Country Returns breathed life back into the franchise and was considered the spiritual successor of the original Donkey Kong: Country trilogy from the Super Nintendo era. From the 2D platforming to its cartoon style, Retro Studios stayed true to the essence of the classic games while introducing new elements.

Donkey Kong Country Returns HD's perceived snub of the development team at Retro Studios is addressed in a statement by Nintendo.

Understand there are times where you'll want to throw your controller against a wall -- Donkey Kong Country Returns is not a cakewalk. It's a hardcore challenge for the hardcore gamer, and because of its difficulty,