Genre: 2d platformer
Developer: Rare
Publisher: Nintendo

The pre-rendered graphics in this game dazzle from the minute the Rare logo appears to the ending credits. They are pretty pixelized due to the hardware's low resolution, but Super NES's large amount of simultaneous on-screen colors really comes in handy here. Staggering amounts of fluid animation bring the various characters and enemies to life. There are tons of special effects too, like fog, spot-lights, and all sorts of other high-tech tricks. All-in-all, Donkey Kong Country's visuals and aesthetic are timeless.

David Wise and Eveline Fischer team up to deliver a bombastic 16-bit soundtrack. Unlike most Super NES games which use the same lousy canned samples, this title uses all custom work to push the sound chip to the max. Some of the songs are pure monkey business, with lots of crazy drums, while others are slow-paced with tons of ambient noises and reverb. The game's sound effects are crystal clear, and often used for comedic effect.

Clearly modeled after Super Mario World, Donkey Kong Country involves moving along map icons, the navigating stages which each have their own twist. The "Y" button is even used for running. The player can switch between the two characters, which also serve as hit points-- when the player is hit, only the alternative character is available. The core physics feel great, but the level design is so-so: stages are almost all totally linear left-to-right affairs, and lack the creativity of the aforementioned Mario title.

Donkey Kong Country is a hardware pushing graphical and aural showcase for the Super NES, looking and sounding like a 32-bit game in spots, low resolution not withstanding. From a gameplay standpoint it's a solid if unremarkable platformer, with basic level designs, some interesting concepts like rideable animal mounts, and a fair amount of secrets to find.