Since Donkey Kong 64 arrived on NSO, the other games I've been playing haven't really had a look in. It's a close second behind Ocarina of Time in my list of favourite N64 games, and now, thanks to 2dos, the minds behind the Donkey Kong 64 Randomizer, we're now getting a native port that works on macOS, Windows, and Linux.
According to the video that's been doing the rounds today, the recompiled version of the DK Rap is coming to us from Rainchus, Ballaam, Killklli and Umed and will feature something that I've longed for in this game - the ability to use the Tag Barrel anywhere. It's such a trek going back to the tag barrel every single time!
And the best part - the project doesn't use any AI or vibe coding!
The new port will take advantage of some new features like widescreen mode, higher frame rates, and mod support. How long do you think it'll be until we get Sonic or Solid Snake running around DK Island battling King K. Rool's minions?
The fact that the team behind the DK Randomizer has worked on this port means that there will be maximum replayability from the native port, with items and collectables changing positions with every runthrough. It'll be a great way to play for fans who know the game inside out. No details of a release have been announced yet, with 2dos only letting us know that we'll be able to play it 'soon'.
For those of you who just want to get back on the game and maybe don't own an N64 anymore, however, I really can't speak highly enough of DK64 on NSO. Playing in widescreen mode is fantastic, and the game runs perfectly. Ok, you might not be able to mod King Kong into Donkey Kong's place, but it's a great way to revisit the game in 2026!
