Retro Studios' newest title sees them once again helm the ape that has been at the centre of Nintendo for thirty years. After the success of Donkey Kong Country Returns on the Wii (and more recently, the 3DS), the makers of Metroid Prime are taking Donkey, Diddy and Dixie into battle against Vikings in Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze.

The storyline sees Donkey Kong Island invaded by Viking creatures, such as walruses and penguins, as Donkey and his simian relatives must fight against the enemies and the cold snap that they have brought with them.

Of course, the storyline is merely background dressing for the game itself, which thankfully is as enjoyably challenging as ever. It handles just like Returns, once again using the Wii Remote and Nunchuck to control the monkeys; with the analogue stick allowing for movement while the various face buttons serve the purpose of attacking, jumping or interacting. You can play using the GamePad, but Nintendo is keen to push the Wii Remote and Nunchuck.

The demo showcased a number of environments that have now become familiar in the franchise, such as the standard platforming level, underwater elements (which have been improved since Returns as they are now smoothly incorporated within levels), barrel-blasting and mine cart-riding.

While blasting between barrels or riding in a mine cart, the camera now rotates around the world, rather than being stuck in one spot, adding a lot of life to what have become standard practice within the series. Timing your cart or barrel jumps now requires even the most seasoned players to stay on their toes as you must consider multiple angles.

Dixie Kong makes her first appearing in a long time, although she wasn't available in the demo we played. However, the interaction between Kongs remains as integral as it has ever been, with co-operative gameplay favoured. While you can play by yourself, having one of the smaller apes there to help you reach problematic platforms make the experience more enjoyable.

You can now also pick up and throw certain enemies, opening up new puzzle elements. This may seem like a minor addition, but if Retro Studios implement it successful, there is the potential for Tropical Freeze to offer brand new challenges.

Nintendo is keen to point out that the HD graphics allow for much more detail, including the rather fuzzy-looking fur on Donkey Kong. It may seem like PR spin, but when you first see him up close you really do get a sense of texture from Donkey Kong. In fact he almost looks stroke-able, but we wouldn't advise it.

While it was difficult to hear in the environment we played in, the wonderful music the series is known for makes a return. Coupled with the improved graphics, Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze looks set to be a thoroughly enjoyable title.