Donkey Kong HD Removes Original Credits

Nintendo's upcoming release of Donkey Kong Country Returns HD on January 16, 2025, has sparked controversy due to the exclusion of the original developers from Retro Studios in the remastered version's credits. This remaster, bringing the 2010 Wii platformer to the Nintendo Switch, has been eagerly anticipated by fans for its enhanced graphics and additional content from the 3DS version. However, the omission of the Retro Studios team from the full credits has reignited discussions about Nintendo's practices regarding crediting in remastered games.

The Nintendo Switch has established itself as a formidable platform for retro gaming, offering a blend of portability and a vast library of classic titles. Nintendo has capitalized on this by remastering and remaking beloved classics, such as Super Mario RPG, Advance Wars, and even lesser-known titles like the Famicom Detective Club series. These efforts have been well-received, enhancing the gaming experience for both long-time fans and new players.

However, the decision to omit Retro Studios from the credits of Donkey Kong Country Returns HD has drawn criticism. According to reports from Nintendo Life, the credits only acknowledge the team at Forever Entertainment, responsible for porting and enhancing the game for the Switch. Instead of listing the original developers, the credits merely state that the remastered game is "Based on the work of the original development staff." This approach aligns with Nintendo's past practices, as seen with the Metroid Prime Remastered release in 2023, where former Retro Studios programmer Zoid Kirsch expressed disappointment over the exclusion of the original team members from the credits.

The issue of crediting in the gaming industry is crucial, as credits not only acknowledge the hard work of developers but also play a significant role in their career progression. The practice of omitting original developers from remastered titles is seen by many in the industry as poor practice, lacking the necessary appreciation for the efforts of those who crafted the original games. Moreover, Nintendo has faced additional scrutiny for not crediting translators and imposing restrictive non-disclosure agreements on them, further complicating the crediting landscape.

As more developers and fans voice their concerns about improper crediting practices, there is growing pressure on publishers, including Nintendo, to reconsider their approach. The conversation around crediting is likely to continue, with the hope that it will lead to more inclusive and respectful practices in the future.