A young Pauline appears to be a sidekick of sorts in the upcoming Switch 2 exclusive, Donkey Kong Bananza. The accidentally revealed promo art following the game’s reveal during its Switch 2-focused Nintendo Direct has since been changed.
Apparently at one point, according to ResetEra users, Nintendo Korea’s DK Bananza page showed DK with Pauline holding onto his tie. Of course, since the art has been replaced; it’s obvious this was one big oopsie.
Many have pointed out this appears to be a younger version of her. This could mean either it’s a prequel of some sort. Naturally, Nintendo will leave us guessing, especially as this wasn’t how it wanted people to find out Pauline’s in the game.
Donkey Kong Bananza launches exclusively to the Nintendo Switch 2 on July 7, 2025.