Donkey Kong Bananza isn't on Switch 1, sadly, as it's a Switch 2 exclusive, but there is still a way to play it through via co-op. To be clear, there is no Switch 1-compatible version of the game, so do not buy it if you don't own a Switch 2! However, if you know someone who owns a Switch 2 and Donkey Kong Bananza, the magic of GameShare lets you get in on the ape action with a buddy for free.
But there are some major limitations to be aware of, and it doesn't really compare to the full experience on a Nintendo Switch 2 since you can't play as DK himself. With quite a few hoops to jump through and restrictions, I've explained everything about playing Donkey Kong Bananza on a Switch 1 and co-op below.
How to play Donkey Kong Bananza on Switch 1 in co-op
If you want to play Donkey Kong Bananza on a Switch 1, you'll need to have someone else with you who owns a Switch 2 and the game as they need to use Nintendo's GameShare feature. For this to work, both consoles must also be connected to the same local network, so they essentially need to be in the same room (although you can play online co-op if both players have Switch 2s).
Here's how to set that up assuming you meet the above requirements:
- The Switch 2 player must start Donkey Kong Bananza and select "Co-op Play" on the main menu.
- Select "GamesShare (Local User)". This'll take you to a different menu where you must wait for another user to join.
- The Switch 1 player then needs to open the GameShare app. The icon is a teal-colored rectangle with curves beaming in through the top
- Select "Join GameShare" and then "A Local User". Your Switch 1 will begin searching for a session. Join the Switch 2 player's session when it pops up on your screen to start playing DK Bananza on your Switch 1.
Bear in mind that if you are joining any Donkey Kong Bananza session via GameShare on your Switch 1, you can only play as Pauline since the host must be DK. As Pauline, you get to ride on DK's shoulders shooting powerful singing vocals to smash up enemies and the environment, but you can't move separately, so it's a sort of on-rails shooter mode.
And it's worth repeating that there isn't a Switch 1 version of Donkey Kong Bananza to buy and play, so this local co-op option is the only way you can play this game if you don't own a Switch 2.
While in co-op mode, you may want to turn Donkey Kong Bananza Assist Mode on or off for more help or fewer distractions. You can also check out our Donkey Kong Bananza tips and our Donkey Kong Bananza review!
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