The controls seem complicated, but become easier after Cranky Kong and Wrinkly Kong's demonstration. The L Button moves DK left, on the land and in the air. The R Button moves DK right in the same fashion. To jump, hit the L and R buttons at the same time. Hold L and R to do a charge jump. The B button will restore one heart on the life meter, at the cost of 10 bananas. The A button activates an ability called "Going Bananas", which causes DK to become invincible, at the cost of 20 bananas.

In the game, players swing around on pegs, in a way similar to Clu Clu Land. Scattered throughout levels, in addition to Peg Boards and Bananas, are Crystal Coconuts, Medallions, Enemies, and Bonus Barrels.