The recent Nintendo Direct livestream brought exciting news for Donkey Kong fans: Pauline is officially returning in Donkey Kong Bananza. When the game was first announced in April, eagle-eyed fans spotted a mysterious female character accompanying DK in leaked artwork. Many speculated this could be a younger version of Pauline, potentially making Donkey Kong Bananza a prequel to 2017's Super Mario Odyssey.

Pauline originally debuted as the damsel in distress in the classic Donkey Kong arcade game. After Princess Peach became Mario's primary love interest, Pauline's appearances became rare - until her resurgence as the mayor of New Donk City in Super Mario Odyssey. Since then, she's appeared in various spin-offs including Super Smash Bros. Ultimate and Mario Kart World.

The Nintendo Direct revealed crucial details about Donkey Kong Bananza, confirming the mysterious character is indeed Pauline. Interestingly, she appears as Odd Rock - a stone-like creature who assists DK on his quest. The trailer shows her rocky exterior breaking during an encounter with a massive gorilla, revealing young Pauline underneath.

While DK searches for the legendary Golden Bananas, Pauline's storyline involves trying to return home after being mysteriously transported to Ingot Isle. According to in-game lore, reaching the planet's core grants a wish, setting the stage for their joint adventure through the underground world.

Most intriguing is Pauline's childlike appearance, contrasting with her adult portrayals in previous games. This strongly suggests Donkey Kong Bananza serves as a prequel, prompting fan theories about how it connects to the broader Donkey Kong and Mario universe. The game's potential to reshape series lore has the community buzzing with anticipation ahead of its July 17 release.