Nintendo Tweaks Another Classic Character Post Donkey Kong Redesign

Nintendo has unveiled an updated design for Diddy Kong, following the recent redesign of his companion, Donkey Kong. Earlier this year, fans spotted noticeable changes to Donkey Kong's appearance in official artwork and early footage from Mario Kart World.

Now, Nintendo has shared new artwork of Diddy Kong on their website and at the Licensing Expo 2025 in Las Vegas, showcasing a more cartoonish style with rounder eyes and a cheekier, friendlier smile. These images, first noticed by Nintendo Life, highlight the subtle yet significant updates to Diddy's character design.

Attendees at the Licensing Expo 2025, where brands showcase their franchises for merchandising and partnership opportunities, can view the new designs of both Diddy and Donkey Kong. Photos shared by attendee Cptn_Alex on social media give a glimpse of these updated looks.

Image credit: Nintendo.Image credit: Nintendo.

Although Nintendo has not officially commented on the redesigns of Diddy Kong and Donkey Kong, many believe these changes are inspired by their appearances in the successful The Super Mario Bros. Movie. Even Princess Peach has undergone a slight redesign, with her appearance on the box of Princess Peach: Showtime! for the Switch resembling her movie counterpart, as previously reported 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 involvement hasn't been confirmed yet, the inclusion of other Kong family members like Cranky Kong, along with the refreshed look for Diddy, suggests a high likelihood of his appearance. Furthermore, with the sequel to The Super Mario Bros. Movie, tentatively titled Super Mario World, expected to feature more of Nintendo's iconic apes, fans can anticipate seeing these new designs in action.