Mario vs. Donkey Kong

Platforms

• Nintendo Switch

  Feb 16, 2024

  ---

  8.2

  playscore

  7.6

  67 Critics

  9.4

  1.26K Players

67 critic reviews · 2 community reviews across all platforms

Critic Reviews

• 

  Switchaboo

  7.0

  Mario vs. Donkey Kong is a fine game. Just fine. It doesn’t do anything particularly memorable, but what it does, it does so well. It’s entertaining on a basic level, and I did have fun, but I’m not going to look back at the Switch library and think of this game as a standout. Not every game needs to be a The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild or Super Mario Odyssey, that much is certain, but as far as Nintendo published games are concerned, this one barely scratches the itch of memorable joy that one would expect from them.

  Reviewed on Switch

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• 

  New Game Network

  5.8

  Mario vs. Donkey Kong brings the classic GBA title back with new crisp graphics, but there has not been enough changes to the mechanics or controls to make this feel contemporary on the Switch.

  Reviewed on Switch

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• 

  WorthPlaying

  8.0

  Cost aside, Mario vs. Donkey Kong is a perfectly delightful, charming and enjoyable puzzle-platformer that doesn't overstay its welcome. Taken entirely on its own merits, it is an excellent game that is a perfect mix of platforming and puzzle gameplay. It doesn't break any molds, but it provides an excellent arcade-style experience with minimal muss and fuss. Only its short length keeps it from being a strong recommendation, but if that isn't a flaw to you, then pop it into your queue.

  Reviewed on Switch

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• 

  GGRecon

  6.0

  Mario vs Donkey Kong is a charming puzzler that’s great in short bursts, but the repetitive formula, short length, and occasionally frustrating controls leave it paling in comparison to other top-tier Mario outings on Switch.

  Reviewed on Switch

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• 

  Pure Nintendo

  9.0

  Mario vs. Donkey Kong is a splendid remake. The updated visuals and quality-of-life improvements add plenty to this already-fun title. The puzzles are interesting and challenging, with plenty of variety to keep you hooked.

  Reviewed on Switch

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• 

  But Why Tho?

  6.0

  For some, Mario vs. Donkey Kong is exactly what those who love the GBA release are looking for. For everyone else, this puzzle platformer is full of rough edges that are a deterrent.

  Reviewed on Switch

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• 

  Gamepressure

  7.5

  Mario vs. Donkey Kong is still a game that kids can easily gravitate to, but its added levels, co-op mode, and revamped presentation makes it a no-brainer even for older gamers looking for a relaxing, not-too-difficult good time.

  Reviewed on Switch

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• 

  Stevivor.com

  8.5

  Despite those qualms, Mario vs Donkey Kong is Nintendo firing on all cylinders. This offers up a simple, but varied, gameplay loop that’ll keep you entertained and enthralled as you play. I’m just sorry I didn’t check it out earlier, in its original form.

  Reviewed on Switch

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• 

  Checkpoint Gaming

  7.5

  Mario vs. Donkey Kong has been remade nearly perfectly, and it’s certainly great for any forgotten title to get an update and a facelift. The platforming is still tight, but the simple truth is that puzzle games as a genre have moved on in the twenty years since the original. That means nothing about it really stands out, either as a puzzle game or a Mario game. Still, that doesn’t mean you won’t have fun with it as you wait for Nintendo’s next main-line Mario.

  Reviewed on Switch

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• 

  GamesHub

  6.0

  It’s not overtly ambitious and there are very safe choices in its approach, but Mario vs. Donkey Kong is still a lovely time – and provides relief in a storm of more complex and frustrating puzzlers. It’s certainly a product of its era, but it works wonderfully well as a callback to simpler times.

  Reviewed on Switch

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Community Reviews

About the game