Donkey Kong Country Returns 3D: Now With Easy Mode

I'm not going to sugarcoat this, because I suspect gamers and reviewers certainly won't: Donkey Kong Country Returns 3D is Donkey Kong Country Returns put on the 3DS and given an easy mode.

Dubbed the "New Mode," the game has been adjusted for greater portability by basically being less challenging. There are new items to aid you, such as a green balloon which will bring you back to a platform the first time you fail a jump on a level, and a "crash guard," which will protect you from two crashes while riding a rocket or a mine cart. The biggest change is probably that Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong now each have an extra heart, meaning that players can take two extra hits before dying.

If this is offensive to you, however, that's perfectly okay. Nintendo is including an "Original Mode" as well, which is the game's Wii version through and through, made for "those of you who have confidence in your skills," according to Satoru Iwata.

On the new side of things, there are eight new levels and co-op available via a local wireless connection, allowing yourself and a friend to fight over who gets to be Donkey Kong because seriously, who wants to be the loser who has to play as Diddy Kong.

You can expect to see Donkey Kong Country Returns 3D on store shelves and in the Nintendo eShop this May 24th.