Donkey Kong Country - The swimming levels

1994 | Nintendo | SNES

Donkey Kong Country was a gorgeous looking game for its era. It’s pre-rendered 3D graphics were revolutionary for a 16-bit console game and blew the minds of gamers and developers alike when the world saw just what the humble SNES could do. Less celebrated though is the game’s soundtrack, but it’s just as integral as the visuals in creating the lush package that is DKC. The game’s swimming levels are a jaw-dropping testament to that.

After the various bouncy jungle beats of game’s score previous to it, the Coral Capers level is a revelation. Beautiful, ambient waves of synth spill over simple but atmospheric keyboard loops and soft and moody drums to create a piece of music that drenches the player in relaxation. Far from merely being a good piece of game music, it’s downright splendid in its own right, and if you think it’s good at the beginning, just wait until the soaring guitars kick in.

All of that is poured over a swimming level far more sedate and mellow to play than the often panic-filled 2D Mario equivalents, and finished off with some beautifully gentle water distortion effects overlaid across the whole screen. Could any other level in 2D platforming be as calming? No, but there is one that’s not far off.

But we’re getting ahead of ourselves… For now, hit the video to see why you really need to break out your SNES again this Christmas.