Nintendo Tweaks Another Classic Character Post-Donkey Kong Redesign - First Look Revealed

Nintendo has unveiled a refreshed design for Diddy Kong, following the earlier update to the iconic look of his larger counterpart, Donkey Kong. Earlier this year, fans spotted noticeable alterations to Donkey Kong's appearance in official artwork and early footage from Mario Kart World.

Now, Nintendo has shared new artwork featuring changes to Diddy Kong, displayed on the company's website and at Licensing Expo 2025 in Las Vegas. As noted by Nintendo Life, the updated Diddy Kong sports a more cartoonish style, with rounder eyes and a cheekier, friendlier smile.

Attendees at Licensing Expo 2025, where brands showcase their franchises and secure merchandising and partnership deals, can also see the new designs for both Diddy and Donkey Kong. Photos shared by attendee Cptn_Alex on social media highlight these updated looks.

Image credit: Nintendo.Image credit: Nintendo.

Nintendo has remained silent on the redesigns of both Diddy and Donkey Kong, but the changes have been widely attributed to their appearances in the successful The Super Mario Bros. Movie. Even Princess Peach has undergone a slight redesign, with her appearance on the box art of Princess Peach: Showtime! for the Nintendo Switch reflecting her movie version, as previously reported by Eurogamer.

Of course this post is popping off lol. 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 game, Donkey Kong Bananza. While Diddy Kong's inclusion has not been confirmed, the presence of other Kong family members like Cranky Kong, combined with the recent updates to Diddy's design, suggests a strong possibility of his involvement.

Additionally, 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, following Donkey Kong's significant role and Diddy's cameo in the first film.