Nintendo has unveiled a fresh, revamped look for Diddy Kong, following the earlier transformation of his iconic companion, Donkey Kong. Fans first noticed significant changes to Donkey Kong's appearance in official artwork and early footage from Mario Kart World earlier this year.
Now, Nintendo is presenting updated visuals for Diddy Kong through new artwork on their website and at the Licensing Expo 2025 in Las Vegas. As highlighted by Nintendo Life, the updated Diddy Kong features a more cartoonish style with rounded eyes and a cheekier, more friendly smile. Attendees at the expo, including social media user Cptn_Alex, have shared photos of the new Diddy and Donkey Kong designs.
Image credit: Nintendo.
Image credit: Nintendo.
Nintendo has not provided an official statement on the redesign of Diddy Kong, or the earlier changes to Donkey Kong. However, these updates are believed to align with the characters' appearances in the successful The Super Mario Bros. Movie. Even Princess Peach has seen a slight redesign, with her look on the box of Princess Peach: Showtime! for the Nintendo Switch updated to match her big screen portrayal, as noted by Eurogamer.
Of course this post is popping off lmao. Here’s a better look at the new render :) via Nintendo booth @ Licensing Expo pic.twitter.com/QzxJOWs9gF
— CptnAlex (@Cptn_Alex) May 20, 2025
Looking ahead, Donkey Kong will star in the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 title, Donkey Kong Bananza. Although Diddy Kong's involvement hasn't been confirmed, the inclusion of other Kong family members like Cranky Kong, alongside the recent redesign of Diddy Kong, suggests a strong possibility. Additionally, with the upcoming sequel to The Super Mario Bros. Movie, tentatively titled Super Mario World, and given Donkey Kong's significant role and Diddy Kong's cameo in the first film, it's likely that we'll see more of these beloved characters, sporting their new designs, in the next cinematic adventure.
