Mario Vs Donkey Kong Demo Arrives in Nintendo eShop

One of my favourite 3DS series was the Mario Vs Donkey Kong Minis games. I loved the strategy of guiding the Mario minis to their destination to get the maximum score possible. What I didn’t know until years later was that the series started with a slightly different game.

That game is Mario Vs Donkey Kong. Fans of the series rejoiced when a remake to this Gameboy Advanced title was announced via a Nintendo Direct in September 2023. Gamers can try out a demo of the game ahead of its full release on the 16^th February.

What’s In The Demo

The demo allowed me to play four select levels from the first world. Mario makes his way through levels collecting presents and rescuing Mario Minis. It’s kind of a platforming title but don’t expect the normal Mario moveset here. Actions are limited in a way that makes movement more strategic. Players will need to hit switches, spin on poles and avoid enemies to survive.

The last level in the demo is more akin to the Mario Vs Donkey Kong Minis series I loved so. Mario has to guide the minis through a level, using them to pick up collectibles and avoid traps. Getting as many to the toybox at the end of the level as possible gives a higher score.

Mario Vs Donkey Kong comes with two difficulty settings: Casual and Classic. In Classic levels must be completed within the allotted time. Casual mode is an easier experience, with no time limit and generous checkpoints.

Mario Vs Donkey Kong

While short, the Mario Vs Donkey Kong demo gives a good indication of what’s in store. This game is about puzzles and thinking about what to do next.

Mario Vs Donkey Kong demo is available now on the Nintendo eShop. The full game releases on the 16^th February for AUD$69.95.