Nintendo has unveiled a fresh look for Diddy Kong, following the recent redesign of his larger companion, Donkey Kong. Earlier this year, fans noticed significant alterations in Donkey Kong's appearance in official artwork and early footage from Mario Kart World.
Now, Diddy Kong has also received a visual update, as seen in the artwork showcased on Nintendo's website and at the Licensing Expo 2025 in Las Vegas. As reported by Nintendo Life, the new design features a more cartoonish Diddy Kong with rounder eyes and a more playful, friendlier smile.
Attendees at the Licensing Expo 2025, an event for brands to showcase their franchises and secure merchandising and partnership deals, can see the updated Diddy and Donkey Kong designs. Photos shared by attendee Cptn_Alex on social media highlight the new look.
Image credit: Nintendo.
Image credit: Nintendo.
Nintendo has not officially commented on the redesigns for Diddy Kong and Donkey Kong, though many believe the changes are inspired by the characters' appearances in the successful The Super Mario Bros. Movie.
Even Princess Peach has undergone a slight redesign. As noted by IGN's sister site Eurogamer, her appearance on the box of her Switch game, Princess Peach: Showtime!, was updated to match her look in the film.
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 inclusion has not been confirmed, the presence of other Kong relatives like Cranky Kong, along with the recent redesign, suggests his likely involvement.
Furthermore, the upcoming Super Mario Bros. Movie sequel, tentatively titled Super Mario World, is expected to feature more of Nintendo's iconic apes, including the newly redesigned Diddy Kong, following their significant roles in the first film.
