Original Devs Omitted in Donkey Kong Country Returns HD

Summary

• Donkey Kong Country Returns HD's credits exclude Retro Studios' original development team.
• This follows a pattern of Nintendo condensing credits in remastered games, a practice previously criticized by developers.

The upcoming release of Donkey Kong Country Returns HD (January 16, 2025) on Nintendo Switch confirms the omission of Retro Studios' original development team from the game's credits. This remastered version of the 2010 Wii title features only credits for Forever Entertainment, responsible for the port and enhancements, including the integration of 3DS content. Instead of a full Retro Studios credit list, the game simply states it's "Based on the work of the original development staff."

The Nintendo Switch, renowned for its portability and extensive library of classic titles, has become a leading platform for retro gaming. Nintendo's active remastering and remaking of classic franchises, enhancing them with new content and visuals, has contributed significantly to this success. Recent examples include the Super Mario RPG remake and remasters of Advance Wars and Famicom Detective Club games. This trend extends to the Donkey Kong Country series, with the aforementioned credit omission in Donkey Kong Country Returns HD.

Nintendo's Crediting Practices Under Scrutiny

This credit condensation aligns with Nintendo's approach to other Switch re-releases. In 2023, Zoid Kirsch, a former Retro Studios programmer, publicly criticized Nintendo for excluding original developers from the Metroid Prime Remastered credits, expressing disappointment at the omission of colleagues no longer with the studio. Other developers echoed his sentiment, labeling the practice as "bad practice."

Game industry crediting practices are increasingly under scrutiny, highlighting the crucial role credits play in developer career development. Crediting original teams in remastered titles serves as a vital acknowledgment of their contributions and dedication to beloved games. Nintendo has also faced accusations of insufficient credit for translators, sometimes hampered by restrictive NDAs preventing them from disclosing their involvement in projects like The Legend of Zelda series. Growing public pressure from developers and fans alike may necessitate a shift in publisher practices, including Nintendo's, regarding proper credit attribution.