Donkey Kong Returns HD Update Adds Dixie Kong, Turbo Mode

Nintendo released a free update for Donkey Kong Country Returns HD on January 20, 2026, introducing Dixie Kong as a playable character, a new high-speed challenge mode, and enhancements tailored for the Nintendo Switch 2 console.

The version 1.1.0 patch, available now for the platformer on both Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 systems, expands gameplay options for single-player and local co-op modes. Players can now select Dixie Kong in place of Diddy Kong. In single-player, grabbing a barrel allows switching between the two characters; Dixie's ponytail spin during jumps enables higher and farther reaches compared to Diddy's rocket boost. For two-player local co-op, the second player can toggle between Diddy and Dixie using the left stick on the world map, whether using Joy-Con controllers or other compatible setups. This addition builds on the game's cooperative mechanics, originally designed around Donkey Kong and Diddy.

The update also launches Turbo Attack mode, a faster-paced variant of the existing Time Attack feature. After clearing a level once, players unlock Turbo Attack, where stages play at accelerated speeds with a strict time limit. Successfully completing it within...