Red-Hot Ride

Red-Hot Ride is the fourth level of Crocodile Cauldron in Donkey Kong Country 2. It is unlocked after beating the level Lava Lagoon. The level Squawks's Shaft comes after Red-Hot Ride.

Summary
Red-Hot Ride is a lava themed level similar to Hot-Head Hop, however is notably different because of how Diddy and Dixie get around; while there are walking segments, this level's defining feature is the usage of Hot Air Balloons. These blue balloons can be jumped on and directed left or right to get over the large gaps of lava below. Rising steam emitted from the lava can help lift up the balloons and keep the Kongs above the lava. Zingers serve as obstacles while going over the lava.

Rambi is featured in this level, found fairly early on. Rambi can defeat the Zingers in the way, in addition to the Kruncha brutes easily. Also, his charge ability can be used on a wall to access a bonus room where Rambi, typically, must take out several minions under a time limit to earn a Kremkoin. The other half of the level must be done without the rhinoceros' aid.

The general gameplay of the level revolves around hopping on the Hot Air Balloons and using them to get to safer areas before reaching the ground. As stated previously, steam can help keep the balloons afloat, and the boost up can prove to be a life-saver or ender depending on the situation. Given there are also two DK Barrels found in the level, mistakes must be scarce.

Enemies



 * Click-Clack: 1
 * Flitter: 4 (3 more in a bonus room)
 * Klobber: 4
 * Klomp: 5 in the bonus room.
 * Kruncha: 7
 * Neek: 3
 * Zinger: 20

Animal Buddies

 * Rambi the Rhinoceros: Shortly after the "K", his crate is on a cliff.

Items



 * K-O-N-G Letters:
 * K: Found hovering above some lava.
 * O: Under a Zinger, hovering above lava -- best reach with Rambi's help.
 * N: Above two Zingers; use a barrel to defeat the Zingers.
 * G: Found right before a trio of Zingers.
 * No Animal Sign: 1
 * Banana Coin: 5
 * Barrel:s
 * DK Barrel: 2
 * TNT Barrel: 1