Is Donkey Kong Bananza Hiding Its Main Antagonist? Clues Point to A Plot Twist

Donkey Kong Bananza Antagonist: Donkey Kong Bananza took center stage in its own Nintendo Direct today, offering a deep dive into gameplay, character reveals like Pauline and Diddy Kong, and shape-shifting mechanics involving various animals.

While the showcase covered a lot, including the antagonists, some viewers suspect Nintendo may be holding a few secrets close.

Missing from the spotlight was longtime nemesis King K. Rool, a favorite among DK fans. Many hoped to see his return, but his ties to Rare, now an Xbox studio, have raised questions about whether Nintendo can or will bring him back into the fold.

Theories Swirl As Fans Claim Bananza’s Villain Is A Hidden King K. Rool

Donkey Kong Bananza’s latest Nintendo Direct didn’t bring the news fans of King K. Rool were hoping for. Aside from Amiibo compatibility, the iconic villain wasn’t mentioned at all, leaving many to believe he’s been left behind.

Yet, a growing group of fans remains optimistic, pointing to mysterious clues and developing theories across social media that suggest King K. Rool could still make a surprise appearance.

The most buzzworthy theory circulating after the Donkey Kong Bananza Direct? That Void Kong is really King K. Rool in disguise.

As Sxips points out, Donkey Kong can shapeshift in this game, and Nintendo has a habit of mirroring player powers in climactic boss battles — just like in Super Mario Odyssey.

AndreSegers also caught some curious visuals: vine-like attacks that mirror K. Rool’s signature red, green, and gold colors — and even sport claw tips. Suspicious, right?

Then there’s CaptainQuack64, who spotted crocodile-like carvings on Grumpy Kong’s stone soldiers, with golden croc skeletons dropping after battles. That’s a whole lot of crocodilian symbolism in a game where K. Rool is supposedly absent. Coincidence? I think not.

Donkey Kong Bananza

Also Read: Donkey Kong Bananza Confirms Odd Rock Is Actually Young Pauline