Donkey Kong
The leader of the Kong team and the primary playable character.
Documented for this version
Which controls does this version use?
Actions
Control Stick | Move the current Kong |
|---|---|
A | Jump |
B | Use the current Kong’s basic attack or context action |
Z | Crouch or use a crouching action |
C Buttons | Adjust the camera and use equipped character functions |
R | Center the camera |
Control notes
Some actions require a purchased move, weapon, instrument, or transformation.
Exact functions of C Buttons vary by character and equipment.
How it plays
How does Donkey Kong 64 play?
Players explore several 3D worlds from a third-person perspective, entering them through portals in the Kong Isles hub. The main objective is to recover Golden Bananas, rescue captured Kongs, collect colored bananas, and gather coins, blueprints, medals, and other items.
Each Kong has distinct abilities, weapons, instruments, and barrels. New moves and equipment open previously inaccessible areas. The game also includes races, shooting galleries, mine-cart sections, boss encounters, a multiplayer battle mode, and playable arcade versions of Donkey Kong and Jetpac.
Plan your run
What is the best way to play Donkey Kong 64?
Explore each area with the Kong whose colored banana trails and switches match the character. Mark locations that require later abilities instead of repeatedly attempting inaccessible routes.
Spend coins on moves, weapons, instruments, and ammunition as soon as they become available. Complete character-specific challenges and boss fights while you are already collecting nearby items to reduce backtracking.
Meet the cast
Who are the key characters?
Diddy Kong
A nimble Kong who uses his jetbarrel and peanut popguns.
Tiny Kong
A small Kong who can use her ponytail spin and shrink ability.
Lanky Kong
An agile Kong with long arms, orangutan strength, and balloon-like movement.
Chunky Kong
The strongest Kong, capable of lifting heavy objects and becoming powerful with special abilities.
King K. Rool
The crocodilian ruler and main antagonist who plans to destroy Donkey Kong Island.
Documented inputs
What cheats and unlocks are documented?
DK64There is no widely trusted universal cheat code set; most unlocks come from normal progression, abilities, and collectible rewards.
Before you begin
What should you know before playing?
- 1
Use the Tag Barrel frequently to switch to the Kong suited to the current obstacle.
- 2
Colored bananas belong to specific Kongs; collect them with the matching character.
- 3
Save banana medals for the required arcade and final progression checks.
Community discussion
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