>>713205405true. DKC1 was about fluid platforming with the ability to roll for speed and some minor secret finding. DKC2 leaned more into searching for secrets but still had solid platforming with some gimmick levels. 3 had way more gimmick levels.
DK64 was basically a collectathon with DK skin. Lots of gimmicks and puzzles. Platforming was way too basic.
How would you take DKC to 3D?
I'd make a 3D version of DKC1/2. Focus is on platforming. Can roll for speed. Levels are linear and selected on a map, more like Mario 3D World than the open levels of SM64. But some hidden secrets, bonus barrels with one off challenges, stages with animal buddies, and small puzzles to find rare coins to unlock bonus levels.