E3 2013: Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze is Retro’s Next Project

Nintendo finally unveiled Retro Studio’s super secret, hush-hush project earlier tonight: it’s Donkey Kong and he’s back in the limelight, which seems like a great move considering his current popularity riding on the recent 3DS entry. What’s even better is that the game is releasing later this year.

Series fans will be happy to know that Retro is once again taking the big ape, and a few of his pals, on another platforming adventure on Donkey Kong Island. As well as series veterans Donkey and Diddy, the game will feature the ponytail-swinging Dixie from the final game in the SNES trilogy. With her trademark gliding abilities, Iwata confirmed she will add a new gameplay depth to the platforming challenge. Which will probably come in handy, seeing as the island is swamped by VIKING INVADERS.

Furthermore, the game will embrace new camera angles which look simply stunning in motion. Remember in DKC Returns, the camera would pan out and rotate when you were flying around in barrels? Well, now you can direct the characters into 3D space as you play, opening up even more of the spatial awareness that “2.5D” games are known for. Simply put, It looks gorgeous.

So Donkey Kong is returning for another side-scrolling romp later this year. Who’s keen?

UPDATE: We have received word that there is a fourth playable character who has yet to be revealed. We’ll keep you updated.