Nintendo has recently unveiled a refreshed appearance for Diddy Kong, following earlier updates to Donkey Kong's design. Fans first noticed changes to Donkey Kong in official artwork and early footage from Mario Kart World earlier this year.
Now, Diddy Kong's new look has been revealed through artwork on Nintendo's 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 rounded eyes and a cheekier, friendlier smile.
Attendees at the Licensing Expo 2025 can see the new designs of both Diddy and Donkey Kong, as shared by attendee Cptn_Alex on social media.
Image credit: Nintendo.
Image credit: Nintendo.
Nintendo has not provided an official statement on the redesigns, but they are believed to be influenced by the characters' appearances in the successful The Super Mario Bros. Movie. Even Princess Peach received a slight redesign, aligning her look with her big screen portrayal, as seen on the box art for Princess Peach: Showtime! on the Nintendo Switch.
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
Looking ahead, Donkey Kong is set to star in the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 game, Donkey Kong Bananza. Although Diddy Kong's participation has not been officially confirmed, the redesign and the inclusion of other Kong family members like Cranky Kong suggest a high likelihood of his involvement.
Furthermore, the sequel to The Super Mario Bros. Movie, tentatively titled Super Mario World, is expected to feature more of Nintendo's beloved apes, including the newly redesigned Diddy Kong.
