Nintendo revamps another classic game character

Nintendo has unveiled a refreshed design for Diddy Kong, following similar visual updates to his longtime companion Donkey Kong earlier this year.

Earlier in 2025, fans observed significant changes to Donkey Kong's appearance in both official character artwork and early Mario Kart World footage. Now, Nintendo has introduced matching updates for Diddy Kong through website artwork and promotional materials displayed at Licensing Expo 2025 in Las Vegas.

As reported by Nintendo Life, the updated visuals present a more cartoonish version of Diddy Kong, featuring rounder eyes and a more mischievous, approachable grin.

The Licensing Expo 2025, where brands showcase franchises and negotiate merchandising deals, displays the redesigned Diddy Kong alongside Donkey Kong, as shown in social media posts from attendee Cptn_Alex.

While Nintendo hasn't officially addressed these character redesigns, many speculate they align with the characters' appearances in the blockbuster The Super Mario Bros. Movie.

Princess Peach has also received minor visual updates, with her Switch game artwork modified to more closely resemble her cinematic counterpart, as previously noted by IGN's sister site 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

Donkey Kong stars in the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 title Donkey Kong Bananza. While Diddy Kong's inclusion remains unconfirmed, the presence of other Kong family members like Cranky Kong - combined with Nintendo's current character redesign efforts - strongly suggests his participation.

The anticipated Super Mario Bros. Movie sequel, tentatively titled Super Mario World, will likely showcase these updated character designs, building on Donkey Kong's prominent role and Diddy Kong's cameo in the original film.