The much-anticipated Donkey Kong Country Returns HD has finally swung onto our screens, but its release has brought controversy along with it. As reviews started pouring in following the lifting of the embargo, one glaring omission was quickly noted: the absence of the original developers in the game’s credits. Nintendo opted to credit only Forever Entertainment, the team responsible for the port.
This oversight was highlighted by outlets such as Nintendo Life. Their staff writer, Ollie Reynolds, pointed out that Retro Studios, the brains behind the original Donkey Kong Country Returns, received no mention at all.
If this seems familiar, it’s because we’ve seen it before. Remember back in 2023 when the Metroid Prime Remaster appeared on the Nintendo Switch in all its remastered glory? Despite the visual facelift, the original developers’ names were conspicuously absent from the credits, which sparked quite an online uproar. Jack Mathews, one of the original developers, didn’t hold back his disappointment at the snub.
And here we are again, witnessing a repeat of history with no sign that Nintendo plans to change its approach anytime soon. It’s quite a head-scratcher why they wouldn’t at least add a nod of acknowledgment to the original creators. This omission leaves a peculiar blemish on what appears to be an otherwise impressive HD overhaul.
So, what’s your take on all of this? Shouldn’t the original developers be recognized for their pioneering work? Drop your thoughts below; we’re eager to hear what you think!
