The Kongversation: Donkey Kong Universe Discussion
Are you on the hunt for the priceless artifact of Donkey Kong Universe chat? The resident archaeologists of DK Vine, the world's longest-running news and entertainment source for all things DKU, embark on a weekly podcast adventure! The Kongversation digs up yesterday's nostalgia while riding the rails of current events, discussing pulse-pounding topics pertaining to all things Donkey Kong Country and related properties: Banjo-Kazooie, Conker, Dinosaur Planet, Yooka-Laylee, Sea of Thieves, and much more. If it belongs in a Monkey Museum, then the Kongversation is already clutching it while evading the boulder. Fortune and glory? Not for this podcast! And you don't need to worry about not looking. It's audio only! © 2024 File Two Productions
Sun, 13 Jan 2013 01:00:00 GMT
1216 - Remembering E3 2004
"It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of light, it was the season of darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair." There was one Dickens of an E3 that contained enough Donkey Kong Universe games for two cities... and wildly divergent moods toward the futures of Nintendo and Rare. The Kongversation remembers E3 2004 from DK Vine's rhythm-pounded, neon-bathed, live and reloaded perspective!
Mon, 20 May 2024 01:00:00 GMT
1215 - Donkey Kong Country at Super Nintendo World Uncovered
The Kongversation catches up with all the latest news and updates on the Donkey Kong Country half of Super Nintendo World! While the expansion has been delayed until the end of the year in Japan, Universal Orlando has fully revealed its existence for next year's Epic Universe. This includes new details, never-before-revealed specifics, and a fresh international identity for a certain Donkey Kong character.
Mon, 13 May 2024 01:00:00 GMT
1214 - The DKU Draft 2024 Analysis
The results are in! DK Vine's Patrons (https://www.patreon.com/dkvine) have voted on who drafted the best library of DKU games on the DKU Draft 2024 Special. Hyle and Jeff analyze the politics of DKU fandom and what went into drafting the winning team (as well as the losing two)!
Sat, 11 May 2024 01:00:00 GMT
1213 - Sea of Thieves: Season Eleven
We get into all of the features, both exciting and controversial, of the Shmegoobagooba's Season Eleven! Yes, welcome to Worm Week. Rare's doubled it! Number go up :)
Mon, 06 May 2024 01:00:00 GMT
1212 - The DKU Draft 2024 Special
Inspired by the NFL Draft, the Kongversation sits down Hyle, Jeff, and Mitchell to each draft five Donkey Kong Universe video games for their respective teams. With a mad scramble to recruit the favorites, it quickly becomes a mad scramble of gamesmanship and heartbreak. Which captain will score the superior DKU library?
Mon, 29 Apr 2024 01:00:00 GMT
1211 - Gibb Cribs: Banjo's House
One of the most iconic and enduring locations in the Donkey Kong Universe, Banjo's comfy country cottage tucked away in Spiral Mountain has been the starting point of nearly every adventure he and Kazooie have embarked on since 1998. Hyle and Dustin break down the history, and the hidden secrets, of this charming bear den!
Mon, 22 Apr 2024 01:00:00 GMT
1210 - New Animated Film Based on the World of Super Mario Bros. Speculation Center
Nintendo and Illumination have announced they're releasing "a new animated film based on the world of Super Mario Bros." in 2026. The question that naturally arises with such odd phrasing is, will this be a direct sequel to the previous film or the purported Donkey Kong spinoff? The Kongversation champs some popcorn and slanders some Hollywood stars in our debate over the nature of Nintendo's next blockbuster film!
Mon, 15 Apr 2024 01:00:00 GMT
1209 - Attack of the Call Sack!
The Kongversation once again opens up the Call Sack! Our listeners called the DK Vine Hotline at 1-202-630-VINE to prompt us on what to discuss across the wide Donkey Kong Universe!
Mon, 08 Apr 2024 01:00:00 GMT
1208 - DKU Architects: Gregg Mayles
In DKU Architects, the Kongversation examines the creative philosophies behind the minds that helped shape the Donkey Kong Universe. Up first is the design brilliance of Gregg Mayles, the creative juggernaut at Rare who lent his talents to Donkey Kong Country, Banjo-Kazooie, Viva Piñata, Sea of Thieves, and more!
Mon, 01 Apr 2024 01:00:00 GMT
1207 - Character Witness: Tiptup
Hey, it's Tiptup! Believe it or not, Diddy Kong Racing's speedy turtle, who would go on to become a minor character in the Banjo-Kazooie series, was once one of Rare's most popular characters. Learn about the fervent late 1990s devotion to the maestro as we explore his life history on the Kongversation!
Fri, 29 Mar 2024 01:00:00 GMT
1206 - Stop 'N' Swop: A Magnification
Why do a fourth episode on Stop 'N' Swop? What more could possibly be said for the fabled scrapped feature that would have connected Banjo-Kazooie, Donkey Kong 64, Banjo-Tooie, and at least three more of Rare's N64 titles? Steve from off of Rare Gamer is back to take it to the fridge, freezer, or shower!
Wed, 27 Mar 2024 01:00:00 GMT
1205 - Super Mario Bros. 2 and the Donkey Kong Country Fan
The Kongversation discussing a Super Mario Bros. game? What? Why? Because it takes one of the world's biggest Donkey Kong Country fans, as well as one of the world's biggest Sonic the Hedgehog fans, to talk about the virtues of the most maligned and misunderstood entry in the Super Mario series. Hyle and Josh Wallen chat about Super Mario Bros. 2!
Fri, 22 Mar 2024 01:00:00 GMT
1204 - Sea of Thieves: Season Ten
The Kongversation catches up with Sea of Thieves' final months of 2023 with the three big new features added to the game: Guilds, the Skull of Siren Song, and Safer Seas!
Mon, 18 Mar 2024 01:00:00 GMT
1203 - 10 Years of Donkey Kong Country Tropical Freeze
The most recent new, standalone Donkey Kong game is now one decade old. It's a dubious, depressing milestone for any DK fan, but Hyle's joined by The Cartoon Gamer, Malik, to help look on the bright side of things and warm the cold sensation of 10 years wandering the frozen tundra!
Fri, 15 Mar 2024 01:00:00 GMT
1202 - Surprises under Every Tree
Hyle and Cameron discuss Rare's sudden, surprising multiplatform spread across Xbox, Nintendo, and PlayStation consoles! Between five more titles arriving on Nintendo Switch Online and Sea of Thieves coming to PlayStation 5, what does the future hold for the rest of Rare's past and present?
Mon, 11 Mar 2024 01:00:00 GMT
1201 - Mario vs. Donkey Kong (Switch) First Impressions
The Kongversation kicks off its 12th season! After discussing some news about DK Vine up front, Hyle and Dustin get into their thoughts on the Nintendo Switch remake of Mario vs. Donkey Kong. While the original is controversial in certain corners of Donkey Kong fandom, does the remake hit any differently 20 years later?
Fri, 08 Mar 2024 01:00:00 GMT
1147 - New Year's Forecast 2024
DK Vine rings in 2024 for the UK while ringing out Season 11 of the podcast. What does 2024 look like for the Donkey Kong Universe, specifically the Donkey Kong franchise, Banjo-Kazooie, and Yooka-Laylee?
Sun, 31 Dec 2023 01:00:00 GMT
Mini 029 - The New Donkey Kong Country at Super Nintendo World Ad
We discuss the recent 30-second ad for the upcoming Donkey Kong Country expansion to Super Nintendo World!
Sat, 30 Dec 2023 01:00:00 GMT
Mini 028 - Extra Donkey Kong Country Barrel Maze Chat!
Following up on the Spotlight episode for 2003's browser game, Hyle and Josh are back with some surprising revelations about Donkey Kong Country Barrel Maze and Skyworks Technologies, Inc., the studio behind the magic! Be sure to watch the YouTube version of this episode at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=00vNYtO3T78 for the full effect!
Thu, 28 Dec 2023 01:00:00 GMT
1146 - Sea of Thieves: The Legend of Monkey Island
2023 saw a unique video game crossover when the world of LucasArts' Monkey Island, the classic point-and-click adventure series, crossed over with Rare's shared universe in Sea of Thieves. Stalwart Rare diehard Hyle is joined by Monkey Island fanatic Dustin and Sea of Thieves expert Jeff to break down all three installments of "The Legend of Monkey Island" and determine if it was the middle ground to win us all over!
Mon, 18 Dec 2023 01:00:00 GMT
1145 - Donkey Kong Country at Super Nintendo World Exposed
Universal Studios Japan has unveiled many of the details for the upcoming expansion to Super Nintendo World entitled Donkey Kong Country. DK Vine discusses all of the major news and ramifications of the biggest Donkey Kong story of the decade!
Mon, 11 Dec 2023 01:00:00 GMT
1144 - Spotlight: Donkey Kong Country Barrel Maze
Donkey Kong Country Barrel Maze was a 2003 browser game licensed by Nintendo to promote Donkey Kong Country for the Game Boy Advance on the Candystand.com website. Explore the history and surprisingly intricate lore of the DK game the general public never knew existed!
Thu, 07 Dec 2023 01:00:00 GMT
1143 - DK Vine Performance Review
Hyle's about a month into his journey as the world's first self-employed Donkey Kong journalist. But where are the checks and balances? What professional can hold him accountable? Mitchell Wolfe returns to the podcast to give Hyle his DK Vine performance review!
Sun, 03 Dec 2023 01:00:00 GMT
1142 - Spotlight: Mario Kart Double Dash!!
We were going to do a two-hour episode but then we realized we had to DOUBLE IT!! The Kongversation looks back at Mario Kart Double Dash!! and the GameCube racer's many triumphs, notorious frustrations, and unique place in Mario Kart history!
Wed, 22 Nov 2023 01:00:00 GMT
1141 - Mario Kart 8 Deluxe: Booster Course Pass Wave 6 First Impressions
The moment we had given up on more than once has finally come to (Booster Course) pass: Diddy Kong is in Mario Kart 8! Along with Funky Kong's addition, the biggest hindrance towards DK fans embracing the most recent console iteration of the series has been resolved. Hyle and Cameron share their initial thoughts on finally getting to play a nine-and-a-half-year-old game with slightly different primates!
Mon, 13 Nov 2023 01:00:00 GMT
1140 - Diddy Kong Racing for Game Boy Color and Dino Island for Nintendo 64
Travel back to Rare's Manor House, circa early 1998, as a recently uncovered document reveals a previously unknown game and new details about the origins of another. Explore what could have been for the Diddy Kong Racing cast in the immediate aftermath of their hit N64 racing game!
Mon, 06 Nov 2023 01:00:00 GMT
1139 - 20 Years of Grabbed by the Ghoulies
Grabbed by the Ghoulies is a brilliant entry in Rare's shared universe and one of our favorite titles. But their Xbox debut has been dismissed and maligned by mainstream gamers since its release in 2003. What's the disconnect between the two sides? Altermentality returns to the podcast to discuss exactly why Ghoulies has grabbed true believers for two decades and counting!
Tue, 31 Oct 2023 01:00:00 GMT
1138 - A New Era for DK Vine
DK Vine enters a new era! Broadcast live on https://www.twitch.tv/dkvine, Hyle's joined by Josh from off of the Geek Critique to discuss what's ahead for DK Vine as the hub for Donkey Kong Universe fandom in the weeks, months, and hopefully years to come!
Thu, 26 Oct 2023 01:00:00 GMT
1137 - Sea of Thieves: Season Nine
Sea of Thieves' Season Nine was its longest yet. Stretched out over seven months, it was intended to be a lowkey series of updates focused on quality-of-life improvements that, due to delays for future content, bore the weight of much of Rare's 2023. However, it wasn't without its charms! Hyle and Jeff check in with Rare's ongoing pirate adventure!
Tue, 17 Oct 2023 01:00:00 GMT
1136 - Destination DKU: Autumn Heights
It's autumn! Crisp air, pumpkin-flavored beverages and desserts, and all the cider your supple little cheeks can swallow. And what better place to spend the fall than the island in the Rare Archipelago most associated with it? Hyle and Dustin celebrate Oktoberfest in Autumn Heights!
Mon, 09 Oct 2023 01:00:00 GMT
Mini 027 - Mario Kart Tour's Last Vibes
Hyle and Cameron discuss the end of new content in Mario Kart Tour, the strange melancholy of it, and what it and the end of the Booster Course Pass could mean for the future of Mario Kart!
Mon, 02 Oct 2023 01:00:00 GMT
1135 - Why Banjo-Kazooie: Grunty's Revenge Still Matters
Banjo-Kazooie: Grunty's Revenge. Overlooked. Dismissed. Forgotten. And... vitally important to the history of Banjo-Kazooie? Hyle and Dustin honor the Game Boy Advance midquel in light of its 20th anniversary, examining why the underrated gem means so much to the hardcore Banjo-Kazooie and DKU fandoms!
Mon, 25 Sep 2023 01:00:00 GMT
1134 - Talk Like a Pirate Day 2023
Stinky Ape Summer comes to a close with our annual Talk Like a Pirate Day episode! This time, Hyle and Dustin pick up a discussion they started back in June about Rare, Rare's legacy, and how they could do a better job in honoring it. The answer? Put Captain Blackeye in Sea of Thieves!
Tue, 19 Sep 2023 01:00:00 GMT
1133 - September 2023 Nintendo Direct
Broadcasted live on DK Vine's Twitch channel at https://twitch.tv/dkvine, Hyle and Josh from off of the Geek Critique discuss the September 2023 Nintendo Direct! From a leak that unnecessarily raised expectations to a nine-year drama ending in victory, few Nintendo Directs ran the full gamut of emotions for Donkey Kong fans!
Mon, 18 Sep 2023 01:00:00 GMT
1132 - Making Peace with the Donkey Kong Country Cartoon
Having recently passed the 25th anniversary of the infamous Donkey Kong Country cartoon's premiere in his native United States, Hyle comes to terms with the adaptation that many fans love and that he's historically loathed. The Cartoon Gamer joins the show to discuss with him how his feelings have softened over the years and why he now respects its place in history. (Mostly!)
Mon, 11 Sep 2023 01:00:00 GMT
1131 - Charles Martinet's Last Laugh
The Kongversation reflects on Charles Martinet's surprise retirement from voice acting in Mario games. What's the hardcore Donkey Kong fanatic perspective on the loss of his frienemy's familiar mouth sounds?
Mon, 28 Aug 2023 01:00:00 GMT
1130 - Everything We Know about the Donkey Kong Country Theme Park
An entire episode of the Kongversation centered on the upcoming Donkey Kong Country section of Super Nintendo World in Osaka and Orlando! Hyle and Dustin break down everything that's known and leaked about the little slice of Kongo Jungle, including all the twists and turns of the minecart coaster!
Mon, 21 Aug 2023 01:00:00 GMT
1129 - Spotlight: Mario Golf Toadstool Tour
Why is Camelot's second console Mario Golf game so beloved by a subset of Donkey Kong Universe fans? Hyle and David discuss the legacy of Toadstool Tour in light of its 20th anniversary, including Diddy's playable debut in a game not developed by Rare. We also delve into the history of DK Vine's infamous "prosthetic golfing fingers" rationale, pinpointing the precise date and time Hyle vomited out the most ludicrous piece of fanon bile ever committed to the Internet.
Mon, 14 Aug 2023 01:00:00 GMT
1128 - LEGO Super Mario: Donkey Kong Expansion Sets First Impressions
The Donkey Kong sub-series for LEGO Super Mario has arrived! Hyle shares his first impressions with Dustin, full of amusing anecdotes about building the characters and playsets, navigating the LEGO Super Mario app, and trying to figure out the all-important question: IS IT CANON?
Mon, 07 Aug 2023 01:00:00 GMT
1127 - The Romance of the Video Game Hype Cycle
The Geek Critique is back on the Kongversation for a lengthy discussion about the most magical time for a fan of a video game series. No, not when you're playing a new game. Before that. The time between the official reveal and release, when your brain centers on this one monumental target of upcoming excitement. Being that it's now been a decade since Donkey Kong fans got to experience this, we look back at some of our personal favorite hype cycles from the DKU's history!
Mon, 31 Jul 2023 01:00:00 GMT
1126 - How Would You Revive Conker?
Everyone has ideas for a new Donkey Kong or Banjo-Kazooie game, but what about the third pillar of the DKU? Being a more auteur-driven series, most people have written Conker off as a dead franchise. But what if it indeed got a new full-length game? In a unique Kongversation, three DK Vine staffers with wildly contrasting opinions on where to take the peeing squirrel all convene for a wild and messy panel debate!
Wed, 26 Jul 2023 01:00:00 GMT
Mini 026 - Donkey Kong's Dokan Holiday
A reconciling of the drama surrounding the "mob_dk" nonsense for Mario Kart Tour and, by extension, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe! The hope brought about by the data-mining of a new Donkey Kong track earlier this year affirmed the belief that Diddy Kong was coming to the Booster Course Pass... and now it's turned out to be something completely different. Where do DK fans (Donkey Kong, not dokan) currently stand with the Mario Karts?
Mon, 24 Jul 2023 01:00:00 GMT
1125 - Character Witness: Squawks
Squawk! How did the most minor regular character in Donkey Kong Country become one of the most beloved and essential characters in the entire Donkey Kong Universe? It's a fascinating tale of Rare's development philosophies and never letting a character go to waste. It's the tale of Squawks the parrot! Bwark!
Mon, 17 Jul 2023 01:00:00 GMT
1124 - Indiana Jones and the DKU
In honor of Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, the Kongversation looks at the very real impact the original trilogy had on the development of the DKU, specifically in how Rare reconceptualized the Kongs for Donkey Kong Country. Anything goes when it comes to lifting traits and set pieces from the classic films!
Mon, 10 Jul 2023 01:00:00 GMT
1123 - 25 Years of Banjo-Kazooie
Banjo-Kazooie has Beak Bombed the quarter-century mark! The Kongversation celebrates with a massive chat about the game's enduring legacy, how the series continues to make new fans despite the lack of new titles, how it's maintained its sibling relationship with Donkey Kong, and, of course, our hopes for its future!
Mon, 03 Jul 2023 01:00:00 GMT
Mini 025 - Donkey Kong's Roman Holiday
When in Rome, do as the Romans do. Apparently, that means swinging a sharp sword around while driving a go-kart. Hyle and Cameron have a Kongversation about the new costumed Donkey Kong variant in Mario Kart Tour while also discussing some dispiriting rumors about what may (or may not) be ahead for the Kong cast in both Tour and Mario Kart 8 Deluxe!
Sat, 01 Jul 2023 01:00:00 GMT
1122 - Spotlight: Donkey Kong Country (Game Boy Advance)
The Game Boy Advance remake of Donkey Kong Country has turned 20 years old in June of 2023! But why does an "inferior" version of DKC deserve a long Spotlight episode and the respect of Donkey Kong fandom? Hyle and Dustin discuss why the GBA version might actually be the most crucial game in DK's history after Miyamoto's original arcade game and the SNES DKC!
Mon, 26 Jun 2023 01:00:00 GMT
1121 - "Not E3" 2023 Nintendo
Broadcast LIVE on https://twitch.tv/dkvine, Hyle is joined by Josh Wallen from off of the Geek Critique to discuss Nintendo's big June 2023 Direct! Did we get the new Donkey Kong game? Nope! Was Diddy announced for Mario Kart 8 Deluxe? Nope! Were there any cool DKU Nintendo Switch Online titles revealed? Nope! So why is Hyle feeling so good about Donkey Kong's future?
Wed, 21 Jun 2023 01:00:00 GMT
1120 - Interview: The Krew Of "Return to Krocodile Isle"
A discussion about the Donkey Kong Country cartoon on DK Vine's Kongversation? Hold your loved ones tight and say goodbye to all you hold dear! Hyle and Cameron sit down with the key creative minds behind the surprise animated short that reunited the cast of the classic animated series. How did they recruit them? What was it like blending them into a more games-accurate version of the DKU? And what vile things did they get Richard Yearwood to say that didn't make the cut?
Mon, 19 Jun 2023 01:00:00 GMT
1119 - "Not E3" 2023 Xbox
Broadcast LIVE on https://twitch.tv/dkvine, Hyle and Dustin are back with thoughts on the 2023 Xbox Showcase! What did we think about Rare's announcement for the big green digital presentation? We also pause to acknowledge the fact that it's been ten years since Tropical Freeze's reveal, reflecting on the heaviness that comes with being a Rare and DKU fan. Why is it so gosh darn hard compared to every other comparable video game studio and franchise?
Sun, 11 Jun 2023 01:00:00 GMT
1118 - "Not E3" 2023 Preview
Broadcast LIVE on https://twitch.tv/dkvine, Hyle and Dustin kick off Stinky Ape Summer and the game announcement season with a look at the Donkey Kong Universe's chances over the next three months. Less blind predictions and more a State of the Union of our fandom, we speak our concerns and express our hopes on everything Yooka-Laylee and Playtonic, Rare's franchises both new and old, and Donkey Kong (naturally).
Sat, 10 Jun 2023 01:00:00 GMT
1117 - Spotlight: Mario Kart Super Circuit
The most overlooked Mario Kart? The most underrated Mario Kart? Or a middling compromise between Super Mario Kart and Mario Kart 64? The Kongversation looks back at the first handheld Mario Kart game that bridged the divide between the Nintendo 64 and GameCube eras and also launched the Game Boy Advance!
Mon, 05 Jun 2023 01:00:00 GMT
1116 - Bestia-Rare-y: Merfolk
Hey, remember that time Tiny Kong encountered a mermaid in Donkey Kong 64? That was kind of stupid. It didn't fit the Donkey Kong Universe. OR DID IT? Historic folklore intertwined with further in-game mythology over the next 24 years says otherwise! DK Vine sells out to Disney by analyzing the little mermaids (and little mermen and oh-so-precious sirens) of Rare's shared universe!
Mon, 29 May 2023 01:00:00 GMT
1115 - It's All Relative: Cranky Kong and Donkey Kong
The Super Mario Bros. Movie has reignited a debate for the ages (and a debate about the aged). Is Cranky Kong the father or grandfather of the current Donkey Kong? And does that make the current Donkey Kong an adult Donkey Kong Jr. or his son? And where does Baby Donkey Kong fit into this mess? The Kongversation recounts the complicated, sometimes contradictory history of Cranky and Donkey's relationship!
Mon, 22 May 2023 01:00:00 GMT
1114 - 25 Years of Rarewhere
Rare's beloved classic website, Rarewhere, has turned 25! The Kongversation takes a look back at what made this particular corporate website so special for the fandom, why it continues to influence us today, and all the ways it influenced the lore and our understanding of the shared Rare universe!
Mon, 15 May 2023 01:00:00 GMT
1113 - Here Comes LEGO Donkey Kong!
The Kongversation discusses the four new Donkey Kong sets coming to LEGO Super Mario! The surprises, the references, and even the hidden lore of the upcoming expansion to the sprawling toy series!
Mon, 08 May 2023 01:00:00 GMT
1112 - Call Sack: The Super Mario Bros. Movie
It's another spoiler-filled episode on the Super Mario Bros. Movie as Hyle is joined by The Cartoon Gamer himself, MALIK! They're opening the show up to our listeners, who have called in to ask for our opinions on the role of the Kongs in the movie, the potential possibilities for the Donkey Kong film, and much more!
Tue, 02 May 2023 01:00:00 GMT
1111 - Destination DKU: Kongo Jungle
Go back to World 1 for episode 1111 and learn all about the home of Donkey Kong and most of his friends and family: the Kongo Jungle! The Kongversation gets into the weeds on this audio expedition, discussing the real-world influences of the iconic locale and uncovering inane minutiae like where the tennis courts in Mario Tennis games are located and what is actually the true source of the Kongo River. Hyle took extra cocaine for this one! (It is not a product of the Kongo Jungle.)
Wed, 26 Apr 2023 01:00:00 GMT
Mini 024 - Funky Kong on Saturday Night Live
What's up, Colin? What's up, LADIES? Hyle and Jeff discuss the surreal experience of Funky Kong appearing on Saturday Night Live's Weekend Update!
Thu, 20 Apr 2023 01:00:00 GMT
1110 - Character Witness: Swanky Kong
With a renewed interest in every Kong both famous and obscure, the public wants to know everything there is to know about Swanky Kong! Luckily, DK Vine indeed knows everything there is to know about the gaudy gorilla game show host. Hyle and Dustin welcome Swanky to our own version of "This Is Your Life"... Character Witness!
Mon, 17 Apr 2023 01:00:00 GMT
1109 - The Super Mario Bros. Movie: A Film Critique
Broadcast live on https://www.twitch.tv/dkvine, it's our massive four-person, four-hour roundtable discussion of the Super Mario Bros. Movie! We spoil everything by getting into all of the film's triumphs and flaws... and all of that Donkey Kong content.
Mon, 10 Apr 2023 01:00:00 GMT
1108 - Stop 'N' Swop: A Summation
In our third episode on the legendary scrapped Stop 'N' Swop feature, Steve from off of Rare Gamer returns to discuss even more details that have recently been unearthed! What do Banjo-Kazooie cartridges emit in their search for compatible games? How would Banjo-Kazooie have connected to Donkey Kong 64, and what does it have to do with Crystal Caves and the mystery pillar in Creepy Castle? We finally have some tangible answers!
Mon, 03 Apr 2023 01:00:00 GMT
1107 - Donkey Kong: The Lost Years
Very specific rumors have begun spreading across the Internet about the abandoned Donkey Kong game from 2016 that DK Vine and the Kongversation have alluded to in the past. In this episode, we finally divulge everything we know about the missing link in DK history!
Mon, 27 Mar 2023 01:00:00 GMT
1106 - 5 Years of Sea of Thieves
Sea of Thieves pulled a beloved game developer from the abyss and went on to become their biggest success in over 35 years. On this episode of the Kongversation, Hyle is joined by Rare community stalwart Jeph Pérez to discuss how the legendary studio's make-or-break reinvention overcame critical odds to find a massive worldwide audience, the transformative legacy the game has already left behind, and what we hope from it in the future!
Mon, 20 Mar 2023 01:00:00 GMT
Mini 023 - Mario Kart 8 Deluxe's New Vibes
A brief chat about this suddenly exciting era of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe for Donkey Kong Universe fans, where Wave 4 of the Booster Course Pass has brought us two Kong-related tracks with the possibility of a brand new one on the horizon... and the inclusion of at least one more Kong.
Fri, 17 Mar 2023 01:00:00 GMT
1105 - Sea of Thieves: Season Eight
Hyle and Jeff chat about the most recent Sea of Thieves season, which introduced the on-demand ship-to-ship battles as part of the Battle for the Sea of Thieves. They also detail all of the DKU connections from the past four months (great for Hyle!), as well as Rare completely kneecapping the name of Jeff's blog (sucks for Jeff!).
Mon, 13 Mar 2023 01:00:00 GMT
Mini 022 - The Super Mario Bros. Movie Final Trailer
Broadcast LIVE earlier tonight on Twitch (https://twitch.tv/dkvine), Hyle and Cameron give their thoughts on the final trailer for the Super Mario Bros. Movie, as well as some surprising reveals from the Japanese website! Hear the exact moment we found out that another Kong has surfaced!
Thu, 09 Mar 2023 01:00:00 GMT
1104 - Clive 'N' Wrench First Impressions
CLIVE! WRENCH! Come on over and hear our first full post-game discussion on Clive 'N' Wrench! The new indie 3D platformer has gotten a somewhat mixed reaction, yet it's already picked up a devoted following among aficionados of the genre. Hyle and Cameron share their thoughts on the first four worlds (and the DKU connections therein)!
Mon, 06 Mar 2023 01:00:00 GMT
1103 - Super Mario Bros. Movie Miscellany
In this brief time betwixt the full-length and final trailer for the Super Mario Bros. Movie, Hyle and Jeff have a Kongversation about all of the little bits of news relating to Donkey and Cranky Kong's appearance in the film. Their voices! DK Island's portrayal! Leaked merchandise! We also take a detour to Brooklyn to discuss the film's nostalgia-heavy marketing!
Mon, 27 Feb 2023 01:00:00 GMT
1102 - February 2023 Nintendo Direct
A Nintendo Direct lacking significant Donkey Kong Universe news is usually not a reason for DK Vine to celebrate, but Hyle and Dustin explain how the February 2023 presentation sneakily laid out several promising developments for the future of the Kongs!
Mon, 20 Feb 2023 01:00:00 GMT
1101 - Interview: Rob Wass of Clive 'N' Wrench
The Kongversation kicks off its second decade by talking with someone who knows a thing or two about time: Rob Wass, the architect behind the upcoming 3D platformer (and certified DKU adventure) Clive 'N' Wrench!
Mon, 13 Feb 2023 01:00:00 GMT
1045 - New Year's Forecast 2023
DK Vine rings out 2022 for the birthplace of the Donkey Kong Universe while ringing in the new of 2023. What will the year ahead look like for Donkey Kong, Rare, and Playtonic?
Sat, 31 Dec 2022 01:00:00 GMT
1044 - DKU Tribunal Special Session: Kameo: Elements of Power
In the final DKU Tribunal Special Session of the season, Hyle and Dustin relitigate the case for Kameo: Element of Power's inclusion in the Donkey Kong Universe! Has Rare's 2005 Xbox 360 launch title been hiding a firm character-based connection to the DKU all along?
Fri, 30 Dec 2022 01:00:00 GMT
1043 - In Defense of the Nintendo 64
A narrative has begun to take hold in online discourse claiming that the Nintendo 64 was an outright failure. And while this might be true in Japan, it's not speaking to the full story around the world. Josh Wallen from off of the Geek Critique returns to defend the most powerful console of the mid-1990s!
Mon, 19 Dec 2022 01:00:00 GMT
Mini 021 - Mario Kart Tour's New Vibes
Hyle and Cameron discuss the multitude of changes Mario Kart Tour's gone through in 2022! From the removal of the controversial gacha system and the addition of Balloon Battle all the way to the new Donkey Kong-related karts and tracks... and the possibility that new content in the game may finally be winding down (before we even get Cranky Kong, Brash Bear, and Glow in the Dark Lube Funky Kong).
Wed, 14 Dec 2022 01:00:00 GMT
1042 - The Super Mario Bros. Movie Full Trailer
In a special LIVE episode of the Kongversation broadcast on Twitch, Hyle and Cameron give their full thoughts on the full-length trailer for the Super Mario Bros. Movie featuring Donkey and Cranky Kong! They also dive into all of the Kong cameos from the trailer and poster, and break down how the Kongs will drive the plot of the film!
Thu, 01 Dec 2022 01:00:00 GMT
1041 - Sea of Thieves: Season Seven
Sea of Thieves: Season Seven introduced captaincy and the ability to own (and name!) your own ship, finally giving DK Vine its long-awaited Dreadfully Evil. With a 'THE' on the crest and everything. Fight us. But don't, because we'll sink you. Except for when kraken makes inky from its stinky while we're diving shipwrecks. We discuss all of the Adventures and more from the just-wrapped Season Seven!
Wed, 30 Nov 2022 01:00:00 GMT
1040 - Why Diddy Kong Racing Still Matters
It's the Silver (Coin) Anniversary of Diddy Kong Racing! As the keystone of the Donkey Kong Universe turns 25, Hyle and Matt discuss why the game still wields such a huge influence over our fandom!
Tue, 22 Nov 2022 01:00:00 GMT
1039 - Video Game Rentals in the Age of Blockbuster Video
A nostalgic trip to the movie rental store as Hyle and Mitchell reminisce about the golden age of renting video games from Blockbuster Video!
Mon, 14 Nov 2022 01:00:00 GMT
1038 - The Mushroom Kingdom, Donkey Kong Island, and the Multiverse
Inspired by several recent events relating to both Super Mario and Donkey Kong, Hyle and Dustin take an evenhanded look at the long and controversial debate about whether or not Mario's Mushroom Kingdom and Donkey Kong's Donkey Kong Island share the same physical world!
Mon, 07 Nov 2022 01:00:00 GMT
1037 - SKELETONS
Recorded and broadcast live on the afternoon of Halloween, Hyle and Jeff discuss the surprisingly consistent lore for animated skeletons across the Donkey Kong Universe!
Mon, 31 Oct 2022 01:00:00 GMT
1036 - Destination DKU: Witchyworld
Steal some money from your mother's purse and take a trip to Witchyworld, the Isle O'Hags' biggest tourist destination! Just in time for Halloween, Hyle and Dustin guide you through the park's thrills and hidden wonders!
Thu, 27 Oct 2022 01:00:00 GMT
1035 - Spotlight: Star Fox Adventures (part 3)
The final installment of our Star Fox Adventures retrospective sees us discuss some of the more memorable moments of the game, as well as the incredible soundtrack and memorable voice acting, before we process what it was like loving a critically divisive game that marked the end of the Rare/Nintendo partnership.
Fri, 21 Oct 2022 01:00:00 GMT
Mini 020 - Diddy Kong in Mario Strikers: Battle League!
We give our quick thoughts on the official addition of Diddy Kong (and Pauline) in the latest update to Mario Strikers: Battle League!
Mon, 17 Oct 2022 01:00:00 GMT
1034 - Spotlight: Star Fox Adventures (part 2)
The second part of our Star Fox Adventures retrospective goes in-depth into the characters, story, and lore of this forgotten corner of the Lylat System. Who are the Krazoa? What happened with Andross on Krystal's home planet? Which Dinosaurs are the most racist? We leave no WarpStone left unturned!
Tue, 11 Oct 2022 01:00:00 GMT
Mini 019 - The Super Mario Bros. Movie Teaser Trailer
While both buzzed on the alcohols, Hyle and Jeff give their GROUNDBREAKING thoughts on the Super Mario Bros. Movie teaser trailer, which did not have Donkey or Cranky Kong in it. It didn't even have any ass in it, which is what most of our listeners pony up to the bar for here at the Coyote Ugly. But anyway, it's a kid's movie and we're adults with some serious opinions.
Thu, 06 Oct 2022 01:00:00 GMT
1033 - Spotlight: Star Fox Adventures (part 1)
We kick off our Spotlight series on Star Fox Adventures by beginning in 1997 with the launch of both Diddy Kong Racing and Star Fox 64, explaining how the follow-up projects to both would run parallel, intersect, and finally merge to become a single project under Rare... their last console game for Nintendo.
Mon, 03 Oct 2022 01:00:00 GMT
1032 - 20 Years of the Rare Buyout
Do you remember the 24th of September? Yes, the day when our Earth was blown away by the wind into the fire of change. The day when Rare was purchased by Microsoft. On the 20th anniversary, the Kongversation reflects on the highs, lows, and ultimate acceptance of Rare leaving Nintendo... and how despite the odds, the Donkey Kong Universe has persevered.
Mon, 26 Sep 2022 01:00:00 GMT
1031 - Interview: Chris Allcock II (Talk WITH a Pirate Day 2022)
At the conclusion of Stinky Ape Summer, Chris Allcock of Rare fame returns to the Kongversation to discuss what went into writing "Sea of Thieves: Heart of Fire," the newest novel set in Rare's universe!
Mon, 19 Sep 2022 01:00:00 GMT
1030 - September 2022 Nintendo Direct
The oft-rumored Nintendo Direct that we've simultaneously longed for and feared for the past three months finally happened this past week. The Kongversation discusses the return of Diddy Kong, Pierce Brosnan, the 1 vs. 3 Mini-Game Tree, and hand-wringing about the future of Donkey Kong!
Sat, 17 Sep 2022 01:00:00 GMT
1029 - Sea of Thieves: Heart of Fire: A Literary Analysis
Hyle and Cameron discuss the new Sea of Thieves novel, "Sea of Thieves: Heart of Fire" by Chris Allcock! The second full-length novel set in the shared Rare universe is an emotional nautical parable about overcoming trauma, finding where you belong, skeletons being kooky, and a DILF with a mustache who makes the shipwrights go weak in their hulls.
Mon, 12 Sep 2022 01:00:00 GMT
1028 - Was Destroying Crocodile Isle a Mistake?
Was destroying Crocodile Isle a mistake? Not from an in-universe perspective, as we're sure Diddy is still haunted by the nightmares of that fateful day. We're asking if incinerating the Kremling homeland gave us decades worth of plot fallout at the expense of one of the most interesting locations in the Donkey Kong Universe!
Mon, 05 Sep 2022 01:00:00 GMT
1027 - Yooka-Laylee and the Impossible Lair: To the Impossible Lair
Beloved Kongversation co-host Joe Mudd returns to the show to help us round out our multi-year discussion on Yooka-Laylee and the Impossible Lair! We talk about some of the highlights from the last areas of Playtonic's masterpiece, the stress of the Impossible Lair itself, and break down both twist-filled endings!
Mon, 29 Aug 2022 01:00:00 GMT
Mini 018 - More RareRacers Discussion!
We can't put a pin in our Kongversations about Fangamer's RareRacers products. Not when there are TWO pins to discuss!
Mon, 22 Aug 2022 01:00:00 GMT
1026 - Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and Tour's Inbreeding
With both excitement and criticism around Mario Kart 8 Deluxe's Booster Course Pass, two of DK Vine's resident Mario Kart Tour players, Hyle and Cameron, take a look at the interesting interplay between the two concurrent Mario Kart titles. Does upscaling a mobile game's tracks to double a celebrated console game's content really work?
Mon, 15 Aug 2022 01:00:00 GMT
1025 - Banjo-Kazooie and Conker in Summer of ‘97
Take a trip back in time 25 years to a curious three months in Donkey Kong Universe fandom... before the Donkey Kong Universe was even conceptualized! When Banjo-Kazooie and Conker's Quest were first announced instead of Donkey Kong's big Nintendo 64 game, there were hurt and confused feelings. But could there somehow be a connection between the three? We know how the story ended, but this is the seldom-remembered prologue!
Mon, 08 Aug 2022 01:00:00 GMT
1024 - Sea of Thieves: Season Six
Stretching from March 10th to the first week of August, Sea of Thieves' Season Six was a long period full of murder, mayhem, ghost houses, disco tornadoes, and methodical shaming of Hyle and Jeff's work and self-esteem. Catch up on what you've missed in Rare's ongoing omni-prequel!
Mon, 01 Aug 2022 01:00:00 GMT
1023 - Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle: Donkey Kong Adventure (Outrageously Belated) First Impressions
It's also finally here! Altermentality joins Hyle once more for yet another much-delayed discussion on Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle, this time for the Donkey Kong Adventure DLC! But more than just DLC, it's actually a lovingly-crafted Donkey Kong game that, in this vast desert of Kongtent, any DK fan thirsty for some Kong juice would be wise (or Kirkhope) to lap up!
Mon, 25 Jul 2022 01:00:00 GMT
1022 - Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle (Outrageously Belated) First Impressions
It's finally here! Altermentality joins Hyle for a much-delayed discussion on Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle! In the first of two episodes, we recap the long history of Mario RPGs and how they led us to Kingdom Battle. We then chat about how the base game struck us, specifically as Donkey Kong and Rare fans!
Mon, 18 Jul 2022 01:00:00 GMT
1021 - Gibb Cribs: Donkey Kong's Treehouses
Have you ever wondered how Donkey Kong lives? No, no. I mean, have you ever REALLY WONDERED how this tie-wearing, banana-hoarding gorilla spends his days when he's not adventuring or racing Mario? The Kongversation takes a comprehensive four-hour tour of each of Donkey Kong's treehouses and the homes that are often said to belong to him but probably don't. Think of it as the ultimate Airbnb experience!
Mon, 11 Jul 2022 01:00:00 GMT
1020 - Mario Strikers: Battle League First Impressions
It's the return of Mario Strikers! But where's Diddy? Where are the Kritter goalies? Where's the rest of the content? The Kongversation analyzes Battle League from the perspective of the bewildered Donkey Kong fan!
Tue, 05 Jul 2022 01:00:00 GMT
1019 - DKU Tribunal Special Session: Killer Instinct
In the second special Tribunal episode this season, Hyle and Cameron reinvestigate the case of the 2013 reboot of Killer Instinct. We've questioned whether it's part of the shared universe of Donkey Kong in the past, but the results were inconclusive. So what's changed now? And how exactly does it connect to Banjo-Kazooie, Grabbed by the Ghoulies, and the Xbox One hoverboarding game Bleeding Edge?
Mon, 27 Jun 2022 01:00:00 GMT
1018 - "Not E3" 2022 Wish Show
Well, this is weird. Hyle and Josh "The Geek Critique" Wallen imagine a fantasy E3 where almost everything breaks DK Vine's way. A week full of DKU announcements and surprises across the entire spectrum of studios and franchises. Escape from the dreary world to a fantasy haunted spider hotel where your E3 wishes actually come true!
Fri, 24 Jun 2022 01:00:00 GMT
1017 - "Not E3" 2022 Xbox
A weekend of rumors snowballing like some sort of ursine mammal transformed on the ice side of a volcanic island lead to... disappointment! What else? Hyle and Jeff talk about Bear Hikes, bears taking a hike, and the genuinely exciting Sea of Thieves update announced at today's Xbox presentation!
Sun, 12 Jun 2022 01:00:00 GMT
1016 - "Not E3" 2022 Preview
Welcome to the E3 of the mind. With no official show this year but the potential for game announcements, DK Vine's "Not E3" 2022 will combine the thrills of gaming's annual event with the uncertainty of every other time of the year. On this live kickoff episode, we speculate what may be shown DKU-wise from Rare, Nintendo, and Playtonic!
Fri, 10 Jun 2022 01:00:00 GMT
1015 - Character Witness: Rambi
Is Donkey Kong's beloved rhinoceros companion named after Bambi or Rambo? This is about the only thing we DON'T discuss in this episode that delves into the ins, the outs, and the outs made ins by Rambi smashing through walls!
Mon, 06 Jun 2022 01:00:00 GMT
1014 - Level Name Limbo!
What makes the level names of the Donkey Kong Country and Land series so memorable? Hyle and Matt have a lovely little chat about the poetry of the map screen, including our favorites and some memorable interpretations across multiple languages!
Mon, 30 May 2022 01:00:00 GMT
1013 - Extraterrestrials of the Donkey Kong Universe
I'm the key figure in an ongoing government charade, the plot to conceal the truth about the existence of extraterrestrials in the Donkey Kong Universe. It's a global conspiracy, actually, with key players in the highest levels of power, that reaches down into the lives of every monkey, bear, and squirrel on this planet. So, of course, no one believes me. I'm an annoyance to my superiors, a joke to my peers. They call me Spooky, Spooky Hyle, who played Donkey Kong Country when he was just a kid and who now chases after little green men with a Pro Controller, shouting to the heavens or to anyone who will listen that the fix is in, that the sky is falling, and when it hits it's gonna be the shit-storm of all time.
Mon, 23 May 2022 01:00:00 GMT
1012 - Did Donkey Konga Hurt the Brand?
Did Donkey Konga hurt the public's perception of Donkey Kong in the West? That's the claim that former Nintendo of America COO Reggie Fils-Aimé has made, so it's time for DK Vine to partner with the Geek Critique to look back on the most divisive time in DK fandom! Josh Wallen is in the co-host chair!
Mon, 16 May 2022 01:00:00 GMT
1011 - Destination DKU: Juicy Jungle
In the juiciest episode of the Kongversation ever recorded, Hyle and Dustin book a ticket to the eco-friendly island factory of Juicy Jungle! More than just Donkey Kong Country Tropical Freeze's fifth world, it's a location steeped in the lore of Donkey Kong and the DKU. Make like a pig and lap up these audio juices with your ears!
Mon, 09 May 2022 01:00:00 GMT
Mini 017 - April 2022 Fangamer Rare Merchandise Roundup
The return of RareRacers, plus general geeking out over the existence of Great Mighty Poo, Rareware, and DKU merchandise! https://www.fangamer.com/collections/rare
Mon, 02 May 2022 01:00:00 GMT
1010 - Spotlight: Donkey Kong Country (Game Boy Color)
Released on the same day as Banjo-Tooie and effectively replaced only two-and-a-half years later with another remake, the Game Boy Color version of Donkey Kong Country is a relatively forgotten curiosity in DKU canon. But we? We sort of love it. The Kongversation puts the Spotlight on a game where you can't even properly display spotlights: DKC GBC!
Mon, 25 Apr 2022 01:00:00 GMT
1009 - 5 Years of Yooka-Laylee
Yooka-Laylee has turned five! Hyle and Dustin celebrate the Yooka-Layleeversary by looking back at how the presence of Playtonic Games has boosted Donkey Kong Universe fandom over the last half-decade. Plus, we also speculate and share what we'd like to see from them next!
Mon, 18 Apr 2022 01:00:00 GMT
1008 - Jitsu Squad First Impressions
The Kongversation discusses the newest DKU Cameo Game, Jitsu Squad! It's an indie 2-D beat 'em up/1990s martial arts pastiche with guest appearances by Yooka, Laylee, and Rextro Sixtyfourus! Master Ramen requests that you listen. Master Ramen also reminds you that you can't hear the podcast if you can't stop laughing at his name.
Sun, 10 Apr 2022 01:00:00 GMT
1007 - Deal of the Art: Conker
For a character with relatively few games, Conker's had some dramatic tweaks to his art style and presentation throughout the years. The Kongversation discusses the evolution of Conker's look (and his world) from marshmallow fingers to football head!
Sun, 03 Apr 2022 01:00:00 GMT
1006 - Bestia-Rare-y: Jinjos
JINJO! Hyle and Malik get into all of the hidden lore and history of the Jinjo species from off of the Banjo-Kazooie series!
Sun, 27 Mar 2022 01:00:00 GMT
1005 - Women of the Donkey Kong Universe
For Women's History Month, Hyle is joined by Gibbon and Courtney "Altermentality" Svatek to look at the ladies of the Donkey Kong Universe! From quiet trailblazers like Dixie Kong and Kazooie to those who caused flooding on the path (Candy Kong, Berri), it's an expansive look at some of our favorites across the DK series, Banjo-Kazooie, Conker, Dinosaur Planet, Yooka-Laylee, and more! Additional reading: https://news.xbox.com/en-us/2022/03/08/xbox-celebrates-international-womens-day-2022
Sun, 20 Mar 2022 01:00:00 GMT
1004 - Rarenaissance Rarespective
The Rarenaissance era, which we've been living in for the past eight years, has seen the embers of Rare reignite across the games and studios of the Donkey Kong Universe. As the era nears its end and we prepare to embark on what's next, Hyle and Mitchell reflect on the last near-decade of the DKU!
Sun, 13 Mar 2022 01:00:00 GMT
1003 - Sea of Thieves: Season Five
Happy holidays! Hyle and Jeff discuss the holiday season, and a season of change, in Sea of Thieves. As Season Five winds down, we look back at sitting down, talk about eating pounds of rat, question who's the true star of loads, and review the introduction of Belle and the Shrouded Islands adventure!
Sun, 06 Mar 2022 01:00:00 GMT
1002 - The Slush Fun'd: Sabre Wulf
Let's guzzle some tea and have another chat about Sabre Wulf! Hyle has revived his DK Vine Forum series "The Slush Fun'd" to chronicle his experiences playing the Game Boy Advance cult classic, and he and Dustin will delve into all of his findings and theories, including the game's timeline placement in the DKU and a grand unifying theory between it, Donkey Kong Land, Conker's Pocket Tales, Donkey Kong 64, Banjo-Tooie, Mario Super Sluggers, Donkey Kong Country Returns, Sea of Thieves, and... Imhotep for the Commodore 64?
Sun, 27 Feb 2022 01:00:00 GMT
Mini 016 - Banjo-Kazooie on the Nintendo Switch
We give our quick thoughts on Banjo-Kazooie on Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack. The performance, the differences, and the joy of having the Nintendo 64 version available once again!
Sun, 20 Feb 2022 01:00:00 GMT
1001 - DKU Tribunal Special Session: Sabre Wulf
In the first of several special Tribunal episodes throughout the season, Hyle and the gang set out to reexamine if Sabre Wulf for the Game Boy Advance should be considered part of the shared universe of Donkey Kong. It's a twisty, convoluted journey into how shared universes have evolved in the popular imagination over the past 50 years, DK Vine's own rules on the subject, and how it all relates to the weird case of a 2004 GBA game about an old British man getting chased by a wolf.
Sun, 13 Feb 2022 01:00:00 GMT
934 - New Year's Forecast 2022
It's a special LIVE New Year's Forecast 2022! Hyle and Gibbon look into the ORB to see what the year ahead may entail for the Donkey Kong Universe, and then they usher in 2022 for the homeland of Rare and Playtonic!
Fri, 31 Dec 2021 01:00:00 GMT
933 - Imagining the Dream Rare Racing Game!
Inspired by the fervor that Fangamer's RareRacers pins caused, Hyle, Cameron, and Jeff sit down to discuss all of the various shapes and sizes that a new Rare racing game could take and what we would most like to see. Got milk?
Thu, 30 Dec 2021 01:00:00 GMT
932 - Dinosaur Planet: Fallen Kingdom
Since our discussion of the Dinosaur Planet ROM, even more of it has been uncovered. In fact, we now have an entire view of the game's storyline and shocking twists, some of which differ quite a bit from Star Fox Adventures. Steve from off of Rare Gamer returns to discuss the alternate reality that could have been!
Thu, 23 Dec 2021 01:00:00 GMT
931 - Sea of Thieves: Season Four
In the Kongversation's last Sea of Thieves recap of the year, Hyle and Jeff look back at Season Four of Rare's ongoing pirate prequel, which explored the underwater kingdom of the Sirens, saw Halloween and Thanksgiving-inspired events, and... introduced Kremlings?
Thu, 09 Dec 2021 01:00:00 GMT
930 - Demon Turf First Impressions
The Kongversation discusses all of the big news about Playtonic's ambitious plans before focusing on Demon Turf, the new Hell-based 3D platformer published by Playtonic Friends and featuring an appearance by Yooka and Laylee!
Fri, 03 Dec 2021 01:00:00 GMT
929 - Mario Party Superstars First Impressions
DK Vine's love/hate relationship with the Mario Party franchise has been well-documented on the Kongversation and elsewhere, so what happens when we get a Mario Party "greatest hits" package that focuses heavily on nostalgia for the Nintendo 64 trilogy? We discuss and debate the return to Mushroom Village, as well as all of the Kong-based representation in the game!
Sun, 14 Nov 2021 01:00:00 GMT
928 - AfterSmash
Our journey with Super Smash Bros. Ultimate has come to an end. Hyle and Mitchell sentimentally reflect on one of the wildest content cycles for any game we've ever covered. We also ponder what could possibly be next for the Smash franchise!
Thu, 04 Nov 2021 01:00:00 GMT
927 - RareRacers
The Kongversation geeks out over Fangamer's new RareRacers merchandise line, kicking off with Banjo and the first-ever Timber the tiger merchandise!
Tue, 19 Oct 2021 01:00:00 GMT
926 - It's Always Sunny in Donkey Kong Country
The Kongversation connects the dots and lays out the case for why Donkey Kong Country fans should be happy, seeing as how we're on the verge of the greatest time for the franchise since the 1990s. Featuring insights on the purported new game, the movie, and the just-announced theme park! Co-starring Josh "The Geek Critique" Wallen!
Sat, 09 Oct 2021 01:00:00 GMT
925 - September 2021 Nintendo Direct
DK Vine teams with The Cartoon Gamer to have a Kongversation about the big DKU stories of the September 2021 Nintendo Direct: Banjo-Kazooie on the Nintendo Switch and Seth Rogen and Fred Armisen as Donkey and Cranky Kong in Illumination's Super Mario movie!
Tue, 28 Sep 2021 01:00:00 GMT
924 - Sea of Thieves: Season Three A Pirate's Life (Talk Like a Pirate Day 2021)
The Kongversation navigates a four-hour voyage across the waters of chat as we discuss the epic crossover between Disney's Pirates of the Caribbean and Rare's shared universe. Spoilers ahoy!
Sun, 19 Sep 2021 01:00:00 GMT
923 - Interview: D.M. Cumbo II
D.M. Cumbo, the mind behind Dreamprism Press and the author and artist of Yooka-Laylee and the Kracklestone, joins us once again on the Kongversation for a chat about the creation of the graphic novel, collaborating with Playtonic, and why you should VOTE FART.
Sun, 12 Sep 2021 01:00:00 GMT
922 - Yooka-Laylee and the Kracklestone: A Literary Analysis
In honor of the Grand Tome Edition available now at Limited Run Games (https://www.limitedrungames.com/products/yooka-laylee-and-the-kracklestone-graphic-novel), the Kongversation tackles the official Yooka-Laylee graphic novel, Yooka-Laylee and the Kracklestone! How did the work change the way Hyle and Cameron view Yooka-Laylee, and why is it worth the time of any longtime fan of the DKU?
Sun, 05 Sep 2021 01:00:00 GMT
921 - Interview: Kev Bayliss and David Wise
The Kongversation is joined by two fathers of the Donkey Kong Universe: the designer of the modern Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong, Kev Bayliss, and legendary composer David Wise. They're on the podcast to chat about their careers (including Donkey Kong Country, Diddy Kong Racing, and Star Fox Adventures) and also their new venture: DK Creations Ltd. and the multi-media comic experience SALAMANDOS!
Sun, 22 Aug 2021 01:00:00 GMT
920 - Dr. Mario World, Nintendo, and Game Preservation
With the news that Nintendo is shutting down Dr. Mario World, rendering it inaccessible to play, the Kongversation takes a look at the history of Nintendo games that are lost to time, the Donkey Kong Universe's close calls over the years, and Nintendo's practices with game preservation compared to Xbox and others.
Tue, 17 Aug 2021 01:00:00 GMT
919 - Mario and Sonic at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 First Impressions
It's a game that came out in November of 2019 set in the summer of 2020 that didn't actually happen until August of 2021. In this episode, Hyle and David discuss the stupid continuity ramifications of Donkey Kong being an Olympic athlete in every sport!
Sun, 08 Aug 2021 01:00:00 GMT
918 - Character Witness: Banjo Bear
Who's the most stand-up, solid dude in the Donkey Kong Universe? Not that piece of trash Conker! The Kongversation makes the case for Banjo, a bluegrass-loving hillbilly with cosmopolitan tastes, an enormous heart, and only light manslaughter charges.
Sun, 01 Aug 2021 01:00:00 GMT
Mini 015 - Pirates of the Caribbean 1 - 5: A Film Critique
Hyle watched all five "Pirates of the Caribbean" films for the first time in order to have proper context for Sea of Thieves: A Pirate's Life. He has opinions, so Jeff will be the Ebert to his Siskel in the Kongversation's first-ever Film Critique!
Thu, 22 Jul 2021 01:00:00 GMT
917 - Sea of Thieves: Season Two
Hyle and Jeff discuss everything Season Two brought to Sea of Thieves and some things it didn't, including disguising yourself as a barrel, Forts of Fortune, and the sweet creamy taste of squirrel milk. Press play to find out which is which!
Fri, 16 Jul 2021 01:00:00 GMT
916 - 40 Years of Donkey Kong
The Donkey Kong franchise has turned 40! To celebrate, DK Vine's LIVE Kongversation (originally broadcast on https://twitch.tv/dkvine) honors the last four decades, and every era, of Donkey Kong. To help with the festivities, several notable names behind DK's storied legacy even drop in with their warmest regards!
Sat, 10 Jul 2021 01:00:00 GMT
915 - Mario Golf: Super Rush First Impressions
Hyle's been suffering from deliberating insomnia for nearing two weeks, so he spends the first episode back from E3 railing against Space Jam, for some reason. He also discusses Mario Golf: Super Rush, which has been getting mixed reviews across mainstream gaming sites. What does DK Vine think, and how much of it comes down to the glistening perfection of Donkey Kong soaking wet in the rain?
Fri, 2 Jul 2021 01:00:00 GMT
914 - E3 2021 Wrap Up
E3 2021 is over. All of the games have been revealed. All that's left is a summer of perpetual longing. To help find closure, an exhausted Hyle is joined by Cameron and Gibbon to bring things full circle on a LIVE Kongversation (broadcast on https://twitch.tv/dkvine) on the Friday after E3!
Fri, 18 Jun 2021 01:00:00 GMT
913 - E3 2021 Nintendo
Hyle is drunk. Jeff is drunk. Mitchell is sober, although he's drunk on power. Nintendo's E3 was a disappointment for Donkey Kong fans, but DK Vine tries to make the best of it on a LIVE Kongversation (broadcast on https://twitch.tv/dkvine) covering the Nintendo Direct!
Tue, 15 Jun 2021 01:00:00 GMT
912 - E3 2021 Xbox
Captain Jack Sparrow has joined the DKU. The bizarre (and robust) crossover between Sea of Thieves and Pirates of the Caribbean takes over E3 Sunday and the LIVE Kongversation (broadcast on https://twitch.tv/dkvine) for the Xbox and Bethesda Showcase!
Sun, 13 Jun 2021 01:00:00 GMT
911 - E3 2021 Preview
E3 is here! E3 is at home! On our LIVE E3 preview (broadcast on E3 Friday on https://twitch.tv/dkvine), Hyle and a panel of DK Viners discuss what the all-digital return of the biggest gaming event of the year might yield for the Donkey Kong Universe. The new Donkey Kong game? A second or THIRD Donkey Kong game? Everwild? Banjo-Kazooie? BACONHEADZ? Nothing is too ludicrous to speculate on!
Fri, 11 Jun 2021 01:00:00 GMT
910 - Reappraising Mario Kart Tour
The Kongversation has been historically negative about Mario Kart Tour. But recently, Hyle and Jeff got upgraded phones and have been able to give the game a fairer shot, discovering the hidden joys not immediately apparent to anyone afraid their phone is going to catch on fire halfway through a race. Also, Hyle spent $39.99 on Dixie Kong and feels the need to defend his choice.
Thu, 10 Jun 2021 01:00:00 GMT
909 - Crash Team Racing, DK, and the Celebration of Characters
Crash Team Racing Nitro-Fueled, as well as other recent entries in the Crash Bandicoot series, embraced the full history of the franchise's extensive characters and lore. Donkey Kong, on the other hand, has been whittled down to eight core characters. Come share the plight of the DK fan with Hyle and Jeff!
Fri, 04 Jun 2021 01:00:00 GMT
908 - Remembering E3 2001
E3 fever is in the air, but we just passed the 20th anniversary of an E3 that still hasn't been cured for Donkey Kong Universe fans. Hyle and Cameron reminiscence about the magical pandemic of DKU games at E3 2001!
Fri, 28 May 2021 01:00:00 GMT
907 - Heard Any Good Rumors Lately?
Well, the rumors are out now. Is Nintendo EPD working on a Donkey Kong game? Hyle finally discusses everything he knows (mostly) with Josh "The Geek Critique" Wallen before they speculate about what this potential game might entail!
Tue, 18 May 2021 01:00:00 GMT
906 - Stop 'N' Swop: A Revelation
Rare Gamer's Steve returns to the Kongversation to discuss even more about Stop 'N' Swop! Two days after our last episode on the subject, Rare employee and Stop 'N' Swop architect Paul Machacek revealed even more secrets about the fabled connectivity between Rare's N64 games, including a secret ending to Donkey Kong 64 and exactly how and when Nintendo killed the plan!
Thu, 13 May 2021 01:00:00 GMT
Mini 014 - Hair Where Before There Was No Hair
Have you heard about Diddy Kong's old render made new by becoming a bit hairier? You've probably heard about it since it's been all over the news sites and social media the past week. But is there any burning fur coming from all of this smoke? DK Vine weighs in on what this could mean!
Sun, 25 Apr 2021 01:00:00 GMT
905 - Sea of Thieves: Season One
Hyle and Jeff discuss Sea of Thieves' new season structure and why the recent changes made to the game make it more accessible than ever... and why old-school Rare fans who still haven't gotten on board may want to finally grab hold of that ship ladder!
Thu, 22 Apr 2021 01:00:00 GMT
904 - Spotlight: Conker's Bad Fur Day (part 3)
Our Conker's Bad Fur Day retrospective ends in bloodshed and regret, as these things often do, as we discuss the night portions and multiplayer of the game! Conker faces the darkness in Spooky, It's War, and Heist, then we face our callers for nearly an hour!
Thu, 15 Apr 2021 01:00:00 GMT
903 - Spotlight: Conker's Bad Fur Day (part 2)
How about some chat you little twat? On the second part of our Conker's Bad Fur Day Spotlight series, we discuss the opening Chapters of the game, all taking place during the chaste wholesomeness of the daytime. This episode is dedicated to the memory of Bloopie the dinosaur.
Sun, 04 Apr 2021 01:00:00 GMT
902 - Spotlight: Conker's Bad Fur Day (part 1)
One year shy of the legal drinking age in the Cock and Plucker, Conker's Bad Fur Day has turned 20! On the first installment of our patented Spotlight series, the Kongversation follows the long, winding road from the cute and cuddly 'nice' Conker's Quest to the poo-swimming, urine-guzzling 'nasty' of Conker's Bad Fur Day!
Fri, 19 Mar 2021 01:00:00 GMT
901 - The Dinosaur Planet ROM
The Kongversation begins a new season of episodes by discussing the leaked Dinosaur Planet Nintendo 64 ROM! Before it moved to the GameCube, before it became Star Fox Adventures... but not before Fox McCloud joined the game!
Tue, 09 Mar 2021 01:00:00 GMT
831 - New Year's Forecast 2021
The Kongversation looks ahead at what 2021 will bring for the Donkey Kong Universe, including DK's 40th anniversary, what Rare and Playtonic are up to, and the usual bit of Smash chat!
Wed, 27 Jan 2021 01:00:00 GMT
830 - Stop 'N' Swop: A History
Featuring Steve from off of Rare Gamer, it's the audio history of Stop 'N' Swop! The notorious abandoned feature would have linked Banjo-Kazooie with not only Banjo-Tooie, but Donkey Kong 64 and other Rare games to bring the Ice Key and ? Eggs across Rare's shared universe! We discuss what we know, what went wrong, and the immeasurable legacy it's left across both Rare and Playtonic!
Wed, 20 Jan 2021 01:00:00 GMT
829 - Spotlight: Banjo-Tooie (part 3)
In the final part of our Banjo-Tooie retrospective, we discuss the last five worlds of the game: Terrydactyland, Grunty Industries, Hailfire Peaks, and Cloud Cuckooland, as well as the finale in Cauldron Keep!
Sun, 17 Jan 2021 01:00:00 GMT
828 - Spotlight: Banjo-Tooie (part 2)
In the second part of our Banjo-Tooie retrospective, we discuss Spiral Mountain and the Isle O'Hags, followed by the first four worlds of the game: Mayahem Temple, Glitter Gulch Mine, Witchyworld, and Jolly Roger's Lagoon!
Wed, 23 Dec 2020 01:00:00 GMT
827 - Spotlight: Banjo-Tooie (part 1)
The Kongversation finally tackles the mammoth, sprawling sequel to Banjo-Kazooie in the first part of our mammoth, sprawling retrospective in honor of its 20th anniversary! To kick things off, Hyle and Cameron discuss the plot and characters, as well as the hype surrounding the game before its release!
Thu, 10 Dec 2020 01:00:00 GMT
826 - Mighty Fight Federation First Impressions
Yooka and Laylee have been added as playable characters to the 3D arena fighter Mighty Fight Federation! We give our first in-depth thoughts on the game, plus we discuss what it adds to Playtonic lore!
Tue, 24 Nov 2020 01:00:00 GMT
825 - The Playtonic Invasion
Playtonic has recently Infinity Inked deals for cameo appearances of their characters in several indie titles, bringing a diverse lineup of games into the DKU. On this episode, we discuss all of the ones announced thus far!
Sat, 14 Nov 2020 01:00:00 GMT
824 - Fearbringers Part 2: The New Blood
Recorded live during DK Vine's "Not Halloween" Scream-A-Ganza, Hyle and Jeff take Season 3's Fearbringers episode up to the lab and revive it with a bolt of lightning to discuss the last five years of fright in the Donkey Kong Universe!
Sat, 31 Oct 2020 01:00:00 GMT
823 - Yet Another Sea of Thieves Catch-Up
Before the October update, Hyle and Jeff discuss the summer that was in Sea of Thieves! Captain Flameheart's growing incursion on the waters, plus ancient treasure vaults and pissing dogs!
Tue, 27 Oct 2020 01:00:00 GMT
822 - A Eulogy for Nintendo Handhelds
Nintendo has announced that they're ceasing production on the 3DS, signaling the end of 31 years of full-fledged secondary handhelds that sat parallel to the main consoles. The Kongversation takes a nostalgic look back at them all, with a specific focus on the Donkey Kong Universe landmarks along the way.
Mon, 12 Oct 2020 01:00:00 GMT
821 - Talk Like a Pirate Day 2020
Broadcast live on www.twitch.tv/dkvine, our annual Talk Like a Pirate Day episode sees the Kongversation ranking the top 10 pirates across the entire Donkey Kong Universe!
Sat, 19 Sep 2020 01:00:00 GMT
Mini 013 - Donkey Kong Jr. in Mario Kart Tour?
What the arrival of a retro-tinged Donkey Kong Jr. in Mario Kart Tour means for the past, present, and future of Donkey Kong continuity!
Thu, 17 Sep 2020 01:00:00 GMT
820 - The Banjo-Kazooie Iceberg (?)
What the hell is the Banjo-Kazooie iceberg? It's this, apparently: https://dkvine.com/kongversation/bk_iceberg.png HOW DEEP DOES IT GO? Hyle and Mitchell discuss every item on it, elaborating on and debunking the forbidden knowledge of the Banjo-Kazooie series!
Thu, 10 Sep 2020 01:00:00 GMT
819 - Battletoads First Impressions
Hyle's joined by Dustin Jackson to discuss our (spoiler-filled and filled diaper) thoughts on the new Battletoad's Act One! Plus, the all-important question for DK Vine: is the game part of the DKU?
Tue, 25 Aug 2020 01:00:00 GMT
818 - The Super Donkey Leak
In the midst of all of the leakin' and L-is-Realin' over at Nintendo, a surprise early version of Yoshi's Island labeled "Super Donkey" has flown (literally) under the radar. The Kongversation discusses why this might be a long-forgotten attempt at reviving Donkey Kong months before Nintendo's fateful meeting with Rare!
Sun, 09 Aug 2020 01:00:00 GMT
Mini 012 - Everwild Eternals Trailer
Hyle and Jeff discuss the new trailer for Rare's upcoming Everwild game!
Sun, 02 Aug 2020 01:00:00 GMT
817 - Interview: Chris Allcock of Rare Ltd. Fame
A longtime staffer at Rare, Chris Allcock left the studio in 2017 to pursue a freelance writing career... which meant writing for Rare. Helping shape the lore of numerous games, he's recently written the official Sea of Thieves novel "Athena's Fortune." He's now on our podcast. We will ask him questions. He will answer.
Sat, 25 Jul 2020 01:00:00 GMT
816 - Why Donkey Kong Land Still Matters
25 years after its release, Donkey Kong Land's impact on the DKU is as strong as ever. Come on a journey with Hyle and Jeff as they discuss how Donkey Kong Land is covertly one of the most impactful games in the canon!
Fri, 17 Jul 2020 01:00:00 GMT
815 - Another Sea of Thieves Catch-Up
It's another Sea of Thieves catch-up! Recorded at the onset of the most recent update, Hyle and Jeff discuss everything added to the game from February through May, including the Heart of Fire Tall Tale and the progression of the Flameheart arc. Also, an update on Jeff's grandpa.
Fri, 10 Jul 2020 01:00:00 GMT
Mini 011 - Diddy Kong in Mario Kart 64?
Has Diddy Kong really been the bus driver on Toad's Turnpike in Mario Kart 64 this whole time? A possible overlooked Easter egg is debated by Hyle and Malik "The Cartoon Gamer" McLeod!
Sun, 21 Jun 2020 01:00:00 GMT
814 - "Not E3" 2020: The State of E3
Streamed live during Day 3 of DK Vine's "Not E3" Stream-A-Ganza, it's an E3 episode without the E3! What is the state of the hallowed annual gaming event now that we've had our first year without it since 1994? Featuring Jeff, Jeff's candlelight, Jeff's buzzing generator, Jeff's grandfather, Jeff's grandfather's oxygen machine, and the demon that claimed them all.
Sun, 14 Jun 2020 01:00:00 GMT
813 - "Not E3" 2020: The State of Xbox
Streamed live during Day 2 of DK Vine's "Not E3" Stream-A-Ganza, it's an E3 Xbox episode without the E3! What is the state of the Xbox One and Xbox Series X, and, with it, Rare, Sea of Thieves, and... Banjo-Kazooie?
Sun, 14 Jun 2020 01:00:00 GMT
812 - "Not E3" 2020: The State of Nintendo
Streamed live during Day 1 of DK Vine's "Not E3" Stream-A-Ganza, it's an E3 Nintendo episode without the E3! What is the state of the Switch, and, with it, Donkey Kong, Star Fox, and... Banjo-Kazooie?
Sun, 14 Jun 2020 01:00:00 GMT
811 - Sea of Thieves: Athena's Fortune: A Literary Analysis
We discuss the Sea of Thieves novel "Athena's Fortune" by Chris Allcock! An official tie-in that's canon with the game, it explores the history of the Pirate Lord, the discovery of the Sea of Thieves, and the foundation of piracy across the shared Rare universe.
Sat, 06 Jun 2020 01:00:00 GMT
810 - Funky Dixie Land
Reactions to Funky and Dixie Kong being added to Mario Kart Tour. How should one react when a moment that should thrill you happens in a game you don't much care for?
Fri, 29 May 2020 01:00:00 GMT
809 - The Forgotten Diddy Kong Racing
Diddy Kong Racing is forgotten. Well, not by those of us who were there in 1997, or those who had N64s after their heyday, or those who are students of history. But to the general gaming populace and younger Nintendo fans? It's barely a footnote. And, as a result, the actual history of the Donkey Kong Universe is blurred. Hyle and Jeff discuss how we got here, the complicated legal rights of Diddy Kong Racing, and what steps could be taken by both Nintendo and Microsoft to bring it back!
Thu, 14 May 2020 01:00:00 GMT
808 - Spotlight: Mario Golf (Game Boy Color)
Finally! It's the Spotlight episode for Mario Golf (Game Boy Color), the RPG counterpart to the Nintendo 64 classic. Kid! Joe! Sherry! Azalea! And, for a few brief seconds, Donkey Kong! It's one of DK Vine's favorite Cameo Games... and one of our favorite games, period. Well, until Kiddy's Kitties knocks it off the list.
Thu, 07 May 2020 01:00:00 GMT
807 - Generations
When the culture around a series changes, either through a new creative direction or evolving popular tastes, an older generation of fans is usually left feeling cold. It eventually happens to every fandom, and Donkey Kong is no exception. Neither is Sonic the Hedgehog, and that's why Hyle is joined by Josh "The Geek Critique" Wallen to discuss the war between generations (and why it's inevitably silly).
Fri, 17 Apr 2020 01:00:00 GMT
806 - Top 10 Happiest Moments in DKU Fandom
Happy thoughts! To keep our minds off of distressing times, Hyle and Jeff count down the top 10 happiest moments in Donkey Kong Universe fandom. Game reveals, surprising moments, and E3s and Nintendo Directs that put us on the moon. So that we may better punch it, naturally!
Sun, 05 Apr 2020 01:00:00 GMT
805 - The Future of Donkey Kong
The here and now is a confusing, scary, uncertain place to be. So let's live in the future! In this episode, Hyle and Jeff examine the trajectory the Donkey Kong franchise seems to be on and attempt to figure out what this means for the next game... or even the next several games!
Sat, 21 Mar 2020 01:00:00 GMT
804 - Character Witness: Mr. Patch
After we recorded a roughly six-hour commentary on Playtonic's Yooka-Laylee commentaries last season, we posed a challenge to our audience. Who among you would be the first to record a roughly six-hour commentary on our commentaries on Playtonic's commentaries? Just Andre was the one who answered the call, and so we must record the Kongversation topic of his choosing: the life story of Banjo-Tooie boss Mr. Patch.
Thu, 12 Mar 2020 01:00:00 GMT
803 - Yooka-Laylee and the Impossible Lair: To Paywall 5
We continue our discussion of Yooka-Laylee and the Impossible Lair! Spoilers on everything up to the fifth Trowzer Paywall (around Chapter 14). Please note that Hyle and Cameron are both bees in the game.
Fri, 06 Mar 2020 01:00:00 GMT
802 - Sea of Thieves Catch-Up
What's been going on in Sea of Thieves since it was last discussed on the show? Too much! The "omni-prequel" to nearly every Rare franchise ever continues to expand and evolve in both gameplay and lore, even becoming a full-fledged follow-up to a classic Ultimate: Play the Game franchise. But Hyle and Jeff are cranky old men and first want to discuss how annoying Superbowl commercials are, apparently.
Wed, 26 Feb 2020 01:00:00 GMT
801 - DK Vine at MAGFest 2020
A new season of the Kongversation kicks off with a recounting of our experiences hosting DK Vine's first-ever convention panel at MAGFest in January! What was it like unleashing the Donkey Kong Universe on unsuspecting attendees?
Tue, 18 Feb 2020 01:00:00 GMT
735 - New Year's Forecast 2020
The Kongversation wraps up 2019 with the announcement of another silly season-wide contest, then looks back at the amazing year for the Donkey Kong Universe. Then, we get-a-predicting for what we'll see from Playtonic, Rare, and Donkey Kong in 2020!
Tue, 31 Dec 2019 01:00:00 GMT
734 - Interview: Grant Kirkhope
The voice of Donkey Kong. The composer of more games than we can name. Grant Kirkhope finally comes to the Kongversation to discuss how it felt becoming the first western composer in Super Smash Bros., farts, bathroom etiquette with Shigeru Miyamoto, whether or not he'd write for another Banjo-Kazooie, and why his rendition of Donkey Kong sounds like an ape having an orgasm.
Wed, 11 Dec 2019 01:00:00 GMT
733 - Why Donkey Kong 64 Still Matters
20 years on, The Kongversation looks at the legacy of Donkey Kong 64 and how an arguably flawed Donkey Kong game (and an even more flawed 3D platformer) still resonates with people. Yes, this one is expanded length.
Thu, 28 Nov 2019 01:00:00 GMT
732 - Rare at X019
Rare finally showed off their mysterious new game at X019: Everwild! Hyle and Jeff give their thoughts on the trailer and what their hopes for the game are, as well as discussing the other Rare news (and scorpions) coming out of the show!
Tue, 19 Nov 2019 01:00:00 GMT
731 - Interview: Chris Sutherland II
Playtonic's Chris Sutherland returns to the Kongversation! Last time, it was before the Yooka-Laylee Kickstarter campaign had even been announced. This time, with it and Yooka-Laylee and the Impossible Lair both released, we discuss his experiences developing them, what's on the horizon for Playtonic, and then get him to do more of the silly voices he's so well-known for.
Sun, 17 Nov 2019 01:00:00 GMT
730 - Dr. Mario World First Impressions
Take a pill each time you hear befuddlement about the medical credentials of Mario and Donkey Kong characters during this one. I think you'll have unpleasant stomach bleeding by the end.
Tue, 12 Nov 2019 01:00:00 GMT
729 - Destination DKU: Gloomy Gulch
It's a scary stroll through everyone's favorite elevated haunted forest for crocodile people: Gloomy Gulch! In the very first Destination DKU episode, Hyle is joined by Playtonic's Daley "Kong" Johnson to discuss the beloved Donkey Kong Country 2 world!
Thu, 31 Oct 2019 01:00:00 GMT
728 - Have You Forgotten?: The Nintendo Power Supplies Catalog (part 3)
Because we promised it, here it is: another deep-dive into the Nintendo Power catalogs of the 1990s. Come be amazed with us at the weird merchandise and the even weirder descriptions. You can even listen to this while you're pounding it out in the gym!
Sat, 26 Oct 2019 01:00:00 GMT
727 - Yooka-Laylee and the Impossible Lair: To Paywall 3
We begin our intensive and thorough discussion of Yooka-Laylee and the Impossible Lair! Spoilers on everything up to the third Trowzer Paywall (around Chapter 8). Please note that Hyle and Jeff are both bees in the game.
Tue, 22 Oct 2019 01:00:00 GMT
726 - Mario Kart Tour First Impressions
Take a shot each time you hear an exasperated sigh during this one. I think you'll be pleasantly alcohol poisoned by the end.
Tue, 15 Oct 2019 01:00:00 GMT
Mini 010 - Yooka-Laylee and the Impossible Lair First Impressions
We've played Yooka-Laylee and the Impossible Lair early! Here are our first, spoiler-free thoughts on the new 2D platformer from Playtonic.
Thu, 03 Oct 2019 01:00:00 GMT
725 - Interview: Gavin Price of Playtonic
Gavin Price, Managing Director and Creative Lead of Playtonic Games, joins us on the Kongversation! With a little over a week before the release of the studio's Yooka-Laylee and the Impossible Lair (https://www.playtonicgames.com/yooka-laylee-and-the-impossible-lair-pre-orders-live/), Gavin opens up about the inspirations behind their second game, lessons learned from the original Yooka-Laylee, and his plans to evolve the lore of the universe. He also vends us some tasty clues about the future of Playtonic!
Fri, 27 Sep 2019 01:00:00 GMT
724 - Talk Like a Pirate Day 2019
On the seventh annual Talk Like a Pirate Day episode, Hyle and Jeff abstain from talking like pirates (for the most part). They do, however, finally make a ruling on Sea of Thieves' place in the tapestry of the shared universe of Rare and Donkey Kong. PK! Pepito Kong! PK! Pepito Kong is here!
Thu, 19 Sep 2019 01:00:00 GMT
723 - Super Smash Bros. Ultimate: Banjo-Kazooie First Impressions
Banjo-Kazooie are now in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate! Mitchell Wolfe, who has been with the Kongversation's Ultimate journey from the start, returns to the show to discuss this seismic moment in the Donkey Kong Universe.
Wed, 18 Sep 2019 01:00:00 GMT
722 - Spotlight: Mario Golf
Camelot's first Mario Golf game, Mario Golf, is 20 years old! Not to be confused with Camelot's second Mario Golf game, Mario Golf, which turns 20 next month.
Sun, 15 Sep 2019 01:00:00 GMT
721 - 20 Years of DK Vine
20 years of fan culture. 20 years of like-minded weirdos. 20 years of DK Vine. Hyle, Matt, and numerous figures from the community look back on the past two decades.
Thu, 22 Aug 2019 01:00:00 GMT
720 - Donkey Kong Island at Universal Orlando
Hyle and Jeff talk more about the upcoming Donkey Kong Island attraction at Universal Orlando's Epic Universe. Mine Cart Madness! Funky's Fly 'n' Buy! Ellie the elephant! All that, plus the bones of Benedict Cumberbatch!
Fri, 09 Aug 2019 01:00:00 GMT
719 - Sea of Thieves: Anniversary Update First Impressions
It's another episode about a big Sea of Thieves update, but this one is different. Sea of Thieves' Anniversary Update is more akin to Sea of Thieves II (The Legend of Curly's Shores of Gold), dramatically enriching the game and making it the fully fleshed-out experience it was always destined to be. Hyle and Jeff discuss all the big changes, but mostly use the time to chat about the brilliant Tall Tales.
Sun, 21 Jul 2019 01:00:00 GMT
718 - Banjo-Kazooie are Raring to Go!
So here it is. A mind-blistering four-hour podcast about Banjo, Kazooie and their inclusion in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. I hope this satisfies you as much as it broke me.
Sat, 06 Jul 2019 01:00:00 GMT
717 - E3 2019 Wrap Up
E3 is over, but what happened on the show floor? Hyle and Jeff talk about the games they played and the encounters they made along the way. Oh yes. We did. WE BROUGHT BACK THE SPIDERS.
Wed, 26 Jun 2019 01:00:00 GMT
716 - E3 2019 Nintendo
ATTENTION! If you want to see us on video, watch this episode on YouTube to see Mitchell and Cameron's teeming frustration with Hyle's sleep deprived musings. Recorded over two nights and one morning, from Tuesday June 11th to Thursday June 13th, this episode captures the unfolding experience of Nintendo's E3 2019 Direct and the seismic reveal of Banjo-Kazooie in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate.
Sun, 16 Jun 2019 01:00:00 GMT
715 - E3 2019 Playtonic
ATTENTION! If you want to see us on video, watch this episode on YouTube to see Jeff dress like a trash monster. This past Friday, Playtonic finally unveiled their second game: Yooka-Laylee and the Impossible Lair. A Donkey Kong Country-inspired 2D platformer with a 3D, top-down overworld, it scratches so many itches that our bodies were writhing about with. Bee-lieve it.
Tue, 11 Jun 2019 01:00:00 GMT
714 - E3 2019 Microsoft
ATTENTION! If you want to see us on video, watch this episode on YouTube to see Hyle's hair stick up on end for hours! Now then: the 2019 Xbox Briefing. What happened? Where was Rare? What the hell, Keanu Reeves? Go to hell, camera jib obscuring our view! Yes, the DK Vine Love Shack team was live in the audience, and we've got anecdotes! Oh, do we ever.
Mon, 10 Jun 2019 01:00:00 GMT
713 - E3 2019 Preview
Hyle and Mitchell preview E3 2019 and everything we think we'll plausibly see (and some things we just hope to see) from Playtonic, Rare, Donkey Kong... and a certain bear and bird in a certain fighting game. Yep. Barter Bear and Parry the Parallel Bird in Clayfighter.
Thu, 06 Jun 2019 01:00:00 GMT
712 - The Unlikely Legend of Rusty Pup
Spinning out of the Conker's Other Bad Day discussion last episode, Hyle is joined once again by I.M. Gibbon to discuss the newest project from Chris Seavor: The Unlikely Legend of Rusty Pup. It's a bit of a breather before E3 2019 madness begins!
Wed, 05 Jun 2019 01:00:00 GMT
711 - The Other Death of Conker the Squirrel
Episode number aside, the only similarity this one has with the famed convenience store chain is the amount of rodent hair. We're talking extensively about the now-revealed plot for Chris Seavor's long-lost planned sequel to Conker's Bad Fur Day, Conker's OTHER Bad Day. Featuring shocking resurrections! Surprising deaths! Salacious double-crossing! And, as always, a sloppy supply of shit.
Tue, 28 May 2019 01:00:00 GMT
710 - This Podcast Isn't Fresh Enough For Today
On this episode, Hyle reflects on the mistakes of his and DK Vine's past. This leads to a discussion on how the infamous quote supposedly given by Donkey Kong Jungle Beat's Yoshiaki Koizumi about the Donkey Kong Country characters not being "fresh enough for today" was actually mistranslated. Like most of the game, apparently! Featuring I.M. Gibbon of https://www.dkgirder.com
Mon, 20 May 2019 01:00:00 GMT
709 - The Yooka-Laylee Developer Commentaries (part 2)
It continues! Hyle and Mitchell won't be Flappy Flighting over any details, as we complete the Yooka-Laylee Developer Commentary discussion with Moodymaze Marsh, Capital Cashino, Galleon Galaxy, and the climatic battle with Capital B. Those who manage to endure the duration will also be dealt a challenge that you can't refuse!
Mon, 13 May 2019 01:00:00 GMT
708 - The Yooka-Laylee Developer Commentaries (part 1)
Playtonic recently completed their Developer Commentary series, where they discussed the development process and what went into the creation of each world. Since we also discuss things here on the Kongversation, we decided to discuss them discussing the development process and what went into the creation of each world. We also use the opportunity to reflect on where we are with Yooka-Laylee two years after its release, and Mitchell uses the opportunity to fix the air conditioning in his attic.
Mon, 06 May 2019 01:00:00 GMT
707 - Every Day is Earth Day
Happy Earth Day! What? You're listening to this episode in October? That doesn't matter! EVERY DAY IS EARTH DAY! And on this episode of the Kongversation, Hyle and Shane discuss the ecological messages of the Donkey Kong Universe and what we can learn from those games to better improve the health of our own island. Uh, which is Earth. Because, like, it floats in space and stuff.
Mon, 22 Apr 2019 01:00:00 GMT
706 - DKU SackDown!
The Smackdown has been layeth, but now our Call Sack is overfloweth! It's time for put a towel on the floor and sop up the spillage. Hyle and David answer numerous listener calls about a wide range of topics across the Donkey Kong Universe, Rare, and Playtonic spectrum!
Mon, 08 Apr 2019 01:00:00 GMT
705 - Sea of Thieves: Shrouded Spoils First Impressions + Anniversary Update
On this episode, Hyle and Jeff reflect on one year of Sea of Thieves, focusing specifically on the major updates recently made to the game: Shrouded Spoils from last November and the Anniversary Update dropping next month. That's all well and good, but the question most Kongversation listeners probably have is, "How is it that Sea of Thieves isn't part of the Donkey Kong Universe yet?" Then hit play and start listening: we might have found a way to rock that boat.
Fri, 29 Mar 2019 01:00:00 GMT
704 - Follow-Up Appointment: Donkey Kong VB
On this episode, someone DIES. Also dying? Our long-held understanding of what the Donkey Kong game in development for the Virtual Boy was going to be! In a follow-up appointment from episode 335, Hyle and Cameron pull out the red-and-black visor and blast off to Space World for a new round of information on the ever-so-brief Virtual Boy project at Rare. What was it if it wasn't a port of Donkey Kong Country 2?
Thu, 21 Mar 2019 01:00:00 GMT
703 - DKU Unsolved Mysteries
On this episode, the true name of the screaming madman at the beginning of every Kongversation is revealed! But that got us thinking about mysteries still left unsolved, namely the ones of the Donkey Kong Universe. From dangling cliffhangers to in-game oddities, Hyle and Jeff try to get to (and in) the bottom of some of their favorites!
Thu, 28 Feb 2019 01:00:00 GMT
702 - Talkin' It Up: The Rs (Retro and Rare)
There's suddenly loads of news to discuss when it comes to our favorite Rs: Retro Studios and Rare Ltd! Retro is officially making Metroid Prime 4. What happened there? Hyle brings on the closest thing to a "resident Metroid expert" he knows, Josh Wallen from off of The Geek Critique, to discuss the tortured history of both Metroid Prime 4 and Retro's last five years. Then, Phil Spencer is dropping serious hints (i.e. blatantly stating) that Rare is developing a new game alongside continued Sea of Thieves updates. What could it be? Could it be related to Xbox Live coming to Nintendo Switch? No.
Wed, 13 Feb 2019 01:00:00 GMT
701 - Spotlight: Mario Party
The original Mario Party is now 20 years old! On the first episode of 2019, Hyle and Malik party like it's 1999 all over again. That means worry about Y2K, debate whether Stone Cold Steve Austin or Goldberg is the superior wrestler, and put bandages on our massive hand blisters.
Fri, 01 Feb 2019 01:00:00 GMT
638 - New Year's Forecast 2019
It's a twisting bender of a season ender as Hyle goes on a tour of DK Vine staffers to discuss the monumental year that was, as well as what the coming year could be for Donkey Kong, Rare, and Playtonic.
Mon, 31 Dec 2018 01:00:00 GMT
637 - Super Smash Bros. Ultimate First Impressions (part 2)
On the second part, Hyle and Mitchell have a (mostly spoiler-free) discussion of Super Smash Bros. Ultimate's World of Light, while trying to look into the crystal ball (or is that the Krystal Assist Trophy?) at the still-to-be-revealed DLC fighters. What did the data miners find that suggests a Donkey Kong Universe connection?
Sat, 29 Dec 2018 01:00:00 GMT
636 - Super Smash Bros. Ultimate First Impressions (part 1)
It's time. On this first of two episodes, we discuss nearly everything related to Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. K. Rool! Classic Mode! Spirits! The gameplay! The options! Has Super Smash Bros. Ultimate cured DK Vine's Smashphobia? On the next episode: World of Light!
Sun, 23 Dec 2018 01:00:00 GMT
635 - Sea of Thieves Vol. 1: A Literary Analysis
While we formulate our opinions on Super Smash Bros. Ultimate for our gigantic First Impressions episodes, take a breather with this episode about the Sea of Thieves comic book series. Canon with the universe of the games, we discuss the characters and plot before setting our sights on what other Donkey Kong Universe properties would make for compelling comics.
Thu, 13 Dec 2018 01:00:00 GMT
634 - We Need To Talk About Banjo-Threeie
Banjo-Threeie. The widely-bandied about name for the next Banjo-Kazooie game. Fans are demanding it. Everyone has their own ideas about how to do it. So what approach do you take? The Kongversation has some ideas. Maybe after this episode, you will too!
Tue, 04 Dec 2018 01:00:00 GMT
633 - Sea of Thieves: Forsaken Shores First Impressions
Now that Sea of Thieves' third major content update has ceased its violent eruptions, Hyle and Jeff discuss everything it added to the game. Also, a look ahead at Shrouded Spoils and The Arena!
Sun, 18 Nov 2018 01:00:00 GMT
632 - Grinched
For a wondrous week, everything made sense. Banjo-Kazooie were in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate! As was Geno, Shadow the Hedgehog, and other fan favorite characters. Then it all came crashing down (and it hurt inside) with an actual Smash Direct. On this episode, Hyle and Mitchell discuss the infamous "Grinch leak", the delusion they were both under, and their thoughts on the final Direct before the game's launch. Also: who will be among the final five DLC fighters?
Fri, 09 Nov 2018 01:00:00 GMT
631 - The Puppet Master
Puppet maker Grunt has been a part of the Donkey Kong and Rare fan community for years. He's always had a healthy appreciation for the baddies of the Donkey Kong Universe, so, for Halloween, Hyle's invited him on the show to discuss his work, his love for all things villainous, and the still-burgeoning excitement for K. Rool's return. Check out his YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/TransfatylvaniaFilms
Wed, 31 Oct 2018 01:00:00 GMT
630 - Super Mario Party First Impressions
In the Kongversation's entire history, we've never done an episode about Mario Party. Now that, arguably, the biggest Mario Party game since the original is out, and features a playable Donkey and Diddy, we felt it was time to change that. For the first half, it's a retrospective on why a series we once loved drove us to apathy and then disgust. For the second half, we examine whether Super Mario Party has turned us, and the series, around.
Mon, 29 Oct 2018 01:00:00 GMT
629 - Interview: D.M. Cumbo of Yooka-Laylee and the Kracklestone
Joining the Kongversation for a special episode is D.M. Cumbo, creator of "Yooka-Laylee and the Kracklestone", the crowd-funded, Playtonic-authorized graphic novel continuation of the game. Hyle and Cameron run through all manner of topics in this wide-ranging interview; how the project originated, the creative process, and the evolving nature of video game expanded universes. After listening, check out the Kickstarter campaign at https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/dreamprismpress/yooka-laylee-and-the-kracklestone
Sat, 20 Oct 2018 01:00:00 GMT
628 - Brawlout First Impressions
You might have heard about Brawlout, that indie Smash Bros.-inspired game by Angry Mob Games. You might not have heard that Yooka-Laylee have been added to the game as fighters. Seeing as how Brawlout is now Donkey Kong Universe, on this episode Hyle and Shane discuss all of the ramifications: where it fits within the lore, what it means for Yooka and Laylee's world, and how the game did Swanky Kong dirty.
Sun, 07 Oct 2018 01:00:00 GMT
627 - Character Witness: Bottles
Life! Death! Resurrection! Marital turmoil! Artifact smuggling! Top gun cockpit piloting! Which video game character exemplifies all this and more? Why, it's obviously the short-sighted mole from off of Banjo-Kazooie. Recorded during Hurricane Florence, the added element of danger makes this episode EXTRA SEXY. Just how old Worm Breath likes it!
Wed, 26 Sep 2018 01:00:00 GMT
626 - Spotlight: Banjo-Kazooie: Grunty's Revenge
Banjo-Kazooie: Grunty's Revenge has turned 15! The Game Boy Advance midquel set between Banjo-Kazooie and Banjo-Tooie is beloved by some and dismissed by others, but DK Vine has always had nothing but adulation for its bizarre ways. Go back in time with us to 2003 as we pick up our GBAs and go back in time to 1998, so that we may go back in time to 1978.
Fri, 21 Sep 2018 01:00:00 GMT
625 - Talk Like a Pirate Day 2018
For a special Talk Like a Pirate Day episode, go back in time to witness the very first attempt at a Kongversation "podcast" in the Russell family. Discover that the more things change throughout the years, the more they stay the lame...
Wed, 19 Sep 2018 01:00:00 GMT
624 - Sea of Thieves: Cursed Sails First Impressions
The second major in-game event for Sea of Thieves, Cursed Sails, has now been raised. Following their completion of the story and all nine battles, Hyle and Jeff discuss what it's added to the ever-evolving tapestry of Sea of Thieves.
Fri, 31 Aug 2018 01:00:00 GMT
623 - A D. Ream Come True
Not content with leaving the K. Rool in Smash discussion to just the previous episode of the Kongversation, Hyle invites Thomas and Eric, the "Kremling Kampaigners", to the show for even more geeking out. How do the pair now feel knowing they were partially responsible for this revival of the beloved character?
Fri, 17 Aug 2018 01:00:00 GMT
622 - King K. Rool Comes Aboard!
On Wednesday the 8th of August, it happened. Or rather... it Kaptained. King K. Rool was announced for Super Smash Bros. Ultimate! Hyle and Josh "The Geek Critique" Wallen try to collect themselves for the most momentous event in Donkey Kong Country fandom since Returns was announced some eight years ago.
Sat, 11 Aug 2018 01:00:00 GMT
621 - Shark Week Counterprogramming
Tired of the sorry state of Shark Week, Hyle sets out to fix things by offering his own shark-based programming in the form of a Kongversation episode. He and David talk about the sharks of the Donkey Kong Universe, getting into some heated debates about the science behind Snacker, what exactly a Chomps entails, and other pressing maritime issues. Yeah, I don't think Discovery Channel is going to be very worried.
Sat, 28 Jul 2018 01:00:00 GMT
620 - Mario Tennis Aces First Impressions
Mario Tennis Aces is the newest from Camelot Software Planning, but it's also their best game in years. From the perspective of Donkey Kong and Rare diehards, the Kongversation takes a look at what makes Mario Tennis Aces so magical.
Fri, 20 Jul 2018 01:00:00 GMT
619 - Why Banjo-Kazooie Still Matters
Banjo-Kazooie turns 20! As we already did our Banjo-Kazooie Spotlight episode back in Season 1, let's instead focus on B-K's enduring legacy. Why does a 3D platformer released two years in the Nintendo 64's lifespan still resonate so strongly with gamers and developers today? Hyle and Jeff, as well as numerous Kongversation listeners, weigh in with their opinion!
Sun, 01 Jul 2018 01:00:00 GMT
618 - E3 2018 Wrap Up
E3 is over and done, but we still have a bunch of exclusive thoughts and experiences from the show to share. Since Kongversation famous Kongversation caller Mametchi was at E3, we thought we'd also have him on to do the same. What happened when Mametchi met Rare? What happened when Sea of Thieves stormed Skull and Bones? What about when Hyle and Grant Kirkhope saw each other again? All this and a plethora of Super Smash Bros. Ultimate discussion, because this will be our life until the game's release.
Mon, 25 Jun 2018 01:00:00 GMT
617 - E3 2018 Nintendo
Continuing our E3 2018 journeys, Nintendo's relatively underwhelming Nintendo Direct didn't dissuade us from giving the new Super Smash Bros. Ultimate a chance. We played it on the show floor, with Mitchell going competitive and Hyle doing non-competitive. What do we think? Do we think any more newcomers will make it in? And, most importantly, what would the characters of The Office (U.S.) think of the Shrek movies?
Tue, 12 Jun 2018 01:00:00 GMT
616 - E3 2018 Microsoft
Hyle and Mitchell attended the Xbox Briefing today as the Sea of Thieves content updates for the rest of the summer were revealed, as well as the revival of Battletoads for 2019. Also included in the episode is the annual discussion of our E3 lodging, as well as a surprising discussion about the OTHER games Xbox had to offer. Which one did we irrationally hate? TUNE IN TO FIND OUT!
Sun, 10 Jun 2018 01:00:00 GMT
615 - E3 2018 Preview
It's looking to be a fairly substantial year for the Donkey Kong Universe at E3. With confirmed appearances by both Donkey Kong and Rare, Playtonic keeping mum about potential announcements, and the eternal mystery of what Retro is up to, Hyle and his E3 2018 cohort, Mitchell Wolfe from off of Super Jump, look at what DKU fans can expect this time around.
Sat, 09 Jun 2018 01:00:00 GMT
614 - Sea of Thieves: The Hungering Deep First Impressions
The first major in-game event for Sea of Thieves, The Hungering Deep, launched on May 22nd. After spending an amazing eight hours playing it last Saturday, Hyle and Cameron report back here with their experiences.
Sat, 09 Jun 2018 01:00:00 GMT
613 - Super NES Classic First Impressions and N64 Classic Speculation Center
With news that Nintendo has filed a trademark for the Nintendo 64 Classic mini console, Hyle once again invited Josh Wallen from off of The Geek Critique on the show to have a Kongversation about both the Super Nintendo Entertainment System Classic and the Nintendo 64 Classic... and how the latter would even be possible without the majority of Rare's titles.
Tue, 05 Jun 2018 01:00:00 GMT
612 - Yooka-Laylee (Switch) First Impressions
Now that Hyle has a Switch, he's finally turning his attention to the Donkey Kong Universe-centric games he has yet to pick up. Before any potential Yooka-Laylee DLC hits, that means he's first got to try out the Switch port of Yooka-Laylee. Done in-house by Playtonic over the better part of 2017, does it give Nintendo fans a worthwhile experience? Furthermore, have our opinions on Yooka-Laylee changed now that the game has been out for more than a year?
Mon, 28 May 2018 01:00:00 GMT
611 - Hot Newz, Cold Rumorz
Did you know that Retro Studios is working on a spiritual Diddy Kong Racing successor starring Star Fox characters and featuring one or more cameos from the Kongs? You did? Of course, because it's CRAZY E3 RUMOR SEASON. Even in the face of potential malarkey, we do have some real news to report: Playtonic preparing to unload some new Yooka-Laylee content, Rare doing the same with Sea of Thieves, the sad end of Nosy Crow's app division, Diddy potentially sneaking in Mario Tennis Aces after all, and a non-story about Nintendo getting a new president or something.
Sat, 19 May 2018 01:00:00 GMT
610 - Donkey Kong Country Tropical Freeze (Switch) First Impressions
We've unwrapped Donkey Kong Country Tropical Freeze (Switch, no colon)! What are our opinions on New Funky Mode, the price point, and, perhaps most importantly, where it takes place on the Donkey Kong Universe timeline? Join Hyle and Josh "The Geek Critique" Wallen for a freewheeling discussion!
Tue, 15 May 2018 01:00:00 GMT
Mini 009 - Oops, All Tangents! The DC Universe
OOPS! It's another Kongversation Mini that has nothing to do with the topic matter the show is supposed to be about! Hyle and Jeff talk the DC Comics Universe in light of Action Comics reaching 1,000 issues, DC Rebirth, and the DC Extended Universe collapsing in on itself like that time Kyle Rayner imploded the planet Oa. DON'T PRETEND LIKE YOU DIDN'T GET THAT REFERENCE.
Mon, 23 Apr 2018 01:00:00 GMT
609 - Tales from the Sea of Thieves: A Literary Analysis
There's a new book out, "Tales from the Sea of Thieves", that's presented as an in-universe journal from several hundred years ago. Mildewed and blood-splattered, it's as if you're holding a piece of the game world in your hands. Plus, not only does it expand and flesh out the lore of Sea of Thieves, but it also begins to tie it to the larger Donkey Kong Universe as well...
Mon, 23 Apr 2018 01:00:00 GMT
Mini 008 - Tawkin' 'Bout Tawks
There's a new Animal Buddy in the Switch version of Donkey Kong Country Tropical Freeze. Introducing Funky's personal parrot: Tawks!
Sat, 07 Apr 2018 01:00:00 GMT
608 - Sea of Thieves "First" Impressions
Sea of Thieves is finally here! The Kongversation gives its first impressions of the game in its released form, discussing what we love and addressing the somewhat shaky critical reception. How can anyone hate on a game that lets Hyle play as the ultimate pirate beefcake he's created?
Mon, 02 Apr 2018 01:00:00 GMT
607 - Oh (Smash) Brother!
Before the Kongversation embarks on several Sea of Thieves-related episodes, we take care of the dirty business of Smash Bros. discussion. Now that the fifth (or sixth?) iteration of the series has been announced for the Nintendo Switch, Hyle invites Mitchell Wolfe back to the show to help him deal with the recently scabbed wound being ripped open all over again. WHY WON'T YOU LOVE K. ROOL, SAKURAI?
Sat, 24 Mar 2018 01:00:00 GMT
606 - Call Me Sack Again
The Kongversation gets topical. More than a dozen topics, actually. After discussing some of the recent Donkey Kong news, we open up the show to what our listeners brave enough to phone in want to talk about. Shockingly, it's not just about wanting K. Rool in Smash Bros. It's, uh, a little of that though.
Mon, 19 Mar 2018 01:00:00 GMT
605 - Character Witness: Dixie Kong
Dixie Kong. Video game hero. Trailblazing heroine. The second most famous woman of the 1990's to wear a beret. Dixie's in-universe life story is told here, while we also keep an eye on her constant struggles in the real world, from being ignored by marketing to her frequent multi-year hiatuses. Nevertheless, Dixie persisted. Also, how in shit's name does her hair work?
Tue, 27 Feb 2018 01:00:00 GMT
604 - Forbidden Love in the Donkey Kong Universe
Recorded on Valentine's Day, Hyle and Nick look at the lovelorn, lusty almost hook-ups across the Donkey Kong Universe. It's a raunch-filled evening with more sex than you can shake a stick at. Although if you really want to be successful in the ways of romance, please refrain from shaking your stick at podcast hosts.
Mon, 19 Feb 2018 01:00:00 GMT
603 - Sea of Thieves Closed Beta First Impressions
Hyle and Cameron discuss their experiences in the Sea of Thieves Closed Beta, which ran from January 24th through the 30th. Blissfully, it wasn't under an NDA, so we're actually able to talk about what happened! Are we still fanatical about Rare's newest release, or have ocean temperatures cooled? I realize that ocean temperatures cooling would be a good thing, but in this one specific case it would be a bad thing, so just accept the analogy and move on.
Mon, 05 Feb 2018 01:00:00 GMT
Mini 007 - #TTInSeaOfThieves
Before you listen, check out our YouTube video on the T.T. matter at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VR1jH6zDA9k. Caught up? Good. #TTInSeaOfThieves!
Fri, 02 Feb 2018 01:00:00 GMT
602 - Mario + Rabbids + Donkey Kong = Mar-a-Kongo?
Donkey Kong's going to be DLC in Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle this spring as a playable character inside a DKC-style world, all set to some new Grant Kirkhope music. Mitchell Wolfe is back in the co-host chair to discuss the finer points of Rabbids, hard-to-pronounce Creative Directors, and the glorious return of Donkey Kong 64's helivines.
Sun, 28 Jan 2018 01:00:00 GMT
601 - Donkey Kong Country Tropical Freeze... Returns
A brand new year for the Kongversation begins with a near half-decade old game! But when that game is the brilliant yet overlooked Donkey Kong Country Tropical Freeze, is that really so bad? Hyle and TheCartoonGamer, Malik McLeod, discuss Tropical Freeze for the Switch and the all-new Funky Mode!
Sat, 20 Jan 2018 01:00:00 GMT
541 - New Year's Forecast 2018
The season finale of the Kongversation sees us looking ahead to the distant, far off future of 2018, where we speculate (with reason) on what we'll see for Donkey Kong, Playtonic, and Sea of Thieves 'n' Rare!
Sun, 31 Dec 2017 01:00:00 GMT
540 - The DKU Tribunal Second Term
Before the year is out, Hyle Russell and Jeff Onan reconvene to debate the legality of more games that are potentially part of the shared Donkey Kong Universe: Super Mario Odyssey, Kirby: Planet Robobot, Lunchables Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts and Bolts Aerial Challenge, and Super Mario Maker! Along the way, they get into extremely nerdy debates about, well, everything, up to and including the actual definition of a video game. Oh good. I was getting tired of the Internet complaining about Star Wars. Let's get even more pathetic!
Sat, 30 Dec 2017 01:00:00 GMT
539 - Spotlight: Diddy Kong Racing (part 3)
The modes, worlds, tracks, and bosses of Diddy Kong Racing take us to the finish line of our Spotlight series, along with a contemplative look on the enduring legacy of the game. It's mostly those haystacks with eyes.
Sat, 23 Dec 2017 01:00:00 GMT
538 - Spotlight: Diddy Kong Racing (part 2)
In the second part of the Diddy Kong Racing Spotlight, the boys discuss the surprisingly deep plot and characters of the game. Well, deep for a game where monkeys and mice race each other so they can then fight a large pig man. I'M SORRY YOU DON'T UNDERSTAND, DAD. Also, I don't give a crap that Apple Jacks taste nothing of apple.
Tue, 19 Dec 2017 01:00:00 GMT
537 - Spotlight: Diddy Kong Racing (part 1)
20 years on, Hyle and Cameron reflect on perhaps the most important game ever for fans of Donkey Kong and Rare. It's the game that not only fulfilled the promise of Diddy Kong as a "Video Game Hero", but it introduced the world to Banjo, Conker, and an entire universe of characters.
Fri, 24 Nov 2017 01:00:00 GMT
536 - Character Witness: Mumbo Jumbo
Mumbo Jumbo is a magic man who turns things into other things. He wears a funny skull and has scaly pink skin because of reasons. This is an unnecessary podcast about him.
Thu, 16 Nov 2017 01:00:00 GMT
Mini 006 - Super Mario Odyssey Continuity and the DKU
It looks as though "the merger" was more volatile than we had thought! In this Kongversation Mini, Hyle is joined by Cameron and David to analyze if Super Mario Odyssey's New Donk City has wrecked Donkey Kong continuity, and to also initiate the discussion about whether or not it should be considered a "Donkey Kong Universe" game. Spoilers for New Donk City!
Thu, 09 Nov 2017 01:00:00 GMT
535 - Playing With Super Power: A Literary Analysis
The new book from Nintendo and Prima Games chronicling the history of the Super Nintendo is the latest tome the Kongversation takes off the shelf for a Literary Analysis. This is made somewhat surreal given that DK Vine itself is featured in the book. WHO WAS FIRED FOR THAT BLUNDER?
Thu, 26 Oct 2017 01:00:00 GMT
DXXXIV - Spotlight: Donkey Kong Land III
The celebration of Donkey Kong Land III is here! Weird and sloppy might be how you like your romantic interests, but is it any way to make a Donkey Kong platformer? Hyle and the elusive David Lynch are in a race against time to try and understand what the hell is going on with the concluding chapter of the Donkey Kong Land trilogy.
Tue, 17 Oct 2017 01:00:00 GMT
533 - Everyone's a Critic
Spurred on by the irresponsible journalism and subsequent colorful responses that the last episode generated, the Kongversation discusses ingrained, yet unfair, criticisms of the Donkey Kong Universe from cranky fans and the grumpy gaming media. I can't wait to see what unsourced headlines this episode will be responsible for!
Thu, 05 Oct 2017 01:00:00 GMT
532 - Interview: Craig Duncan, Studio Head of Rare Ltd. (Talk WITH a Pirate Day 2017)
On an episode with a longer title than Sonic and Sega All-Stars Racing with Banjo-Kazooie, Craig Duncan, Studio Head of Rare, joins the Kongversation for a wide-ranging interview. Everything from Sea of Thieves to Craig's (shocking!) favorite Donkey Kong game gets discussed. It's the best Kongversation interview with a Rare Studio Head that's ever been, ever ever ever, on any episode.
Tue, 19 Sep 2017 01:00:00 GMT
531 - Rare Spiritual Successors: Phase Two
Monkeys and crocodile men seem to be back in fashion in gaming, but not in the way we've grown accustomed to. On this episode of the Kongversation, we look at the next round of games inspired by Rare's classics: FortuneFish's Kroko Bongo and Chameleon Games' Tamarin.
Fri, 15 Sep 2017 01:00:00 GMT
530 - Sonic Mania is Running Wild, Brother!
Oh no! Sonic Mania? Has the Kongversation finally run out of Donkey Kong Universe-related topics to yammer on about? Not so fast, Barry Allen! The concept of Sonic diehards making good and churning out the best Hedgehog game in years has intrigued the Kongversation. Sonic expert Josh "The Geek Critique" Wallen and local weirdo Nick "Spuzzwick" Prol join Hyle to talk abou the joys of Sonic Mania, and how a similar philosophy could be applied to Donkey Kong, Banjo-Kazooie, and Conker.
Thu, 07 Sep 2017 01:00:00 GMT
529 - Deal of the Art
For the full effect of this episode, follow along with the DK Vine Gallery at https://www.dkvine.com/games/gallery/artwork/! Cameron leads a look at how the art style of the Donkey Kong series has evolved since Donkey Kong Country. Rare, Nintendo, Paon, and Retro have all had varying takes, but has the soul of Donkey Kong survived all these years later?
Sun, 27 Aug 2017 01:00:00 GMT
528 - Scrubbing Smash's Taint
WHY? Well, that you have such an exasperated reaction should tell you why! Mitchell Wolfe returns to the Kongversation to discuss ways the stigma of Super Smash Bros. can be removed in light of the psychic scars and lingering disappointment over the most recent iteration. Don't worry: The answer isn't "put more Donkey Kong characters in the game". Although, you know, they should put more Donkey Kong characters in the game.
Thu, 17 Aug 2017 01:00:00 GMT
527 - ANIMALS
It's the long-awaited sequel to the Kongversation's Season One classic, "BEARS"! In "ANIMALS", Hyle and Nick discuss the importance of Animal Buddies in the Donkey Kong series. Naturally, this includes exhaustively cataloging each and every one for over three hours. This episode is longer than the natural lifespan of some of these Buddies!
Thu, 10 Aug 2017 01:00:00 GMT
526 - Abortion Clinic: Diddy Kong Pilot
Once upon a time there was going to be a Game Boy Advance follow-up to Diddy Kong Racing called Diddy Kong Pilot. After spending a few years in development hell, it eventually saw release only as a Banjo-Kazooie game called Banjo-Pilot. So what happened? Surprisingly, it's not what you think! This is the tumultuous story of Redneck Kong, K. Rool hunting for the city of El Dorado, Mario as a supporting character to Diddy Kong, and so much more!
Tue, 01 Aug 2017 01:00:00 GMT
525 - The DKU Tribunal
Court court court court court! Introducing the DKU Tribunal, where Hyle Russell and Jeff Onan convene to determine the legality of several games' place in the shared Donkey Kong Universe. On this episode, we examine Yooka-Laylee, Fairytale Play Theatre, Tracky Train, Mini Mario and Friends: amiibo Challenge, and the modern Killer Instinct!
Wed, 26 Jul 2017 01:00:00 GMT
524 - Yooka-Laylee: Beyond World 5
Beyond World 5! Or should that be... bee-yond World 5? No, and I'll ask you kindly to turn around and listen to another podcast if that's the type of wordplay you want to bring to this listening experience.
Tue, 18 Jul 2017 01:00:00 GMT
523 - Better Call Sack!
The crowds of E3 have dispersed, but the Kongversation's Call Sack is bulging! Let's answer all of the previously unheard listener messages on the DK Vine Hotline from March to the present. Have something you'd like to say? 1-202-630-VINE (8463)!
Thu, 06 Jul 2017 01:00:00 GMT
522 - E3 2017 Wrap Up
The final stories, anecdotes, and chicanery from E3 2017, as told by Hyle, Cameron, and Mitchell Wolfe!
Fri, 23 Jun 2017 01:00:00 GMT
521 - E3 2017 Nintendo
We discuss more E3 news from Rare and Sea of Thieves before moving on to the Big N and the Invisible DK. Never before has one character's presence been felt so much at an E3 without ever once appearing...
Wed, 14 Jun 2017 01:00:00 GMT
520 - E3 2017 Microsoft
From the DK Vine Party House, Hyle and Cameron talk about Sea of Thieves, the Xbox One X, and everything else worth noting from Microsoft's E3 2017 Media Briefing! In my humble opinion, it needed more Fake Paid Actors ™ .
Mon, 12 Jun 2017 01:00:00 GMT
519 - E3 2017 Preview
On the precipice of flying out to Los Angeles, Hyle and Cameron sit down to talk about what we're definitely going to see, what we're likely to see, what we're probably not going to see, and just what we'd like to see at gaming's premiere swap meet of international viruses.
Sat, 10 Jun 2017 01:00:00 GMT
518 - Yooka-Laylee: World 5
Right before E3, let's get in one last Kongversation concerning Yooka-Laylee. Joined by Josh "The Geek Critique" Wallen, we talk the outer space/pirate port mash-up Galleon Galaxy. In space, no one can hear your audio being picked up on the other person's microphone!
Sat, 10 Jun 2017 01:00:00 GMT
517 - Character Witness: Diddy Kong
Diddy Kong: Sidekick. Hero. Star. And, uh, back to sidekick again. This is the 23 year story of the little monkey that could, from his first appearance in Donkey Kong Country all the way to the time he rode a pony in Mario Sports Superstars. Are you in the mood? This time, you will be.
Fri, 02 Jun 2017 01:00:00 GMT
516 - Yooka-Laylee: World 4
This week on the Kongversation: Hyle's alcohol dependency grows! Mitchell admits that he finds gambling "interesting"! The Ape Raper is torn between love and career! How will our heroes cope with their own demons? Find out now by listening to the Kongversation!
Fri, 19 May 2017 01:00:00 GMT
515 - Yooka-Laylee: World 3
Head into the muck with Hyle and TheCartoonGamer himself, Malik McLeod! Moodymaze Marsh is one of Yooka-Laylee's most realized worlds yet. With more shopping carts and tentacles than a Japanese adult book store, this episode will ooze its way into your heart (and pants).
Wed, 10 May 2017 01:00:00 GMT
514 - The Most Hilarious Donkey Kong Jokes: A Literary Analysis
Do you like Donkey Kong? Do you like jokes? If so, then you might love this episode, where we discuss the newest book of jokes, "Donkey Kong: The Most Hilarious Donkey Kong Jokes".
Fri, 05 May 2017 01:00:00 GMT
513 - Yooka-Laylee: World 2
For d-ice-cussion on Glitterglaze Glacier, Hyle is joined this episode by Geekscape reporter Adam "The_acz" Lemuz. The best thing about a world based on Disney's "Frozen"? None of the snowmen are actually voiced by Josh Gadd.
Tue, 25 Apr 2017 01:00:00 GMT
512 - Yooka-Laylee: More First Impressions and World 1
Now that Yooka-Laylee is out, the Kongversation begins to discuss the meat of the game both tender and tough. For starters, Cameron is here to give his first impressions, while Hyle shares more thoughts he hadn't yet articulated. Warning: This episode contains Yooka-Laylee spoilers through the end of the first world!
Sun, 16 Apr 2017 01:00:00 GMT
Mini 005 - Yooka-Laylee First Impressions
Hyle has gotten his hands on an early copy of Yooka-Laylee and is ready to give a spoiler free assessment of his first several hours of playing. Does it live up to the two years of hype? Stoned Yooka-Laylee mugshot render designed by /u/Xhogar from off of reddit!
Sun, 09 Apr 2017 01:00:00 GMT
511 - Yookan't Always Get What You Want
Yooka-Laylee is coming out in just a couple of days, but its sprint to the finish line has been suddenly beset by a barrage of arrows being launched from fans and critics alike. On this episode, Hyle and Matt discuss the criticisms and the controversies in the final moments of Yooka's life in the womb. Should we be worried about Yooka's ultimate reception... and its quality?
Sun, 09 Apr 2017 01:00:00 GMT
510 - Interview: Kevin Callahan
Who is Kevin Callahan? That's the question at the heart of this long-awaited interview! The mysterious blogger who fueled the Diddy Kong Racing sequel rumors for years has finally been uncovered, and he's sitting down with Hyle and Nick for close to an hour of hard-hitting questions! Not listening to this podcast would be a "no, no, no! Wrong way!"
Sat, 01 Apr 2017 01:00:00 GMT
509 - Switch First Impressions
It's time to talk about our Nintendo Switch first impressions! One problem. Nobody on the DK Vine staff has thought to purchase one yet. That's why we reached out to Josh Wallen, aka The Geek Critique (https://www.geekcritique.org), to sit down with us and chat about the Pro Controllers and the Joy-Cons of the system for an epic three hour discussion.
Sat, 25 Mar 2017 01:00:00 GMT
508 - This Episode Is About Yooka-Laylee and Sea of Thieves
With Yooka-Laylee nearing release and revealing Sea of Thieves info coming outside of the confines of the secretive Technical Alpha, there's no time like the present to do another news roundup on both upcoming major games! Keeping it spoiler free save for what both Playtonic and Rare have officially announced, we hype ourselves up for the two new additions to the shared Rare universe. This episode will also settle the age old debate of which is more terrifying. Is it living skeletons returning from the grave or vending machines?
Fri, 17 Mar 2017 01:00:00 GMT
507 - Sack It To ME?
You heard beloved Donkey Kong Universe character Richard Nixon (from off of #IDARB)! It's time for another Call Sack episode, where the Kongversation takes any and all phone messages from the DK Vine Hotline. Dial 1-281-410-KONG to be on the next one! On this edition, we discuss the finer points of adult bookstore etiquette and get into the history of clowns. This all somehow relates back to Donkey Kong or Rare.
Fri, 10 Mar 2017 01:00:00 GMT
506 - DLC Returns
As the gaming world gets prepared to SWITCH out their soiled underwear in anticipation for Nintendo's new mulligan console, a discontented minority have already proclaimed it dead on arrival thanks to the incoming Zelda downloadable content. On this episode, Hyle and Nick examine how hyperbolic these concerns are while looking at our own history of DLC in the Donkey Kong Universe. Is DLC ever a good thing?
Fri, 3 Mar 2017 01:00:00 GMT
505 - Spotlight: Mario Kart 64
Everything is turning 20, and now it's Mario Kart 64's turn. At least it's not old enough to drink and drive yet! On this episode, Hyle and Cameron reflect on the very first "Cameo Game" in the Donkey Kong Universe. How was Rare's Donkey Kong treated in the hands of another developer? Less importantly, how much fun is the game itself?
Wed, 22 Feb 2017 01:00:00 GMT
504 - Orange Backer: Mametchi
Last year, Hyle lost a bet that he now has to make good on. The consequence? Letting notorious Kongversation caller "Mametchi" co-host an episode of the show. Yes, it's a very bizarre edition of the Kongversation! We're ostensibly here to talk about Universal Studios' upcoming Super Nintendo World park and the possibility of a Donkey Kong minecart ride, but we're really at the whims of Mametchi for this one.
Sat, 11 Feb 2017 01:00:00 GMT
503 - The Merger
In light of New Donk City in Super Mario Odyssey, the Kongversation asks if we're headed towards a full-on attempted merging of the Donkey Kong and Mario series. Hyle takes Nick on a journey through time, exploring how the wall separating the two franchises was built and how it's been slowly chipped away at over the course of 20 years. Should we be worried? Can the Donkey Kong Universe survive?
Thu, 2 Feb 2017 01:00:00 GMT
502 - Character Witness: K. Rool
K. Rool. He's gone from being a tossed-off parody of the typical big fat lizard boss to one of the most beloved Nintendo and Rare characters of all time. His fanbase has grown wildly over the last couple of years, but will his owners ever catch on? They will if they listen to this episode! Here's the two-and-a-half hour life story of K. Rool, from what we know about his early days all the way up to the time he put on a diaper to play baseball. CHECK OUT THE T.T. MUSIC DANCE YOUTUBE VIDEO! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qx0zmIOvVI8
Wed, 25 Jan 2017 01:00:00 GMT
501 - Switchfest
The Kongversation returns for its fifth year to discuss Nintendo's seventh console! All the highlights of the recent reveals are discussed, but, us being the Kongversation, we naturally want to talk about one thing above all others: New Donk City in Super Mario Odyssey.
Wed, 18 Jan 2017 01:00:00 GMT
452 - New Year's Forecast 2017
We'll meet again some sunny day! On the season finale, we take up some unresolved business from 2016 in the form of the games Tracky Train and the modern Killer Instinct. Then, we look ahead to a year in which we might all die, but we'll hopefully get some awesome games before the fallout hits us.
Sat, 31 Dec 2016 01:00:00 GMT
451 - Star Wars and the DKU
In this scam of an episode, Hyle and Nick discuss Star Wars! Star Wars and how it relates to the Donkey Kong Universe, right? Uh, sure. That sounds like something we'd do. Let's roll with that. Rogue One spoilers ahead!
Sat, 31 Dec 2016 01:00:00 GMT
450 - Spotlight: Donkey Kong Country 3 (part 4)
It all wraps up here! The final four worlds of the game (K3, Razor Ridge, KAOS Kore, and Krematoa) are extensively discussed, followed by our take on that Queen Banana Bird ending. What more could possibly be said about Donkey Kong Country 3? Find out on Spotlight: Donkey Kong Country 3 (Game Boy Advance), coming in 2025!
Sat, 24 Dec 2016 01:00:00 GMT
449 - Spotlight: Donkey Kong Country 3 (part 3)
In the third part of Spotlight: Donkey Kong Country 3, Hyle and Nick discuss the first four worlds of the game! Lake Orangatanga, Kremwood Forest, Cotton-Top Cove, and Mekanos are all covered in absurd detail. Or should that be Mekanos and then Cotton-Top Cove? Should that have been Nick and then Hyle? Should we have done this episode before the last one? RELATIVITY HAS STRIPPED ALL ORDER FROM MY LIFE.
Sat, 17 Dec 2016 01:00:00 GMT
448 - Spotlight: Donkey Kong Country 3 (part 2)
In an exhaustive three-and-a-half hour second part, Hyle and Nick discuss the plot, setting, and characters of Donkey Kong Country 3. We also get into the behind-the-scenes shift, as a new team took the reins of Donkey Kong and put their own unique touch on the mythos. It's an episode filled with big-jawed crocodiles, parallel birds, and, of course, BEARS!
Mon, 5 Dec 2016 01:00:00 GMT
447 - Spotlight: Donkey Kong Country 3 (part 1)
Our Donkey Kong Country 3: Dixie Kong's Double Trouble! extravaganza begins! On the first part, Hyle babysits giant toddler Nick who helps him reminiscence about the year leading up to Donkey Kong Country 3. What were the preconceptions about a third Donkey Kong Country? What was finding out all of the information like? How did one react when first confronted with the notion of the Brothers Bear? Get nostalgic for 1996 and the release of DKC3 all over again!
Sun, 27 Nov 2016 01:00:00 GMT
446 - Diddy Kong Racing Rumors Escape: The Diddy Kong Racing Adventure Pitch
It's been over a year since the last Kevin Callahan sighting, but if we look even further backwards in time we'll learn about a different Diddy Kong Racing sequel. On this episode we discuss the studio Climax's bizarre pitch to Nintendo for Diddy Kong Racing Adventure, a GameCube fever dream featuring Diddy Kong, Banjo, Conker, Mumbo Jumbo, and Cranky Kong soaking in mud.
Sun, 20 Nov 2016 01:00:00 GMT
445 - Dialing Imperialist Western Call Sack With Glorious Red Phone From Mother Russia
Greetings comrades! DK Vine was under assault this week by Putin-backed forces thanks to a comedic political article we ran. While the site is now almost fully restored across the board, Chad and Hyle decide to shake off the stress by opening the Call Sack and discussing a myraid of topics about Donkey Kong, Rare, and Playtonic that you the people called in with! To be on a future Call Sack episode, ring the DK Vine Hotline at 1-281-410-KONG and leave us a message!
Sun, 13 Nov 2016 01:00:00 GMT
444 - Politics in the DKU
Are you sick of people talking politics yet? Good! Because on this episode, we talk about politics! How do campaigns, elections, and government work in the Rare Archipelago? We'll examine the systems that Donkey Kong Island, the Isle O'Hags, Willow Woods, and the rest all use to govern. If that sounds like a boring civics lesson, then don't fear! We also do a lot of cheap Bill Clinton impressions and make a lot of jokes about Donald Trump being a colossal turd of a human being!
Sat, 5 Nov 2016 01:00:00 GMT
443 - Birthdays and Aging in the DKU
The realization that most DK Vine staff members and their associates have birthdays from the last week of October through November made us think of birthdays in the Donkey Kong Universe. How do ageless cartoon characters handle birthdays? Or... ARE they ageless? How DOES getting old work in the shared universe of Donkey Kong, Banjo, and Conker? Everything from Donkey Kong's canonical birthday month to Tiny Kong's puberty is discussed in this cake-laden episode!
Sat, 29 Oct 2016 01:00:00 GMT
442 - The Nintendo Switch
The Nintendo NX is dead! Say hello to the Nintendo Switch, the true mastermind behind our years of speculation on Nintendo's Wii U mulligan. On this episode of the Kongversation, Hyle and Nick (and Chad, sort of!) give their first thoughts on Nintendo's initial roll out of Switch information.
Mon, 24 Oct 2016 01:00:00 GMT
441 - Salvaging Star Fox
After fighting a recent illness that's kept him off his feet, Hyle stumbles out of bed with a delayed Kongversation recorded just before the unveiling of the Nintendo NX. Joined by Star Fox enthusiast Cameron Reigle, they ask what could possibly save the Star Fox franchise after the colossal failure of Star Fox Zero. Believe it or not, their answer isn't a Tricky solo game. I mean, sure, they'd support that one hundred percent, but...
Fri, 21 Oct 2016 01:00:00 GMT
440 - Shoveling the News Dump
Abandoning the need to celebrate things that happened in the autumn of 1996, the Kongversation instead discusses recent news concerning both Yooka-Laylee and Shovel Knight. Included is an exclusive Yooka news report filed by a listener who played the game at Twitchcom!
Sat, 8 Oct 2016 01:00:00 GMT
439 - 20 Years of the Nintendo 64
20 years after its release, Hyle throws a three-pronged claw controller to Nick to help him discuss the brilliant yet flawed legacy of the Nintendo 64. Equal parts celebration and examination, we reflect on the memorable games and complicated history of the system that led Nintendo to where it is today. Only '90s kids will understand this episode!
Mon, 3 Oct 2016 01:00:00 GMT
438 - Spotlight: Donkey Kong Land 2
20 years of Donkey Kong Land 2! On this Spotlight episode, Hyle is rejoined by the long lost Joe Mudd to discuss the most curious game in Rare's Donkey Kong-related output. Not a port, not a remake, but definitely not an original game either. What is Donkey Kong Land 2 and what sense can we make of it? It's time to raise Crocodile Isle one more time! We hope you enjoy Lockjaw's Saga...
Sat, 24 Sep 2016 01:00:00 GMT
437 - Talk Like a Pirate Day 2016
Happy Talk Like a Pirate Day! On this joyous High Holy Day, Hyle crews up with Nick to speculate about what we're going to see in Sea of Thieves. I'm guessing pirates, right?
Mon, 19 Sep 2016 01:00:00 GMT
436 - Character Witness: Cranky Kong
The Kongversation examines the life history of the Kong who started it all. We're not talking Godzilla! No, we're talking gorilla. Cranky Kong!
Sat, 10 Sep 2016 01:00:00 GMT
435 - Yooka and Thieves at gamescom
Hyle's back from his honeymoon, still exhausted from the excessive drinking at his bachelor party (and the circumstances of his current move). Still, he's raring (and Playtonicing) to go, so join him and Chad as they discuss the recent reveals for both Yooka-Laylee and Sea of Thieves at gamescom in Cologne, Germany!
Sat, 3 Sep 2016 01:00:00 GMT
434 - Hyle's Bachelor Party
Crack a beer open and think of your favorite Playtonic community manager, because it's time to celebrate Hyle's actual bachelor party! Chad rounds up an unrelenting onslaught of well-wishers to augment the unrelenting onslaught of alcohol. Fair warning... this one is a little unhinged!
Sat, 27 Aug 2016 01:00:00 GMT
433 - Inside Mr. Pants' Pants
Rare recently, for some reason, revealed the secrets behind the making of It's Mr Pants. Because we're diseased individuals, this was the greatest day of our lives. Here's everything you ever wanted to know about Pants (but were afraid to ask).
Fri, 19 Aug 2016 01:00:00 GMT
432 - Banjo-Poonzooie: A Literary Analysis
Hyle teams with Nick this week to give an insightful perspective on the new Amazon Kindle exclusive tome "Banjo-Poonzooie: An Erotica Parody". Put the kids to bed early for this one.
Sat, 13 Aug 2016 01:00:00 GMT
431 - Yooka-Laylee Toybox First Impressions
Yooka-Laylee's Toybox is here! The pre-release Steam sandbox for intrepid Kickstarter backers was distributed last week, but already controversy has erupted on the DK Vine Forum about the "tone" "of" "the" "game". Yes, we'll be discussing the character of Inept, but we'll also actually get into whether the damned thing is fun to play. You see, it turns out some people PLAY video games instead of just endlessly bitching about them online. Weird, right?
Sat, 6 Aug 2016 01:00:00 GMT
430 - Sea? C For Comic-Con!
With the page turned on San Diego Comic-Con for another year, Hyle is joined by DK Vine Forum members The_acz and Special Agent Ape to discuss their time at the event. They were personally at the Sea of Thieves panel hosted by Rare, as well as the Donkey Kong-related shenanigans thrown by Nintendo! Learn all about what Rare revealed for Sea of Thieves, what Donkey Kong trivia questions were being asked, and how the guys decided to steal the identities of both Chad and Hyle. For The_acz's interview with Joe Neate from off of Rare, head over tohttps://www.geekscape.net/sdcc-2016-interview-sailing-together-with-joe-neate!
Sat, 30 Jul 2016 01:00:00 GMT
429 - Call Sack: The Purge
Now on the other side of E3, it's time to fully purge the Call Sack of the listener messages that have been accumulating since winter. Every topic concerning the Donkey Kong Universe, Rare, Playtonic, and Nintendo is on up for grabs as we give the show over to you at home. Would you like to call in and be on a future episode? Give us a ring at 1-281-410-KONG!
Sat, 23 Jul 2016 01:00:00 GMT
428 - E3 2016 Wrap Up (and Call Sack!)
The Kongversation escapes from LA! Yes, Chad and Hyle wrap up their exhaustive E3 2016 coverage with some stray anecdotes and thoughts from the time spent on the show floor (such as when they talked about ghosts with Phil Spencer). Afterwards, they wash it all down by answering long overdue listener calls!
Sat, 16 Jul 2016 01:00:00 GMT
427 - E3 2016: Our Week At Rare (part 2)
When last we left off, we were just entering the doors of Rare headquarters. What happened on the inside? Who did we meet? What did we see? Take our hand as we tour Rare Ltd. in the most surreal Kongversation of all time.
Sat, 9 Jul 2016 01:00:00 GMT
426 - E3 2016: Our Week At Rare (part 1)
Surprise! A few weeks ago we had the amazing experience of being invited to Rare Ltd. in Twycross to tour the studio, meet the staff, and play Sea of Thieves before anyone else. Here's the first chapter in the untold story of our week at Rare.
Sat, 2 Jul 2016 01:00:00 GMT
425 - E3 2016 Nintendo
Hyle is joined by "future DK Vine staff member" Mitchell Wolfe on this, the Nintendo episode of the Kongversation's E3 2016 specials! Mitchell was at E3 alongside Chad and Hyle and actually got to play Zelda (no small feat considering the lines). They talk a bit about that game before delving into the Donkey Kong Universe offerings for Nintendo: The new Donkey and Diddy amiibos, Mario Party Star Rush and even a bit on Yooka-Laylee and Skylanders Imaginators.
Mon, 27 Jun 2016 01:00:00 GMT
424 - E3 2016 Microsoft
Now that the cat's out of the bag (and the bag's in the Sea of Thieves) about us going to Rare headquarters a few weeks back, we discuss E3 2016's Microsoft Monday festivities! The big Sea of Thieves coming out party was impressive. We just didn't know that we were actually going to play a part in it...
Wed, 15 Jun 2016 01:00:00 GMT
423 - E3 2016 Preview
It's time once again for E3! We know Sea of Thieves and Yooka-Laylee will both make big appearances at the show, but what other surprises could be in store for the Donkey Kong Universe? We invite our listeners to call in and speculate with us in this special E3 kickoff!
Sun, 12 Jun 2016 01:00:00 GMT
422 - Yooka-Laylee News Orgy (part 2)
It's the second part of the Yooka-Laylee news orgy! In this episode, we try to pivot to talk about the gameplay-centric reveals in Edge Magazine, but our callers keep wanting to discuss "those" implications in the story. Just when we thought we were out, they pull us back in!
Sat, 04 Jun 2016 01:00:00 GMT
421 - Yooka-Laylee News Orgy (part 1)
Playtonic has revealed a plethora of information on Yooka-Laylee, including the story, the supporting characters, and, oh, yeah, a certain goldfish beloved by the DK Vine community. It's time for a Yooka-Laylee news orgy!
Sun, 29 May 2016 01:00:00 GMT
420 - Character Witness: Funky Kong
It's the Kongversation season 4, episode 20! Naturally, there's only one topic we could do. It's a character history of Funky Kong! This is one dank episode. It's some good ass podcast.
Sat, 21 May 2016 01:00:00 GMT
419 - The Hall of Fame 2016 Town Hall!
Which characters should get into the DK Vine Hall of Fame Class of 2016? The debate is on, so for this episode we invited our listeners to call in to stump for their favorites. Ready to cast your ballot? Vote at www.dkvine.com/halloffame through May 21st of 2016!
Sat, 14 May 2016 01:00:00 GMT
418 - Retro Moves On?
Internet chatter has it that Retro's next game is neither Donkey Kong Country nor Metroid, but rather a completely new IP. We spend this episode trying to come to term with this news, reflecting on Retro's massive contributions to the series along the way. Will we play their new game? Who do we think will develop a DKC game next, and do we think a new DKC is even remotely likely anytime soon?
Sat, 07 May 2016 01:00:00 GMT
417 - Ninten(annoyed grunt)
It's been an interesting week for fans of Nintendo. From Star Fox Zero's release (that's been contentious in the DK Vine community) to renewed rumors of a Monster Games-developed Diddy Kong Racing, it would have been enough to base an entire episode around. But then Nintendo seemed to set their entire company on fire by announcing that the NX, and Zelda, are delayed until March of next year... and the Wii U version of Zelda is the only game they're showing at E3. HUH? Note that Hyle originally wanted the episode title "NintenD'OH!", thinking it would please classic Simpsons fan Chad. Chad argued that they should double down and go with the more obscure Simpsons reference "Ninten(annoyed grunt)". Chad won.
Sat, 30 Apr 2016 01:00:00 GMT
416 - Interview: Steve Mayles and Andy Robinson of Playtonic
This is a big one! We sit down with legendary character designer Steve Mayles (the artist behind Dixie Kong, K. Rool, and Banjo-Kazooie) and games journalist-turned-Playtonic wordsmith Andy Robinson to discuss Yooka-Laylee! We leave no stone unturned or sacred cow untipped: Will Yooka-Laylee appear at E3? When are the backer rewards coming? Does the Nintendo NX change their plans for the Wii U version? Is there really a Playtonic/Rare rivalry? Which character was Steve hoping would appear in Smash Bros.?
Sat, 23 Apr 2016 01:00:00 GMT
415 - Hey Kids! DKU Comix!
On this episode, Chad is forced to face the consequences of a wager made a couple of weeks ago and eat a dangerous amount of spaghetti. As a result, DK Vine staffer Nick "Spuzzwick" Prol sits in with Hyle to discuss his magnum opus called DKU Comix (www.dkvine.com/comix).
Sat, 16 Apr 2016 01:00:00 GMT
414 - What Happens When I Die?
This week, Chad is suffering from low energy and is disinterested in everything (save for Minecraft)! Hyle is battling anxiety and succumbing to crippling panic attacks (so many Skylanders figures to buy)! Naturally, their thoughts are on only one thing: The sweet release of death. But what happens when you die? Let's took towards the Donkey Kong Universe to find out!
Sat, 09 Apr 2016 01:00:00 GMT
413 - A Brief History of Donkey Kong Universe Action Figures
Before toys-to-life and LEGO-branded everything, kids had to get their jollies through articulated hunks of plastic called action figures. On this episode, we look at the history of Donkey Kong Universe action figures, from the original Donkey Kong figure line from 1999 all the way to Jakks Pacific's World of Nintendo series.
Sat, 02 Apr 2016 01:00:00 GMT
412 - Ape-ril Fools
The Kongversation breaks a day early with shocking revelations about Nintendo, Diddy Kong Racing Wii U, Masahiro Sakurai and more! You won't believe your ears after you hear this one!
Fri, 01 Apr 2016 01:00:00 GMT
411 - NX Hoaxes, Rumors and Desires
Wrapping up a week of supposed NX leaks that turned out to be hoaxes, Hyle and Chad reflect on the brief panic on the street that resulted from the nonsense. Then they ask: What do we REALLY want out of the NX?
Sun, 27 Mar 2016 01:00:00 GMT
410 - Sackey Call Country
It's another episode where we clear out the Call Sack and answer your questions on a wide range of topics from across the Donkey Kong Universe! What's the old wacky gang of Kongversation listeners up to this week? If you'd like to get on the show, remember to leave a message at 1-281-410-KONG!
Sat, 19 Mar 2016 01:00:00 GMT
409 - Character Witness: Conker
Conker's Bad Fur Day just turned 15 years old (still far short of the 21 year legal drinking limit)! In honor of the old chap, we introduce our newest episode gimmick called Character Witness! One part biography and one part introspective psychoanalysis, we put Conker on the couch and explore how his character has evolved from his debut in Diddy Kong Racing all the way to last year's Big Reunion.
Sat, 12 Mar 2016 01:00:00 GMT
408 - What Makes a Shared Universe Great?
Professor X, Wolverine and Deadpool. Superman, Batman and Wonder Woman. Balki, Urkel and Joey Gladstone. Shared universes are all the rage these days, but what makes one truly successful? Hyle forces Chad to consider his extremely nerdy passions as he compares and contrasts some of the most popular shared realities with the Donkey Kong Universe!
Sat, 05 Mar 2016 01:00:00 GMT
Mini 004 - Young Conker on HoloLens
It's our first on-topic Kongversation Mini! In this episode, the Kongversation invades your living room and dances on your coffee table. Oh yeah, and Chad and Hyle's heads now have the proportions of Rocky Dennis from Mask. Introducing... Young Conker!
Tue, 01 Mar 2016 01:00:00 GMT
Mini 003 - Oops, All Tangents! The X-Files Season 10 Final Impressions (part 2)
Our self-indulgence ends here! Hyle and Chad face the end of the world, but luckily their ALIEN DNA keeps them safe in the face of the Cigarette Smoking Man's nefarious conspiracy of shit writing.
Tue, 01 Mar 2016 01:00:00 GMT
407 - Late Winter News Headlines
News from across the Donkey Kong Universe has begun to pile up over the last several weeks, meaning this episode of the Kongversation is dedicated to cleaning off our front stoop. Mini-Mario and Friends: amiibo Challenge! Yooka-Laylee! Sea of Thieves! THE RELEASE OF THE NINTENDO NX?
Sun, 28 Feb 2016 01:00:00 GMT
Mini 002 - Oops, All Tangents! The X-Files Season 10 Final Impressions (part 1)
It's another off-topic Kongversation Mini! Picking up where we left off with our First Impressions, here's part one of our take on the last chunk of The X-Files Season 10. Take some 'shrooms, kick back and let your mind take you to the nearest honky tonk for our raging bitchfest.
Wed, 24 Feb 2016 01:00:00 GMT
406 - Young Conker Rumors
Rumors are spreading and evidence is building that a new Conker game, cleverly titled "Young Conker", is on its way. Chad and Hyle talk about the possibilities this week, debating whether or not they even want to see this game and if a Conker prequel would even work.
Sat, 20 Feb 2016 01:00:00 GMT
405 - Spotlight: Donkey Kong Jungle Beat
It's universally beloved and reviled. It's the epitome of the post-Rare Buyout Era; a declaration of war against Donkey Kong Country fans and a game every Donkey Kong Country fan should play. It's a... giant chicken head on a plant stalk. Play fresh with Donkey Kong Jungle Beat!
Sat, 13 Feb 2016 01:00:00 GMT
404 - Minecraft First Impressions
Minecraft? We're talking about MINECRAFT? Nonsense! This is the Kongversation! How the hell does Minecraft relate to the Donkey Kong Universe? Well, a few years back several Rare Ltd. skins were offered as DLC. This allowed you to run around the game as Banjo, Conker and other cherished weirdos. Then, a few weeks ago, Chad fell in love with the game. Now that he's hip with the kids, can he convince Hyle to be the same?
Sat, 06 Feb 2016 01:00:00 GMT
403 - #IDARB First Impressions
#IDARB, the Xbox One indie game that's one part NBA Jam and one part futuristic soccer (packaged in an old-school gaming wrapper), is the newest game in the Donkey Kong Universe! Banjo, Kazooie, Conker, a Fudgehog and more Rare Ltd. characters have officially been added to its roster. That's all well and fine, but is the game any good? Hyle and Chad are on the case!
Sat, 30 Jan 2016 01:00:00 GMT
Mini 001 - Oops, All Tangents! The X-Files Season 10 First Impressions
It's the first MINI episode of the Kongversation! When news breaks, or we want to go on an off-topic rant that would be entirely unsuitable on the main show, we'll be producing these off-schedule episodes in addition to our normal weekly ones. First up, it's a tangent about the new season of The X-Files!
Tue, 26 Jan 2016 01:00:00 GMT
402 - Two Hacks Empty the Call Sack
We've let our audio mailbag fill up to critical levels over the past couple of months! In this episode, we answer YOUR calls concerning topics from across the Donkey Kong Universe. Donkey Kong Country, Smash Bros., the Nintendo NX and more are all discussed! Call the DK Vine Hotline at 1-281-410-KONG!
Sat, 23 Jan 2016 01:00:00 GMT
401 - Abortion Clinic: Dream
It's a new year! Let's stop looking ahead and instead turn the clocks back 20 years as we discuss the game that eventually became Banjo-Kazooie: The long-fabled Project Dream! Rare has finally divulged enough information about this oft-romanticized title, so sit back with us as we break it down and add our perspective.
Sat, 16 Jan 2016 01:00:00 GMT
353 - New Year's Forecast 2016
It's the season finale of the Kongversation! As per tradition, Chad and Hyle, plus various DK Vine staffers, all convene to discuss the year ahead in the Donkey Kong Universe. What triumphs and disappointments await? Check our our rewards on Patreon! https://dkvine.com/patreon
Thu, 31 Dec 2015 01:00:00 GMT
352 - Goldilocks and Little Bear First Impressions
On this most festive week, let's kick back and enjoy a game for toddlers. WHAT? WHY? Well, because Nosy Crow's interactive storybook, Goldilocks and Little Bear, has some surprising connections to the Donkey Kong Universe, that's why! This is going to be our weirdest First Impressions episode yet. Check our our rewards on Patreon! https://dkvine.com/patreon
Sat, 26 Dec 2015 01:00:00 GMT
351 - Spotlight: Donkey Kong Country 2 (part 4)
The final half of the game is discussed in exhaustive detail as Chad and Hyle reminisce about their favorite moments from Donkey Kong Country 2. A cluster of listener callers then provide us all with some definitive thoughts on this masterpiece. Check our our rewards on Patreon! https://dkvine.com/patreon
Sat, 19 Dec 2015 01:00:00 GMT
LIVE! 001 - November 15, 2015
It's the Kong-Kong-versation... LIIIIIIVE! Chad and Hyle kick off this new format by taking on a number of extraordinarily passionate listener callers in realtime! This episode is being posted on a 1-month delay, but you can get in on the real-time exclusivity by patronizing our Patreon at the $10 a month tier! The next live broadcast will be on Saturday, December 19th at 5:00 PM EST! https://www.dkvine.com/patreon Check our our rewards on Patreon! https://dkvine.com/patreon
Sun, 13 Dec 2015 01:00:00 GMT
350 - Spotlight: Donkey Kong Country 2 (part 3)
It's the third part of our three-part Donkey Kong Country 2 retrospective! Wait, wait... let's make it a four-parter. We have so much to say about the game, we could only get through Krazy Kremland this week. Check our our rewards on Patreon! https://dkvine.com/patreon
Sat, 12 Dec 2015 01:00:00 GMT
349 - Spotlight: Donkey Kong Country 2 (part 2)
Hyle and Chad continue their epic dissection of what makes Donkey Kong Country 2 the greatest game their feeble minds are able to comprehend. Conversationally rended to bits in this episode are the animal buddies, new Kongs, Kremlings, instruction booklet, and new game mechanics. We'll talk about the game one of these days! Check our our rewards on Patreon! https://dkvine.com/patreon
Sat, 05 Dec 2015 01:00:00 GMT
348 - Spotlight: Donkey Kong Country 2 (part 1)
Here it is! The first installment of our epic three-part reminiscence fest on Donkey Kong Country 2: Diddy's Kong Quest. Our favorite video game of all time. The greatest platformer ever. Come sail with us to Crocodile Isle, won't you? Check our our rewards on Patreon! https://dkvine.com/patreon
Sun, 29 Nov 2015 01:00:00 GMT
347 - Nintendo Directile Dysfunction
Bill! Bill! BILL!!! Chad and Hyle simply didn't respond to the announcements, nor the bizarre sketch comedy of the latest Nintendo Direct, and only partially because neither of them is named Bill. They, along with a cabal of callers new and old, mount an expedition of the mind and spirit. The destination: a sense of peace, fulfillment, and understanding over whatever the hell it was we all just watched. Check our our rewards on Patreon! https://dkvine.com/patreon
Sat, 21 Nov 2015 01:00:00 GMT
346 - The World of Banjo-Kazooie
In anticipation of Banjo-Tooie's 15th anniversary, we take a look at the rich, interconnected world it created with the Isle O'Hags. More than that, we also examine how the Jiggy pieces of Banjo's world fit together. Where exactly is Spiral Mountain? What exactly are the worlds connected to Gruntilda's Lair? Do L.O.G. and Showdown Town RUIN EVERYTHING? Check our our rewards on Patreon! https://dkvine.com/patreon
Sat, 14 Nov 2015 01:00:00 GMT
345 - What's the DEAL with Nintendo Lately?
Ever since Nintendo's arguably underwhelming showing at E3, and the death of President Satoru Iwata, the company's actions have been... well, curious is the polite phrasing. Chad, Hyle, and a selection of callers (most of them Mametchi) attempt to unpack the past and divine the future of Nintendo Company Limited. Check our our rewards on Patreon! https://dkvine.com/patreon
Sat, 07 Nov 2015 01:00:00 GMT
344 - Fearbringers
Though the Donkey Kong Universe started as a series of child-friendly games, it's never shied away from the unsettling. Chad, Hyle, and a handful of callers remember and uneasily celebrate some of the creepiest moments this cartoon animal-centric series has to offer. Check our our rewards on Patreon! https://dkvine.com/patreon
Sat, 31 Oct 2015 01:00:00 GMT
343 - DK Vine Sells Out
So it's come to this... Patreon. DK Vine is evolving, and with this episode we're proud to usher in the new era of the site. Discover what you get by becoming a Patron and what DK Vine can become if we convince enough of you to do so. Then, in the second hour, we take listener calls and discuss some of the Donkey Kong Universe news of the day. Learn more about DK Vine on Patreon at https://dkvine.com/patreon!
Sat, 24 Oct 2015 01:00:00 GMT
342 - Spotlight: Donkey Kong Land
Donkey Kong Land recently came to the Virtual Console and celebrated its 20th anniversary. Only the second-ever game in the modern Donkey Kong series and the entire Donkey Kong Universe, it didn't just ride the wave of Donkey Kong Country mania when it debuted: It helped make that wave a tsunami. So why has this classic Game Boy game been mostly forgotten by the history books? Hyle and Chad dust off their banana yellow cartridges and head back to Donkey Kong Land's four worlds for an audio trip full of nostalgia, celebration and personal revelations.
Sat, 17 Oct 2015 01:00:00 GMT
341 - Skylanders SuperChargers First Impressions
The most surprising crossover of 2015 has to be Donkey Kong (and the other guy... you know, the turtle thing from Mario) appearing in Skylanders SuperChargers. Hyle, being the DKU absolutist he is, went all in on the game and its myriad of starter packs. So, how does the snobbish Donkey Kong Country fan take to a game that's commonly thought of as a cash grab for children? Surprisingly, it might be too intellectual for him...
Sat, 10 Oct 2015 01:00:00 GMT
340 - The Many Deaths of Conker the Squirrel
A squirrel can have as many lives as he thinks he can get away with. Unfortunately, the same can't be said for his games. Chad, Hyle, and a few callers celebrate Rare's Conker Theme Week with a look back at the cancelled titles in his oeuvre, including the newest game to join those ranks: Project Spark: Conker's Big Reunion. It's true what they say; You don't really know what it is you even have until it's gone. Gone. Gone.
Sat, 03 Oct 2015 01:00:00 GMT
339 - The Donkey Kong Universe Canonization Battles of 2015
We're often asked why we consider one game part of the Donkey Kong Universe and not another. Our legal framework is simple: We cover every game that follows on from or spins out of Donkey Kong Country. Well, it USED to be simple, but we live in an ever-complicated era full of Twitter proclamations from the creators and confusing IP ownership. Join us as we discuss three games that may or may not be part of the Donkey Kong Universe, then call 1-281-410-KONG to complain!
Sat, 26 Sep 2015 01:00:00 GMT
338 - Talk Like a Pirate Day 2015
Yarr ha-harrr, hoist the mainbrace, etcetarrrrrrrra! We take a break from Rare Replay to indulge a handful of bizarre listener calls, followed by an update on everything we (probably don't) know about Rare's upcoming pirate game, Sea of Thieves! Call the Kongversation with your questions at 1-281-410-KONG (5664).
Sat, 19 Sep 2015 01:00:00 GMT
337 - The Fetal Days of Banjo-Kazooie
Gregg Mayles recently released a massive amount of information on the early days of Banjo-Kazooie. That is, everything between Project Dream and the version we've come to know and adore (and have sexy dreams about). In this episode, we discuss the saucy tidbits of Banjo's development we never knew before. Programming note: Chad's continuing to have issues with his microphone, so his audio becomes webcam about ten minutes in before reverting back near the end. We either need to get Chad a new microphone or we need to get a new Chad. Whichever is cheaper...
Sat, 12 Sep 2015 01:00:00 GMT
336 - Emptying Our Call Sack 2
With a steady amount building up over the last several weeks, we've got no choice but to stop, drop everything, and empty our Call Sack once again! Yes, it's a listener call episode. If you'd like to participate in this nonsense, don't forget that you can contribute by phoning the DK Vine Hotline at 1-281-410-KONG. Nervous? Then have no fear, because this week's episode is sponsored by alcohol!
Sun, 6 Sep 2015 01:00:00 GMT
335 - Abortion Clinic: Donkey Kong Country 2 (Virtual Boy)
In honor of the Virtual Boy's 20th anniversary, we take a look at the controversial but charming "third tier" of Nintendo in the mid-1990's. Touching upon every released game for the system, we lead up to the brief development of Rare's red and black Donkey Kong Country 2 port. Welcome to Space World. Let's go!
Sat, 29 Aug 2015 01:00:00 GMT
334 - X15 Ways to Cleave Your Canon
We're once again joined by Steve from Rare Gamer (raregamer.co.uk), this time to discuss his experiences at Microsoft's X15 show in Toronto. He dug in deep with several Rare employees, but did he get any dirt? Later in the show, we get a special call from a VERY IMPORTANT PERSON concerning the canon of Rare Replay's opening musical number. WHO COULD IT BE? Oh, it's Chris Allcock from Rare. Hi, Chris!
Thu, 27 Aug 2015 01:00:00 GMT
333 - Rare Replay First Impressions (part 2)
Instead of having this be part 2 of 30, we opted instead to get in as much Rare Replay discussion as possible in this episode, touching on nearly every game. See, we could have just said "from the sublime games to the BALL-BUSTING INFURIATING ones, Rare Replay is a massive achievement and a worthy tribute to the company's storied legacy." We could have said that. We turned it into a two hour-plus podcast instead.
Sat, 15 Aug 2015 01:00:00 GMT
332 - Rare Replay First Impressions (part 1)
It's a Rare Replay; let's join the fray With opinions and nostalgic talk! The most rambling words that you've ever heard, We're far less skilled than Chris Allcock.
Sat, 08 Aug 2015 01:00:00 GMT
331 - Diddy Kong Racing Wii U Rumors vs. Godzilla
It's the return of Kevin Callahan and new Diddy Kong Racing Wii U rumors! Before that, we discuss the latest from Rare Replay and Super Smash Bros. For, including that controversial K. Rool costume. Fake characters and fake news. Is there anything real about this week's episode?
Sun, 02 Aug 2015 01:00:00 GMT
330 - Mr. Iwata's Last Bow
After taking a handful of listener calls, Chad and Hyle make a borderline inappropriate tonal shift into a somber and respectful (yes, really!) conversation about the sadly deceased corporate president, game developer, and gamer Satoru Iwata, and the legacy he has left us all.
Sat, 25 July 2015 01:00:00 GMT
329 - MFWolfe's Comic-Caze Mission
Chad and Hyle are joined by Kongversation caller and DK Vine Forum member Mitchell Wolfe to discuss the Donkey Kong Universe showings at San Diego Comic-Con 2015! Mitchell was in attendance and gives his recollections from the front lines on both Rare and Nintendo's presence at the only show nerdier than E3.
Sat, 18 July 2015 01:00:00 GMT
328 - Emptying Our Call Sack
Happy Xmas (E3 is Over)! It's been a ridiculous amount of time since we checked in with our listener hotline, but there's no better time than the present. Unless that time was a few weeks ago, so we wouldn't be in this mess at all. That probably would have been a better time.
Sat, 11 July 2015 01:00:00 GMT
327 - E3 2015 Wrap Up
We put E3 2015 to bed with an orgy involving the DK Vine staff. Well, not Jeff. Learn the thoughts, opinions and reflections of Matt, Cameron, Nick and Joe as DK Vine wraps up our wildest E3 yet.
Sat, 04 July 2015 01:00:00 GMT
326 - E3 2015: Our Week With Rare
Here's the inside story of Chad and Hyle meeting close to a dozen Rare staffers, both past and present, at E3. The most surreal week ever of our years of fandom involved lengthy conversations about Rare Replay, Sea of Thieves and the entire history of Rare. This episode is a day-by-day recounting of our time with the Twycross crew, and we share everything we believe we're allowed to discuss. Is the magic really back?
Sat, 27 June 2015 01:00:00 GMT
325 - E3 2015 Nintendo
So what do we think about the old N's showings? The boys give their thoughts on Donkey Kong's starring turn in Skylanders, Star Fox Zero and the ramifications this has on continuity, Mario Tennis: Ultra Smash and more! We also share our experience with Nintendo on the show floor at E3, including chance encounters in the men's room. Spicy stuff!
Wed, 17 June 2015 01:00:00 GMT
324 - E3 2015 Microsoft
The #Rarenaissance goes to the past! The #Rarenaissance takes to the seas! Rare fans unite, as Chad and Hyle are joined by Amir from Killer Instinct Central and Steve from Rare Gamer to talk about Gears of War 4! Wait, no. We're talking about Rare Replay and Sea Of Thieves, as well as the new Rare logo and return of the company's grand ethos of humor and world building. All this, plus a very special meetup we had with three Rare employees after the Microsoft event. You don't want to miss this episode!
Mon, 15 June 2015 01:00:00 GMT
323 - E3 2015 Preview
Chad and Hyle are joined by DKVine staffer Jeff Onan to discuss everything they hope to see at this year's Electronic Entertainment Expo! As the trio is fond of bragging, they have become quite good at "reading the tea leaves" over the years. Prepare yourself for both well-reasoned soothsaying and wild, blind stabs in the dark. All told, this episode encompasses DKVine's final predictions for E3 in the calm that precedes the biggest gaming storm of the year!
Sun, 14 June 2015 01:00:00 GMT
322 - One Weak Episode One Week Before E3
With only a week until E3, we're scrambling to get things ready for the biggest time of the year (for a weirdo Donkey Kong website). We've got some Yooka-Laylee news to discuss at the very end of the show, but first some basic E3 pimping and lots more listener calls to plow through.
Sat, 06 June 2015 01:00:00 GMT
321 - We Two at E3 with Wii U and You, Too
An unprecedented E3 announcement leads the show (after an unnecessary David Letterman discussion), which has largely been telegraphed by this episode's title. But after their BOMBSHELL ANNOUNCEMENT, they spend the bulk of this episode plowing through the backlog of listener calls that piled up the last two weeks while we were busy shitting on nostalgic rose-tinting.
Sat, 30 May 2015 01:00:00 GMT
320 - Spotlight: Donkey Kong 64 (part 2)
Concluding our retrospective on Donkey Kong 64, we break down the worlds one-by-one... only to discover that they're doing the same to us. It's the good, the bad, and the Chunky as we have a serious discussion about what works with DK64 and what its ultimate failings are.
Sat, 23 May 2015 01:00:00 GMT
319 - Spotlight: Donkey Kong 64 (part 1)
1999 brought Chad and Hyle together for the first time, DK Vine was created, and all eyes were on a single title - Donkey Kong 64. Now they revisit the Rare N64 classic to determine whether it truly is the best game ever made, or if they were just shitty teenagers with shitty teenage opinions.
Sat, 16 May 2015 01:00:00 GMT
318 - Conker's Big Reunion: Episode 1 First Impressions
With the first completely new Conker adventure in fourteen years now part of the Donkey Kong Universe, Hyle and Chad give their verdict on Big Reunion! Plus, we give the game for free to nine lucky listeners!
Sat, 09 May 2015 01:00:00 GMT
317 - Yoo Talk Yooka-Laylee To Mee
Unless you've been living under a rock lovingly rendered by Steven Hurst, you know that Project Ukulele is now the mind-boggingly successfully funded Yooka-Laylee! Chad and Hyle discuss their thoughts on the upcoming title, whether or not it's a proper DK Universe game yet, and some unfortunate byproducts from the Internet's reaction at large.
Sat, 02 May 2015 01:00:00 GMT
316 - Interview: Brian Perry of Team Dakota
Conker's back! We sit down with Brian Perry of Team Dakota, the developers behind Project Spark and Conker's Big Reunion, to get the inside scoop on how our favorite squirrel was revived and where he may be headed next.
Sat, 25 Apr 2015 01:00:00 GMT
315 - Deep Breath
It's the calm before the storm of DLC, games, Kickstarters, and E3 occupies our collective headspaces, preventing us from functioning as productive members of society. So Chad and Hyle do the most productive thing they can think of, and clear out the call log before digging into the latest from the Wii U's Virtual Console, and everything to expect from Nintendo, Team Dakota, Playtonic, and Rare in the next two months. It's a packed one, folks.
Sat, 18 Apr 2015 01:00:00 GMT
314 - Silverbacker: Zeppelin
DK Vine Forum member Zeppelin (aka Andy Barrett) takes over the Kongversation via his Silverbacker status! Chad and Hyle talk with him about the aesthetics of the Donkey Kong series and how presenting a realistic natural world helps set the games apart from other platformers. It's more entertaining than it sounds!
Sat, 11 Apr 2015 01:00:00 GMT
313 - April Rools Day
It was an unusual April 1st for everyone paying attention to the latest news from Nintendo. Chad, Hyle, and a series of call-in listeners attempt to make sense of the implications for Rare, Nintendo, Banjo, Donkey Kong, and indeed, THE ENTIRE WORLD AS WE KNOW IT.
Sat, 04 Apr 2015 01:00:00 GMT
312 - It's Mr Iwata: Mobile Edition
After taking a bevy of calls from the Kongversation Hotline's heavy-hitters, Hyle and Chad discuss the latest in DKU news. On deck are crossover possibilities for Project Ukulele, confirmation of Mumbo Jumbo's species, and finally Nintendo President Satoru Iwata's announcement that Nintendo will begin developing games for mobile platforms. Oh, and naturally, nasal diarrhea.
Sat, 28 Mar 2015 01:00:00 GMT
311 - Rarenaissance
Chad and Hyle are joined by Joe Mudd to take a round of listener calls, then discuss the latest news out of Rare, Team Dakota, and Playtonic. It's a veritable Rarenaissance, and we haven't figured out a more tolerable way to describe it!
Sat, 21 Mar 2015 01:00:00 GMT
310 - Interview: Chris Sutherland
In this very special episode, we sit down with former Rare programmer and project director Chris Sutherland (Donkey Kong Country, Banjo-Kazooie, Grabbed by the Ghoulies, Kinect Sports) to discuss his tenure in the Donkey Kong Universe and his future with the newly-formed Playtonic Games. We better act our age!
Fri, 13 Mar 2015 01:00:00 GMT
309 - Spotlight: It's Mr Pants
Remember It's Mr Pants? The 2004 handheld puzzle game featuring a pasty stick man in a bowler hat and red undies? Well, Chad and Hyle sure do! In this week's episode, they relive it all so you don't have to. Smile, baby!
Sat, 07 Mar 2015 01:00:00 GMT
308 - Playing It Loud
In one glorious day, the entire Donkey Kong Country and Donkey Kong Land trilogies arrived on the North American Nintendo eShop while Nintendo also revived their infamous "Play It Loud" slogan specifically for Donkey Kong. Yeah, we're pretty happy with life right now.
Sat, 28 Feb 2015 01:00:00 GMT
307 - New Nintendo 3DS First Impressions
What can we say, it's a slow news week. Chad and Hyle discuss the latest bits and bobs from Playtonic Games before delving into the fantastic New Nintendo 3DS and its not-so-fantastic name.
Sat, 21 Feb 2015 01:00:00 GMT
306 - World War Threeie
First there were Donkey Kong 64 2ish rumors. Then Hat in Time. Lobodestroyo. New Banjo-Kazooie rumors. Okay, okay, you get the point! So what's the big deal? Well, listen up! Because there's a new dynamic studio from the creators of Donkey Kong Country and GoldenEye that's ready to kick some serious excitement into 3D platforming. IT'S PLAYTONIC GAMES!
Sat, 14 Feb 2015 01:00:00 GMT
305 - Honourable Mentions: Jet Force Gemini
The Kongversation introduces a new feature this week, in which we shine a spotlight on an Honourable Mention - one of the many games that was very nearly part of the larger Donkey Kong Universe. Up first is Rare's criminally overlooked 1999 classic Jet Force Gemini. Friend of the show Alastair Craig drops by to gush over this incredible game in nauseatingly positive detail.
Sat, 07 Feb 2015 01:00:00 GMT
304 - Winter Shitfuck Advisory
We're coming out of the most-depressing week of the year, but still waist-deep in the Winter Shitfucks. Chad and Hyle try to weather the storm of the most desolate time of the year for a Donkey Kong Universe fan by essentially goofing off and taking calls for close to two hours.
Sat, 31 Jan 2015 01:00:00 GMT
303 - Super Smash Bros. For Wii U First Impressions (part 2)
Part Two of Chad and Hyle's enormously controversial Super Smash Bros. for Wii U impressions continues, this time with an unapologetic fan of the game, Jeff Onan, in tow. The trio discusses some new rumors about that old chestnut Rare returning to form, take a few calls, and then dig into the meat of the show - whether Smash Bros should get a pass for ignoring its single-player fans, despite being a fantastic multiplayer experience. This one got even heateder than last week, folks.
Sat, 24 Jan 2015 01:00:00 GMT
302 - Super Smash Bros. For Wii U First Impressions (part 1)
We've been hyping it for two months, so let's do this thing. In PART ONE of our two-part Smash Bros. for Wii U episode, Chad and Hyle are joined by Joe to first talk about this week's Nintendo Direct before spending over an hour giving what's sure to be controversial opinions on a critical and fan darling. This one is going to get heated, folks.
Sat, 17 Jan 2015 01:00:00 GMT
301 - Wii U: Two Years Later
It's been two years since we gave our first impressions on the Wii U. How has the financially-maligned system shaped up in the intervening time? Chad and Hyle talk about that and can't get over the fact that Sarah Jessica Parker still looks like a horse. Welcome to another season of the Kongversation!
Sat, 10 Jan 2015 01:00:00 GMT
