Wondering what Amiibo figures do in Donkey Kong Bananza? Here’s the lowdown on rewards, from exclusive outfits to throwable explosives—and whether they’re worth it.
Amiibo Still Exist—And DK Bananza Didn’t Forget
OK, real talk: Amiibo may not be lighting up collector feeds like they did back in the Wii U glory days, but they’re still out here, doing their little NFC magic—and Donkey Kong Bananza actually gives them a functional reason to exist. It’s not game-breaking. It’s not mind-blowing. But it’s there.
And yes, there’s a new Donkey Kong & Pauline Amiibo that was made specifically for Bananza. That one? Slightly better perks. But if you’ve got a drawer full of random Nintendo Amiibo collecting dust, they’ll still do something in-game.
Let’s break it down like a Smash Bros. announcer.
How to Use Amiibo in Donkey Kong Bananza
Using Amiibo is easy and takes like five seconds:
- Pause the game with the start button.
- Tap the Amiibo icon in the pause menu (bottom row).
- Scan your Amiibo by placing it on:
- The right Joy-Con thumbstick, or
- The center of the Pro Controller
- The right Joy-Con thumbstick, or
Boom. Free stuff drops in front of you. Now, whether it’s good stuff… well.
What You Get from the DK Bananza Amiibo (Donkey Kong & Pauline)
Let’s start with the fresh one: the Donkey Kong & Pauline Amiibo, designed specifically for this game. If you’re dropping cash on physical figures, this is the one to get.
Perks:
- Pauline unlocks the Diva Dress (a slick costume upgrade)
- Both DK figures (Bananza, Smash, Mario series) drop 4 golden explosive KONG tiles on the ground
These tiles? Total chaos in the best way. You can:
- Chuck them at enemies like explosive bananas
- Use them to clear groups fast
- Toss them just for fun and watch things go boom
If you’re speed-running or just want a little tactical overkill, these are lowkey game-changers in combat-heavy areas.
What You Get from All Other Amiibo
Got Link? Samus? Waluigi? A random Animal Crossing villager? Yep—they work too. But don’t expect much.
What Happens:
- A random sphere spawns at your feet
- Material type is random: stone, glass, wood, etc.
- You can turf surf on it or throw it like a weapon
That’s it. No outfits. No power-ups. Just a glorified beach ball made of minerals.
Use Case:
If you’re out of terrain, out of options, and just need something to chuck at an enemy or ride to a far platform, these spheres can actually be clutch. Otherwise? Meh.
Is the Amiibo-Only Diva Dress Really Exclusive?
Not exactly. You can unlock the Diva Dress for Pauline through regular gameplay—you just gotta work for it. The Amiibo just gives you early access, like a fancy pre-order bonus you scan.
So if you’re not into plastic collectibles? No FOMO here. Nothing’s permanently locked behind NFC.
Should You Bother?
Let’s break it down with the gamer logic:
- Own DK Amiibo already?
Scan it. Explosive tiles are too good not to. - Got non-DK Amiibo?
If you’re in a pinch, they might help. But don’t expect miracles. - Thinking of buying the DK & Pauline Amiibo?
Only if you’re into Amiibo or want the exclusive flair early. Otherwise, you’re fine grinding for that costume like a real Kong.
Amiibo in Donkey Kong Bananza are like side dishes. Nice to have. Occasionally spicy. But definitely not the main course. If you’ve got them, go nuts. If not? No sweat—you’re not missing anything major.
But those golden KONG tiles? Not gonna lie—they slap.
Also check:
Hangin’ on Roof Road in Donkey Kong Bananza: Complete Walkthrough & All 3 Banandium Gems
Pop Party Guide – All Banandium Gems in Lagoon Layer Challenge Course 3 (SL102)
Donkey Kong Bananza: All Banandium Gem Locations in Lagoon Layer SL102
