Donkey Kong Bananza has launched its latest Emerald Rush event on Nintendo Switch 2. The game has been a major hit since its release, selling millions of copies. The DK Island and Emerald Rush DLC give players a reason to keep exploring after finishing the main story.
The new DLC arrived as a surprise. It was shadow dropped the same day it was announced during the September 2025 Nintendo Direct. Priced at $19.99, some fans debated its value. Still, the Emerald Rush mode offers fresh gameplay. It adds roguelike elements where players collect gems against a timer to earn rewards from Void Kong. This mode increases replayability and gives Switch 2 owners more content to enjoy.
Ostrich Riches Event Adds Exclusive Rewards
The newest Emerald Rush event is called Ostrich Riches. It is live now and runs until February 23 at 11:59 p.m. PT. The event takes place in the Forest Layer, and players will need the Ostrich Bananza ability to succeed.
During Ostrich Riches, gamers can unlock two collectible statues. One is the Ostrich transformation, and the other is Expresso from the original Donkey Kong Country. Players must hit specific scores to earn these rewards. Once collected, the statues can be displayed on DK Island, giving fans a new way to show off their achievements.
Why Switch 2 Gamers Are Returning to Donkey Kong Bananza
The event is limited to players with the DK Island and Emerald Rush DLC. Even so, it adds a new layer to explore. Emerald Rush can be played in multiple layers, and the roguelike mechanics keep it engaging.
Donkey Kong Bananza is not the only DK title receiving updates. Donkey Kong Country HD received a free update in late January 2026. Players can now use Dixie Kong and try the new Turbo Attack mode. Switch 2 users benefit from enhanced resolution and faster load times.
With more Nintendo Switch 2 exclusives on the way, the future looks bright for fans. Pokemon Pokopia launches on March 5. Later this year, Yoshi and the Mysterious Book and Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave will also release. Donkey Kong Bananza and these upcoming titles may drive even more Switch 2 console sales in 2026.