3.5/5 ★ – MechaniChris's review of Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze.

Meant to play DKC Returns first, but this one arrived first, so we work with what we have. I’m really glad that Bonanza has done a full graphics refresh because my main sticking point with this is that the graphics, especially in the cinematic, look like an app game. My other sticking point is that this game is FRUSTRATING. I guess it’s not really much harder than the original DKC’s, but the added mechanics combined with the faster pacing and confusing visuals make for an experience that had me tearing my hair out. Not that it’s impossible or anything, I DID beat it. But man, finally killing that walrus made me feel like I defeated a dark souls boss. I’ve now messed around a little with DKC Returns, and most of my gripes definitely originated there. But the added difficulty of ICE levels really got me in this one. At least we can use Dixie Kong in this one. She’s not in Returns and that spinning hair comes in huge handy. All that said, it’s still fun and extremely satisfying to play and beat. I’ll always miss the original graphics, but it’s a fair continuation of a great series.