Nintendo legends Donkey Kong and Bowser to feature in Skylanders

Publishers collaborate to add classic Super Mario figures that will work with games by both of them

Donkey Kong wields a barrel that he lobs at enemies, Bowser spawns koopas to create his own mini army - it sounds like classic Nintendo gameplay, but this new outing for the much-loved characters is very different.

In a deal announced today, the duo are to appear as collectible figures in Skylanders Superchargers, the latest title in Activision's "toys to life" franchise. Arriving with their own vehicles, the new Skylanders will also function as Amiibos, making them compatible with a range of Nintendo's own Wii U titles.