What makes Donkey Kong Country for the Wii special?

[Runa216]

Where to start?  

First of all, it's the most recent in a line of "Modern Retro" titles alongside Megaman 9/10, New super Mario Bros DS/Wii and now Donkey Kong Country Returns.  (as far as I'm concerned, DK64 doesn't exist).  It pays awesome tribute to the original trilogy in every way.  Graphics/Art Direction are a perfectly updated to modern consoles while retaining the feel of the originals.  the audio is in every way a perfect recreation of the originals with enough of its own spin to be original and not repetitive.  The Gameplay is practically identical with a few tweaks (blowing and the 2-player mode), which is precisely what a sequel should be.  It retained the minecarts, the barrels, the bananas, the bonus levels, letters, and characters  of the originals (for the most part.)  

it's a perfect homage.  

and if that wasn't enough, the game is almost perfect.  It's got a LOT of content, a lot of options, a lot of levels, a lot of variety and a proper challenge.  You can't say that about most games in modern times, not even New Super Mario Brothers Wii.  and to top it all off, the levels are amazingly well made, creative, and original.  

There are only two things even remotely 'wrong' with this game:  1 - I hate shake controls with a flaming passion, this game would be played better with a Gamecube controller; 2 - I don't like the omission of most of the DK clan, animal buddies, and kremlings.  the game doesn't suffer for it gameplay wise, but it is a sad omission.  

easily one of my favorite games this generation.  In fact, I can't think of any I've enjoyed more on their own merits.  I LOVE the Ratchet and Clank games, as well as the Rock Band games, Smash Brothers too.  Funny how Ratchet, DK, and Smash Brothers (kinda) are all platformers...