Nintendo Tweaks Another Classic Character Post-Donkey Kong Redesign

Nintendo has unveiled a refreshed appearance for Diddy Kong, following the earlier redesign of his iconic partner, Donkey Kong. Earlier this year, fans spotted significant updates to Donkey Kong's design in official artwork and early footage from Mario Kart World.

Now, Nintendo has revealed alterations to Diddy Kong through new artwork on their website and at the Licensing Expo 2025 in Las Vegas. As highlighted by Nintendo Life, the updated Diddy Kong sports a more cartoonish style, featuring rounder eyes and a more playful, friendly smile.

Visitors at the Licensing Expo 2025, an event where brands showcase their franchises to secure merchandising and partnership deals, can view the new designs of both Diddy and Donkey Kong. Attendee Cptn_Alex shared photos of the new-look Diddy Kong on social media.

Image credit: Nintendo.Image credit: Nintendo.Nintendo has not officially commented on the redesigns of Diddy Kong and Donkey Kong, though many speculate these changes align with the characters' appearances in the successful The Super Mario Bros. Movie.

Even Princess Peach has undergone a slight redesign. Her appearance on the box of the Switch game Princess Peach: Showtime! was updated to match her look in the film, as noted by 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. While Diddy Kong's inclusion has not been confirmed, the presence of other Kong family members like Cranky Kong, along with the recent updates to Diddy Kong's design, suggests a high likelihood of his involvement.

Moreover, with the upcoming sequel to The Super Mario Bros. Movie, tentatively titled Super Mario World, and given Donkey Kong's significant role and Diddy Kong's cameo in the first film, it's probable that we'll see more of Nintendo's beloved apes, sporting their new designs, in this cinematic venture.