Nintendo Tweaks Classic Character Post-Donkey Kong Redesign: First Look

Nintendo has unveiled a refreshed appearance for Diddy Kong, following the redesign of his long-time partner, Donkey Kong. Earlier this year, fans noticed significant updates to Donkey Kong's design in official artwork and early footage of Mario Kart World.

Now, Nintendo has shared new artwork of Diddy Kong on their website and showcased updated brand images at Licensing Expo 2025 in Las Vegas. As reported by Nintendo Life, the new Diddy Kong sports a more cartoonish style, featuring rounder eyes and a cheekier, friendlier smile.

Attendees at the Licensing Expo 2025, where companies promote their franchises for merchandising and partnership opportunities, can view the revamped Diddy and Donkey Kong designs. Photos from attendee Cptn_Alex on social media highlight these changes.

Image credit: Nintendo.Image credit: Nintendo.

While Nintendo has not officially commented on the redesigns of Diddy and Donkey Kong, many believe the changes align with the characters' appearances in the successful The Super Mario Bros. Movie. Even Princess Peach received a subtle redesign, with her look on the Princess Peach: Showtime! Switch game box resembling her movie counterpart, as 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 is set to 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, combined with the recent update to Diddy's design, suggests a high likelihood of his appearance. Additionally, the upcoming sequel to The Super Mario Bros. Movie, tentatively titled Super Mario World, is expected to feature more of Nintendo's beloved Kong characters, complete with their new designs.