Nintendo Reinvents an Icon: A Fresh Look for a Legendary Ape
May-21-2025

This article explores how classic character designs are being refreshed, demonstrating Nintendo's commitment to evolving its legendary figures.
Nintendo has been steadily refining the appearances of its well-known characters, with one of the most significant transformations involving the popular ape from the franchise. The new look was initially spotted in a major animated film and has since been adapted for use in upcoming video game titles, including a racing challenge and a new adventure game.
The creator behind the iconic design, whose work on the original ape and its close companions has been recognized for over thirty years, has expressed his approval on social media. He conveyed his gratitude for the thoughtful update and acknowledged that the new design honors the spirit of his initial creations while delivering a fresh perspective.
Among the most notable modifications in the revised version… character is a shift in headwear; the new design features a cap adorned with a distinctive emblem. This alteration marks a departure from the previous style and aligns the video game representation more closely with the cinematic version, as observed by industry commentators.
The original designer playfully concluded his remarks by suggesting that the character is now ready for further adventures, humorously noting that a challenging racecourse along with an imposing, caped competitor would be the perfect next step.
How do you feel about this refreshed interpretation of the character?