Donkey Kong Country Returns HD Removes Original Developers From Credits

Donkey Kong Country Returns HD: Retro Studios Snubbed in Credits

The upcoming release of Donkey Kong Country Returns HD on January 16, 2025, for Nintendo Switch has sparked controversy. The remastered version notably omits the original development team from Retro Studios from the game's credits. Instead, the credits solely list Forever Entertainment, responsible for the port and enhancements, and acknowledge the original developers with a single line stating the game is "Based on the work of the original development staff."

This isn't the first time Nintendo has faced criticism for condensing credits in remastered games. The practice has drawn ire from developers in the past, highlighting concerns about the importance of crediting in developer career building and as a sign of appreciation for their work.

The Nintendo Switch, known for its portability and extensive library of classic titles, has become a prominent platform for retro game remakes and remasters. Nintendo's own efforts in this area include titles like Super Mario RPG, Advance Wars, and even the Famicom Detective Club series. However, the exclusion of Retro Studios from the Donkey Kong Country Returns HD credits follows a similar pattern seen in Metroid Prime Remastered, where original Retro Studios developers, including Zoid Kirsch, publicly voiced their disappointment at the omission of their names.

This practice extends beyond development teams. Nintendo has also faced accusations of failing to properly credit translators or imposing restrictive non-disclosure agreements preventing them from acknowledging their work on franchises such as The Legend of Zelda.

The ongoing debate surrounding crediting practices in the game industry underscores the growing awareness of the importance of recognizing the contributions of all involved. As more developers and fans speak out against these practices, pressure may mount on publishers like Nintendo to adopt more inclusive crediting policies.

![Image: Screenshot of Donkey Kong Country Returns HD Credits (Illustrative - Actual image not available)] (https://img.php.cn/upload/article/001/431/639/173275835843386.jpg) (Note: This placeholder image is used as an example. The actual image from the original text is not relevant to this rewritten version.)