There is a reason why DK:TF got its metascore in the mid 80s instead of the 90's :p

Yes, and for some reason the Souls games and Bloodborne get 90+ on metacritic. Critics are so predictable in their stupidity.

I still remember the GS review for DKC: TF asking for checkpoints during boss fights lol. I bet they praised Bloodborne for its difficulty though.

That wasn´t the whole reason. There was a feeling of disapointing for DK being the great game of Retro, being shorter than the original, having no big changes or innovations, (not being metroid), repetitive bonus levels, etc  at the end, they didnt see the forest because of some trees. But the fact is that Tropical Freeze is a much better game than returns, and so it deserves a better score.

Im glad I hear it is challenging.
But also worried about the scarce checkpoints.