Despite a notable lack of Donkey Kong himself, I’d say this is a clear improvement on the original game. The most important upgrade is the sheer amount of interesting level mechanics, which are introduced smoothly and iterated on throughout the entire game. The game is less frustrating because it’s better at teaching you through its design… and optional text tutorials.

Also, Jib Jig is a g.o.a.t. videogame song. Most of the songs are. Worth playing even just for the soundtrack.