The gameplay in Donkey Konga 2 involves hitting one drum, both drums, or clapping to match the rhythm when the cursor passes the corresponding icon. You score points when your timing is correct. The game features different modes, including drumming with a partner, mini-games for up to four players, and street performance mode where you can earn coins to exchange for new music, sound effects, and mini-games.
The game has 25 new songs of various genres and two versions: one that includes the DK Bongos input device and a lower-priced version without it. You can also play freestyle, match a set performance score to play all the game's songs in one sitting, or battle against an opponent in regular games or drum roll contests.