How'd you make a 3D Donkey Kong game?

[Kriven]

The problem is: DK's a gorilla, and gorillas don't climb like that.

You know, I can't really see DK transitioning to 3D well without it being similar to the DK64 title. He's so 2D that it's difficult for me to picture. Kirby is another character I could never visualize well like this. I mean, I'm not stifled here. I've got great ideas for DrillDozer, Starfy, or Yoshi in 3D, but DK just doesn't seem to work in something that isn't DK64.

With one exception. Although it's way bias on my part because I love this genre, but DK could probably work well in something like Marvel Ultimate Alliance with maybe more emphasis on platforming and a few different gameplay mechanics (like Animal Buddies, and less combat-centric controls.)

Edit: While we're in a Kong topic, does anybody know who owns the rights to the Diddy Kong Racing characters? Is that Nintendo or Rare?