
Did you really call Dixie "Trixie" at the beginning? Also I wish they'd port Star Fox Zero to the switch (with the ability to turn off the motion controls)
Was poking fun at one of the quizzes in DKC 2 where one of the options to "Who is Diddy's girlfriend?" was "Trixie" lol. And yeah, a port of Zero with better controls would be neat.
dkc 3 i dont understand how anyone likes. a big baby gorilla and easy puzzels. now on the other hand Tropical Freeze is indeed the best platformer of all time.
I actually fall off so hard when I'm replaying DKC and end up on the 3D ones. There is something about the controls that, coming fresh off the old ones, feels awful. This game is heavy and slippery and I've just never gotten used to it no matter how many times I finish it.
That one hit death is very hard and is not worth doing you only get a message I couldn't even brag about it because not everybody wanted the Wii U even though I thought it was a good system but it's not like I could brag so I did it for no reason at all just to get a damn message
I did everything and delete Kong Tropical Freeze I guarantee you they was not worth it I collected all of the red ones and I think in the difficulty mode where you only get one hit I think they're green and I collected every single one of them 200% the game and it wasn't worth it
This game has a lot of moronic design choices which is very surprising to me as I heard people applaud this game more than the original it has less quite less levels so you would expect the quality of the levels would be significantly higher and creative but aside from 1-2 levels in each world it feels too much of the same and they didn’t even put effort in certain bits with jigsaw placement/puzzles etc. One of the worst things about this game is how moronic it is just to get the game to start. The loading time is absurd especially the cloud thing which also forces you to look away from t eh screen as it’s an annoying loading screen. The worst bit might be that it requires 7 button presses to just get to that loading screen though from the starting menu. Also another bad design choice is when you die in a game like this you just want to be able to start quickly again but the developers thought it would be a good idea to not start the donkey on the ground but on a balloon instead which requires a button press and after that you most likely have to press again to jump so that’s 2 press to just get the damn game running again. This is worst when the death checkpoint is placed near a rocket barrel though because you have to press twice and then mash the damn button every time to get the barrel going.
I think the fact you insist on putting Super Metroid above Dread, and DKC2 above Tropical Freeze speaks to your bias toward older games. There's just no way Super Metroid holds up against Dread, neither does DKC2 hold up against Tropical Freeze. And I say that as someone who grew up with DKC2 as my fave of all time
Super Metroid definitely has a lot of advantages over Dread. While the base controls aren't as smooth (Dread's is better) its high skill ceiling tricks are more numerous and satisfying to pull off (e.g. wall bounce, mockball). SM has much better music than Dread. Its environments are a lot more varied and interesting, while Dread's are bland. The exploration Metroidvania element, with the incentive to backtrack and explore, is a _lot_ better in SM than Dread. Also Dread has too many cutscenes and unnecessary instances where it takes control away from the player. With that said, Dread definitely beats SM in a lot of aspects. Such as the base controls and smooth gameplay feeling (though SM is a lot better than most games, and holds up well today in that aspect). Dread's boss fights are _much_ better than SM's. It has much better endgame platforming puzzles (shinespark puzzles). And the EMMI mechanic is an amazing adrenaline-pumping mechanic that has no analog in SM. In all, I would say the two games are very close and it's hard to compare. I just wouldn't overlook all the things that (IMO) SM does much better than Dread.
I really am surprised the praise this gets..the controls are so BAD! I guess if you never played the originals you dont feel it but it feels so off to me. I hate 'tapping" the button to run when you used to just hold the button down. You mentioned "well crafted" yes graphics are amazing and the level ideas are grand but it ays nowhere near as smooth as the originals. This game can be a slog instead of fun I never feel that playing any of the original Trilogy
Can I ask why it's complete shit, not ranting either, want legitimate reasons why. Reality is your opinion means nothing if you can't give justified reasons for something sucking.
@@yeahyeahwowman8099 The controls are horrible. The level design is counter intuitive as fuck. Also there is almost no room for error. you always have to jump from a certain spot to make the most basic jumps, otherwise you fail. that combined with the horrible controls and counter intuitive level design makes the game complete shit.
@@yeahyeahwowman8099 also the under water controls are horrible, vage as hell while the levels require precise controls to out manouver enemies. It simply doesn't work. It's a miss concept. Just try and play the game yourself if you wanna know but I wouldn't recomend it. The reviews are MAJOR bullshit and the furthest thing from the truth !
I wholeheartedly agree, when you truly sit down and analyze this game then you can see that Tropical Freeze is truly one of the best experiences the genre can offer
Seriously? I think this game is crap it's a slog and the controls are TERRIBLE in comparison to the original. Straight let down
??? how@@cgrooney9945
@@cgrooney9945Tropical Freeze is so much better it's not even funny. Only nostalgia blind fanboys act like the originals are better.
@@tetermcthe originals are just as good. I didn’t like Tropical Freeze that much because it changed so much from the originals. It takes some time to get used to and understand just how great the game really is.
@@cgrooney9945a shame you didn’t like it. Maybe give it another try? The controls take some time to get used to, just try not to see it as an old DKC game but rather a new and different one.
DK:TF is the best 2D platformer of all time. Everything from the visuals, level designs and controls, is top tier. Oh and let's not forget the stunning music.
Personally my pick for that title would be Sonic Mania, but this game's pretty damn close
@@mrpro538 That's a very good choice.
It is my favourite of all time for sure but I would also say sonic mania and celeste give it a solid run for its money
Celeste especially does a lot of the same tight nit platforming and incredible level themes as this game and Lena Raines compositions are godly
I agree, though SMB3 is a close second.
Hard agree with you OP. I started playing it on my Wii U emulator. I know this game came out in 2014 and I gotta say unlike returns. This game has aged like FINE. WINE. the visuals are SOOO crisp.
the other guys had some solid picks as well. I See we're amongst gamers of taste. 🧑🍳👌
And that's the end of another amazing series of retrospectives! This game is absolutey incredible. One of the greatest 2d platformers of all time, and one of Nintendo's best creations. It's gorgeous, plays amazingly, has fantastic level design, and oozes charm. I was similar to you that I wasn't blown away with this game at first, but over the years I've come to realize how good this game really is. Great job with this series of reviews man, your stuff gets better and better with each vid!
Thanks man!
Wheres donkey kong land retrospective
And diddy Kong racing donkey kong 64 and donkey kong Game boy color Game Boy advance diddy Kong racing DS
You know, I just finished Xenoblade 2 and was unsure of what to play next, but hearing you go on about this game has made me want to replay it so badly. It's really one of my favorites.
Tropical freeze is such an excellent example of variety. Some levels are bombastic like mountain mania or mangrove cove, others more reflective like amiss abyss or seashore war. The game reflects this beautifully. And the way you travel from the exciting posts mangroves, but then an isolated, despairing DK island covered in snow. This game even if overlooked now is excellent and near flawless.
DKCTF and it’s prequel are games that have aged like fine wine and just get better somehow with time. Truly the greatest revival possibly of all time.
I just got this game for my graduation, and *oh my gosh I have never felt such satisfaction playing a game before.*
Here's everything that stands out to me:
-The enemies are so well-designed. And unlike Mario where you run into something and just... get hurt, the enemies actually attack you. They all have so much expression put into them.
-The levels are designed perfectly. Instead of feeling hard just because "the game is hard", any death feels like it's your own fault, and that you'll succeed if you keep trying.
-Okay, the elephant in the room is obviously the music. The first level in the savanna; that music just seems like it builds up infinitely.
Sawmill Thrill's theme expresses the journey you're on throughout the level. And even when they reuse Jungle Hijinx or the barrel ride theme, David Wise makes each remix sound like a completely different song.
-I never see anyone talk about this, but the sound effects are superb. There is nothing more satisfying than jumping on an enemy and hearing that "*pa-CLOK!*" noise.
-And finally, I feel second-hand nostalgic attachment to the game.
I used to rent DKC Returns at the library every other week when I was little. I played it with my little brother, and it was one of the few times in my life where I felt like we were both having fun. Of course, being an 8yo, he wasn't exactly "the best" at video games, but he could piggyback if it was getting too hard for him (piggyback pun intended). He felt so happy when we beat the game.
Seeing all the subtle hints from Returns in this game legitimately made me cry.
The dinosaur fossils in the cliff level, Mama Bat, that giant octopus that everyone collectively hates, even Professor Chops;
it all came back to me. It was at those moments that I realized those days playing with my brother were some of the best days I ever had, and I didn't even know it until then.
Thank you for making this review. It's only been a week since I got this game, but I already know that it has a special place in my heart.
well for your first point I hope Wonder satisfied you they actually attack you now 😂 well in the way of a goomba biting you for example
I remember being a kid, like 10 years old. And seeing this game everywhere on TH-cam and I just couldn’t stand watching videos about it anymore I HAD to play it myself. Especially since I played returns as a kid too
Amazing video, the entire series was outstanding! I love your passion for these games and it makes me want to play more donkey Kong.
I was super excited for this game when it originally came out. It was my first year of college, and I remember starting the download that morning before going to classes for the day. I treasure this game. It's the best modern 2d platformer. Period. The addition of the best Nintendo character, Funky Kong, just makes the best game better.
I'm always happy to get another DKC game but I'm even happier to get another DKC soundtrack done by David Wise.
14:51
Hey, the Brawl arrangement of Stickerbush Symphony is great!
Juicy jungle is my favorite world for many reasons. The music, especially harvest hazards is amazing, all the enimes each have a proper use and way to make obstacles, a PVZ chomper style enemy, Jelly Jamboree is my FAVORITE level in the game, the levels get colder at the end, Bashmaster is my favorite boss, and I really love fruit as well! Bright Savannah is a VERY close 2nd, though.
Dude, what an amazing review! I'm almost buying a switch just to play this game. I'm playing returns for the first time in my phone on an emulator and I'm loving it!
Dude, just finished watching your whole DKC retrospective. Just awesome work! Was shocked seeing how little subs you have compared to the quality you are delivering. I hope the TH-cam algorithm will hit you like a hurricane ASAP!
Keep up the good work!
I should mention, I like your sense of humor peppered throughout your videos. Keep it up!
My "Least Favorite to Most Favorite DKC Game" list is similar to yours... although I put DKC3 higher than DKC1, personally. I'll never deny the impact DKC1 had; it was the first DKC game I played and I can play it again any day. That said, I believe DKC3 just simply has more interesting levels than the first game does.
Looking forward to your review on Kirby & The Forgotten Land!
I completely understand why people would like DKC 3 more than DKC 1. Honestly, it is the better game overall when I remove my nostalgia goggles, but my soft spot for the first one will never go away and I'd play it before 3 any day.
And thanks for complimenting my dumb jokes haha
DKC2 and 3 just feel like such clear upgrades over DKC1 that I could never put any of them lower than DKC1. It feels like half a game in comparison to them.
100% agree with your overall ranking - and thank you for these detailed & thorough series of DKC retrospectives. One sub more you earned.
This video has made me want a Wii reveal trailer with prime 2 music playing with GameCube 2 title card showing like a cinematic movie trailer. Followed by an explosion of applause and cheers at that years e3. In fact, just take twilight princess’s reveal for that. Someone for the love of god edit this magic together.
Completely agree with your list. I still remember getting DKC 2 for Christmas from my dad and him wrapping it up in a giant box and when I found out it was donkey Kong Country 2 I was so happy. Donkey Kong Country 2 is very nostalgic to me cuz it reminds me of a good time in my life. It was my favorite SNES game. It's still one of my favorite games of all time.
Before TF, I herald DKC2 soundtrack as the top in my life . That was until I heard the TF soundtrack. I was blown away. I find myself listening to it again and again to this very day. Yes TF was the definitive platformer. Believe it or not, I still haven't finished it. Too many other games took precedence over this one to the point that I just didn't play it anymore but would still bump the soundtrack now and then. Shane we didn't get a new game on DK's anniversary year or this year when the Mario Bros movie is released. Maybe the reason it's taking so many years is that Retro not only is working on Metroid but trying to possibly trying to think of top TF, but not really coming up with much of anything. Who knows.......
Just finished watching your entire Donkey Kong Country retrospective. I’m the biggest DKC fan I know, and I not only agree with basically all of your thoughts on every game, but the way you explained yourself, and the humour you used… what an entertaining watch. Absolutely earned a sub from me. Great job!
These reviews are such top quality!
And that "look at this" moment
Golden!
Here's mine:
5) Donkey Kong Country Returns
4) DKC3: Dixie Kong's Double Trouble
3) Donkey Kong Country
2) DKC: Tropical Freeze
1) DKC2: Diddy's Kong Quest
I fell in love the second I started playing and the game just kept getting better! I've bought this for two friends, partially as an excuse to play through it again with them. I don't think I'd ever be able to accurately put into a review how immensely huge a place in my heart this game has, so I appreciate hearing others talk about it. I agree that the bonus rooms are still kind of disappointing and I also never remember to use the Kong POW, but damn if you aren't right about there not being a single bad level and I wouldn't hesitate a second to call it perfect nevertheless.
i just bought tropical freeze and finished it yesterday.....i'm so glad i got this game....i never played returns but i'll be getting the HD version later this year...DK series has always been amazing...but tropical freeze?? i finished world 1 with ease...than got my ass handed to me in 2-1...finishing a level feels soo satisfying! this was my darksouls for the switch and when you died you knew it was on YOU! i said i'm going to 200% and i'm going to take my time doing so. You have trully made an awesome video! thank you!
Recently returned to a Nintendo after being an Xbox guy for a long time last donkey Kong I played was donkey Kong country on the super NES the first one waiting on my copy of tropical freeze should arrive today by Amazon excited to try this updated donkey Kong
I beat the entire main game in one sitting last night and managed to finish it with 99 lives. Genuinely one of the most fun 2D platformers I've ever played. I love every second of it
This the one I been waiting fooooooor
I'm not much of a metroid head, though i respect the series history and impact. So honestly, the only reason I'm looking forward to prime 4 coming out is so that Retro can finally get back on another DK game because Nintendo doesn't feel like doing anything themselves to fill in the gap apparently. TF is a great time at least to last. And hopefully Funky means they'll add more Kongs next time
Busted Bayou is the best video game song tied with the Staff Roll theme from Mario Kart DS
Honestly this just reminds me how badly I want another one of these games. They never cease being a blast
The best Game of all time. I got this when i was 6 and I played it so much It is one my favorite childhood memeories. My personal opinion is that this game is the best platformer ( and of all time) and dkc2 coming 2nd. The best level in my opinion are, 5. irate eight, the tension and return of squiddicus is the best. 4. amiss abyss, the music carries this so much top 5 song of all dkc franchise, also its a sillhoutte level, 3.Wing Ding, music carries it, right now listen to the wing ding zipline music and the gameply is sooo good. 2. Rockin' Relics, the music, features, and overall asthetic of the level make it one of the best. 1. Jammin Jams, this is the best level because of its music its top 3 in dkc music, also the rain in the background is soo good, the level itself is a great masterpeice. I cant believe that mere humans made this, only God can create something like this game. (No forest Interlude, and Mining Melancholy Returns :'( )
You should cover DK 64 and Jungle Beat as well. Maybe even king of swing and jungle climber as those are seriously underrated games.
Just binge watched all the DKC retrospective videos. Thank you for a job well done.
And thank you for watching! :)
I remember, last year, this game (re)ignited my love for 2D Platformers, after I replayed it, since Hollow Knight made me addicted to Pogo mechanics at the time.
I Wish this game hat Levels, that are centered around this. Unfortunately, since Cranky is only ever a temporary Power-Up, he is only ever required. for some secret exits.
A lot of the secret exits are near the end of the Level actually.
Despite this, the Movement is great, the Level design fantastic, the music amazing and the visuals beautiful.
I actually was so frustrated with the final boss, that I did not actually finished the game.
This is one of the best 2D platformers ever made and one of my favorites it seems so underrated. The music and gameplay is so amazing I hope we get another dkc game this was a great video man plus I didn’t like the easier difficulty so I didn’t get to play as funky until I tried a new game I really like the challenge of it especially the long letter levels
It's either DKC 2 or Tropical Freeze as best Donkey Kong Country game. This one blew me away. Such great design, such charm, I loved it. The only thing that comes close to it, on the Switch anyway, is Yooka Laylee and the Impossible Lair. But that's too close to call. If this is the last ever DKC, what a way to go out!
I remember thinking tropical freeze was amazing when I played and beat it. I grew up on the original games too and freeze is one of the best and a 2d platformer masterpiece
Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze is such a outstanding and incredible video game sequel of all time on so many levels. The gameplay, graphics, and levels was spectacular and phenomenal due to it being unique, inventive, and challenging. It was decent. To this day I still play it and I consider it a classic. It never gets old.😍💯😎👍
Hard mode also changes the Kong letters up a bit, you have to get them all in a single go, could be in different locations but maybe i'm just imagining that part, haven't played hard mode in a few years now.
It's really surreal hearing you talk about how this game had basically no fanfare and tonnes of gamers were disappointed or apathetic about it's release...because I was absolutely foaming at the mouth in anticipation of this game. I was chomping at the bit to play it for years until I finally got a Wii U. I basically spoilt most of the game for myself before I played it because I simply couldn't wait.
How could anyone not be madly hyped about this game? It's a new Donkey Kong Country with Dixie Kong, amazing new level ideas, amazing graphics, one of the OG composers, underwater segments, and more! It was basically all stuff that should've been in DKCR. It was everything I was dreaming for the next game before DKCTF was even announced.
I’m glad I found you. Keep up the good work
Thank you, Jesus.
Played the entire game at 4k 120fps with hdr on and it looked so good. A testament to the good art direction.
Good job man! Really enjoyed this :)
That subtle joke about the average lifespan of Gorillas was really good. Great video dude!
I am sad that we'll probably never see a proper sequel to this game, but when you say that you don't know how it can be topped, I can accept that reality far easier, knowing that this game left even its developers at wit's end.
First video I've seen by you and it was really good. Will watch more
I think the reason they never did the original enemies was purely because Nintendo already has a game with reptiles for a main enemy lol.
Tropical Freeze is a great game, but I do think your thoughts on the bosses and levels going on for a long time is what resonates with me the most. That coupled with it being a fairly difficult game, at times made it a bit exhausting to play for me. The final boss was a bit of a chore to beat because of this as well.
But at the same time, I'm still where you were at the beginning of the video somewhat. Meaning I only played it once, thought it was great and moved on. I do think it's worth another whirl to truly get the most out of it.
Great work with the retrospective regardless. I do hope they bring DKC returns to the Switch/whatever future console at some point in the future, but I'm glad we at least got Tropical Freeze.
you're doing a very productive job. my congratulations
If this near masterpiece game had the bonus room system of the SNES games and didn't have 26 puzzle pieces in every stage, I'd 100% this game in a heartbeat.
Easily one of the best games I have ever played! My favorite 2d platformer!
15:08 “frozen frenzy” contains some mining melancholy I think
Gamecube 2 caught me by surprise. After replaying what was said in my mind, I was on the floor. Lmao
It such a Gem with those original games
Nvm found your tropical freeze video will watch it later tonight :) good videos
I really like the humour in your retrospective! :)
For me Tropical Freeze is a mixed bag. Another TH-camr analyzed the game design and concluded it's one of the best designed platformers of all time in how it builds up the gameplay. Combine that with the fantastic level design and you have the recipe for the best 2D platformer ever. And objectively speaking, this is the best game of the series.
For me it didn't click however. The game is plagued with these random difficulty spikes that make the game counter-intuitive. In the level where you're chased by the giant octopus there's an ideal path marked with bananas and when you follow that path you're hit with falling rocks. In the fruit factory you almost need to be a fortune teller in order to know where the next platforms will be. There are the moments that break the flow of the game for me.
And it's really a shame because Tropical Freeze has some of the best levels of the entire series like the sawmill and the last level with Rambi, but ow boy, there are a lot of frustrating levels. And I really do like a challenging platformer, but the challenge needs to be fair and in Tropical Freeze it sometimes doesn't feel as fair. It's hard to pinpoint what the exact problem is, but sometimes I had the feeling it was not playtested enough or that the testers didn't dare saying that some things would not work.
So for me it's a good game with a lot of potential, but it's overshadowed by the original mission statement of the developers to make a difficult game thereby forgetting that it also needs to be fair.
You can react to where the next platform will be in the fruit factory. There's enough time for that, you don't need to try jumping ahead of time.
The fruit factory levels are awful I agree. Easily hardest area in the game for no damn reason
Excellent reviews man
If you’re looking for other phenomenal platformers I strongly recommend the Rayman series they’re really fun
I played Legends and thought it was really good!
@@PGReviews_ I personally recommend Rayman 2 because it’s my favorite game and I think you’ll enjoy it but Legends is a great game as well
@@kruegerpoolthe13th Yeah I've heard that's a good one, maybe some day :)
I really enjoyed your videos. I just finished replaying the 3 first games. If I can recommend something, if you didn't played yet, try Kaze and the wild masks. It's a great game and is the closest of a dk game I ever played but isn't just a spiritual successor. I loved that game.
A couple of folks have recommended that game to me. Will check it out someday.
I hated the controls and felt like almost every death I had was cheap. What stood out to me the most were the times the skinny penguin arms spontaneously reached out FROM BEHIND and gently touched me causing an instant KO while I was on one heart. Or that an owl wing some how causes damage even when landing on top of it.
Just playing the regular Donkey Kong Tropical Freeze was fun without the difficulty Spike
My favorite 2D platformer and I haven’t even played the other games in the series. I probably should but man Nintendo needs some more ports.
Also David Wise is like half this game’s quality that man doesn’t miss.
Also, also I played the port and luckily played on original but they really should’ve made it obvious the new mode is literally just easy mode.
I really like tropical Freeze I thought it was very good
Awesome video! i wish more people would watch it.
This is one of my favorite 2D platformers. It’s easily better and more fun to play than any new super Mario bros game (besides maybe the wii and ds one)
How the hell you gonna complain about OP-easy mode in Returns, but praise Funky Kong is blowing my mind.
GOD DAMN IT I MISSED OUT ON A DONKEY KONG COUNTRY GAME
I play this game on the switch and I noticed DK still takes out the 3dsxl
I’m really liking Nintendo’s retro-but-not-retro games they’ve been making for the last decade. Including Super Mario Bros Wii U. It is more fun than SMW and I will die on that hill.
WHATS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE BARREL WITH THE SKELETON AND THE EXPLOSION?!
5:10 He is our goat
Also at 15:35 this is one of my favorite levels, and it has goated music
Amazing retrospective series you should make a super smash bros retrospective series or the new super Mario bros series
Believe me I've thought about it. Smash would be a huge undertaking so I'd need time to plan out how I'd even want to approach it. And I think I'd look at NSMB at the same time I look at other 2D Mario games. Plus I'd probably group all the NSMB's in one video.
Where can i find this moment 9:20?
I beat this whole game and I’m just learning about this kong pow now? Lol wtf
Donkey Kong Country Tropical Freeze is the best and what messed up the sales worldwide was the fact that it got delayed twice and it was being released on the Wii U we all know what happened with that if Tropical Freeze was released in 2018 for the Nintendo switch in my opinion it would have sold like hot cakes but I do feel like k rool and his army should have returned for Donkey Kong Country Returns that was a disappointment 💯💯💯💯
I beat Donkey Kong Tropical Freeze I even 200% it it on the Wii U though one hit no barrels I beat every single level wasn't worth it only got a message saying now was that hard that's it
The only platformer coming close to Tropical Freeze is imo Rayman Legends
I don't know....the graphics style is not how I feel when I see Snes graphics. It's like something is missing, it seems somehow cheaper than the Snes in a strange way...
nice video
Did you really call Dixie "Trixie" at the beginning?
Also I wish they'd port Star Fox Zero to the switch (with the ability to turn off the motion controls)
Was poking fun at one of the quizzes in DKC 2 where one of the options to "Who is Diddy's girlfriend?" was "Trixie" lol. And yeah, a port of Zero with better controls would be neat.
How dare you not mention tornadosedo in frantic fields.
dkc 3 i dont understand how anyone likes. a big baby gorilla and easy puzzels. now on the other hand Tropical Freeze is indeed the best platformer of all time.
I actually fall off so hard when I'm replaying DKC and end up on the 3D ones. There is something about the controls that, coming fresh off the old ones, feels awful. This game is heavy and slippery and I've just never gotten used to it no matter how many times I finish it.
Every complaint about Other M are all opinions. That game was fine just fine.
Of course, my opinions are just opinions. Nothing wrong with people liking Other M or any game for that matter!
16:25 15:34 19:00
That one hit death is very hard and is not worth doing you only get a message I couldn't even brag about it because not everybody wanted the Wii U even though I thought it was a good system but it's not like I could brag so I did it for no reason at all just to get a damn message
Now can you review the DK Land games and DK64?
I'm sorry, that's just not on the table right now. I'm moving on to other projects.
@@PGReviews_ Fine. Can’t wait to see you retrospective on EarthBound, though.
I did everything and delete Kong Tropical Freeze I guarantee you they was not worth it I collected all of the red ones and I think in the difficulty mode where you only get one hit I think they're green and I collected every single one of them 200% the game and it wasn't worth it
Donkey Kong Frozen Ape?
no
yes
@@PGReviews_ no
Trixie🤨🤨🤨🤨
This game has a lot of moronic design choices which is very surprising to me as I heard people applaud this game more than the original it has less quite less levels so you would expect the quality of the levels would be significantly higher and creative but aside from 1-2 levels in each world it feels too much of the same and they didn’t even put effort in certain bits with jigsaw placement/puzzles etc.
One of the worst things about this game is how moronic it is just to get the game to start. The loading time is absurd especially the cloud thing which also forces you to look away from t eh screen as it’s an annoying loading screen. The worst bit might be that it requires 7 button presses to just get to that loading screen though from the starting menu.
Also another bad design choice is when you die in a game like this you just want to be able to start quickly again but the developers thought it would be a good idea to not start the donkey on the ground but on a balloon instead which requires a button press and after that you most likely have to press again to jump so that’s 2 press to just get the damn game running again. This is worst when the death checkpoint is placed near a rocket barrel though because you have to press twice and then mash the damn button every time to get the barrel going.
I think the fact you insist on putting Super Metroid above Dread, and DKC2 above Tropical Freeze speaks to your bias toward older games. There's just no way Super Metroid holds up against Dread, neither does DKC2 hold up against Tropical Freeze. And I say that as someone who grew up with DKC2 as my fave of all time
Super Metroid definitely has a lot of advantages over Dread. While the base controls aren't as smooth (Dread's is better) its high skill ceiling tricks are more numerous and satisfying to pull off (e.g. wall bounce, mockball). SM has much better music than Dread. Its environments are a lot more varied and interesting, while Dread's are bland. The exploration Metroidvania element, with the incentive to backtrack and explore, is a _lot_ better in SM than Dread. Also Dread has too many cutscenes and unnecessary instances where it takes control away from the player.
With that said, Dread definitely beats SM in a lot of aspects. Such as the base controls and smooth gameplay feeling (though SM is a lot better than most games, and holds up well today in that aspect). Dread's boss fights are _much_ better than SM's. It has much better endgame platforming puzzles (shinespark puzzles). And the EMMI mechanic is an amazing adrenaline-pumping mechanic that has no analog in SM. In all, I would say the two games are very close and it's hard to compare. I just wouldn't overlook all the things that (IMO) SM does much better than Dread.
You were bummed that it wasnt Metroid Prime 4 but then you stopped being a Jackass lol
I really am surprised the praise this gets..the controls are so BAD! I guess if you never played the originals you dont feel it but it feels so off to me. I hate 'tapping" the button to run when you used to just hold the button down. You mentioned "well crafted" yes graphics are amazing and the level ideas are grand but it ays nowhere near as smooth as the originals. This game can be a slog instead of fun I never feel that playing any of the original Trilogy
Hahahaha ! I can only laught at this.
It's the furthest thing from the truth. the game is complete shit !
Nice bait
@@Aronia55 it's the truth. Have you even played this game ?
Can I ask why it's complete shit, not ranting either, want legitimate reasons why. Reality is your opinion means nothing if you can't give justified reasons for something sucking.
@@yeahyeahwowman8099 The controls are horrible. The level design is counter intuitive as fuck. Also there is almost no room for error. you always have to jump from a certain spot to make the most basic jumps, otherwise you fail. that combined with the horrible controls and counter intuitive level design makes the game complete shit.
@@yeahyeahwowman8099 also the under water controls are horrible, vage as hell while the levels require precise controls to out manouver enemies. It simply doesn't work. It's a miss concept. Just try and play the game yourself if you wanna know but I wouldn't recomend it. The reviews are MAJOR bullshit and the furthest thing from the truth !