The new Donkey Kong hits players just days before release

Get ready for a jungle adventure! Donkey Kong Country Returns HD is swinging onto the Nintendo Switch on January 16th. This updated version of the beloved Wii and 3DS classic promises a return to the vibrant tropical islands and challenging gameplay we all know and love.

Interestingly, some gamers have already gotten their hands on the game, as revealed by Nintendeal on X (formerly Twitter). They even shared images of the game's physical packaging, hinting at a strong pre-order demand, with reports of sell-outs in several US stores.

While Donkey Kong Country Returns is a remaster, be mindful of spoilers! If you plan to experience the game fresh on launch day, tread carefully online to avoid any unwelcome story reveals.

This isn't the first time a Nintendo game has seen early releases. Despite these occasional leaks, Nintendo titles remain incredibly popular, and the anticipation surrounding their releases continues to grow.

Speaking of anticipation, the Nintendo Switch 2 is still on the horizon. However, the sheer volume of leaks suggests Nintendo is nearing a formal announcement. Insiders are now leading the charge, with Nintendo itself only promising news by the end of March.

According to prominent blogger NateTheHate, the big reveal is happening this Thursday, January 16th! He cautions, however, that the announcement might focus heavily on technical specifications, with relatively limited details on software and games.