Nintendo has unveiled a refreshed appearance for Diddy Kong, following the earlier redesign of his iconic counterpart, Donkey Kong. Earlier this year, fans spotted notable alterations to Donkey Kong's design in official artwork and early footage from Mario Kart World.
Now, Nintendo has shared new images of Diddy Kong through artwork on their website and at the Licensing Expo 2025 in Las Vegas. As reported by Nintendo Life, the updated Diddy Kong features a more cartoonish style with rounder eyes and a playful, friendly smile.
Attendees at the Licensing Expo 2025, where brands showcase their franchises and seek merchandising and partnership opportunities, have the chance to see the new Diddy Kong and Donkey Kong designs in person. Photos shared by attendee Cptn_Alex on social media highlight these updated looks.
Image credit: Nintendo.
Image credit: Nintendo.Nintendo has not officially commented on the redesigns of Diddy Kong and Donkey Kong, but many believe these changes align with the characters' appearances in the successful The Super Mario Bros. Movie.
Even Princess Peach has received a slight redesign, with her appearance on the box of her Switch game, Princess Peach: Showtime!, resembling her big-screen 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 redesign and the inclusion of other Kong family members like Cranky Kong suggest a high likelihood of his appearance. Additionally, with the upcoming Super Mario Bros. Movie sequel, tentatively titled Super Mario World, and given Donkey Kong's significant role in the first film along with Diddy Kong's cameo, it's expected that we'll see more of these beloved characters, complete with their updated designs.
