Nintendo goes ape over DK slang

Nintendo has filed an application with the US Patent and Trademark Office for ownership of the phrase "It's on like Donkey Kong."

According to CNN, the publisher is looking to snag the trademark in the run up to the release of Donkey Kong Country Returns next month.

For those not well versed in such street jive, the Urban Dictionary tells us that the phrase was first popularised by Ice Cube in his 1992 Predator album and means: 'it's time to throw down or compete at a high level.'

Nintendo insists it's "an old, popular Nintendo phrase that has a number of possible interpretations depending on how it's used."

"In addition to Nintendo's use, it has been used in popular music, television and film over the years, pointing to Donkey Kong's status as an enduring pop-culture icon and video game superstar."

No confirmation yet as to whether the request has been accepted, but in the meantime you'd better watch your smack talk. Wouldn't want a Nintendo lawyer on your case now, would you?

Donkey Kong Country Returns barrels onto Wii from 3rd December.