The game uses a side-scrolling perspective across themed stages such as jungle, caves, mine tracks, water areas, and industrial locations. The main objective is to reach each stage's exit while defeating or avoiding enemies, collecting bananas, and finding bonus areas and hidden items.

Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong have different strengths. Donkey Kong is stronger against larger enemies, while Diddy Kong is faster and more agile. Players can switch between them, use rolling and jumping attacks, pick up and throw barrels, ride animal companions, and revisit completed areas to improve their completion results. World maps connect stages, boss encounters, and optional challenges.

Use the character best suited to the obstacle ahead. Donkey Kong is safer against strong enemies, while Diddy Kong is useful when speed, mobility, or precise jumps matter.

Explore beyond the obvious route. Hidden entrances, bonus rooms, animal tokens, and other collectibles often sit above, below, or behind normal paths. Keep a partner available when possible, and use barrels carefully because some are needed to defeat enemies while others reveal secret routes.