Summary

• Donkey Kong Country Returns HD's credits exclude Retro Studios' original development team.
• This continues Nintendo's controversial practice of condensing credits in remastered games, drawing criticism from developers.

The upcoming release of Donkey Kong Country Returns HD on January 16, 2025, for Nintendo Switch has confirmed 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 integration of 3DS content. Retro Studios' contribution is acknowledged only with a brief statement: "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 prominent platform for retro gaming. Nintendo's active remastering and remaking of classic games, adding updated visuals and content, has contributed to this success. Recent examples include the Super Mario RPG remake and remasters of Advance Wars and the Famicom Detective Club series. This trend extends to the Donkey Kong Country franchise, but the exclusion of Retro Studios' team from the Donkey Kong Country Returns HD credits has sparked controversy.

Nintendo's Crediting Practices Under Scrutiny

This credit omission mirrors Nintendo's approach to other Switch re-releases. In 2023, Zoid Kirsch, a former Retro Studios programmer, publicly criticized Nintendo for the incomplete credits in Metroid Prime Remastered, expressing disappointment at the exclusion of former team members. Other developers echoed this sentiment, condemning the practice of omitting original teams from remaster credits as unprofessional.

The importance of proper crediting in the game industry is undeniable, as it significantly impacts developers' careers. Crediting original developers is also a sign of respect and acknowledgment of their contributions to beloved games. Furthermore, Nintendo faces accusations of insufficiently crediting translators, often using restrictive NDAs that prevent them from disclosing their work on major franchises like The Legend of Zelda. Growing public pressure from developers and fans regarding crediting practices may force publishers, including Nintendo, to revise their policies.