Donkey Kong
1981 • Nintendo
8/10Nintendo
ArcadePlatformer
The arcade classic that introduced Mario (then Jumpman) and Donkey Kong in a construction site climbing adventure.
Gameplay
Climb construction sites while avoiding barrels and obstacles thrown by Donkey Kong to rescue Pauline across multiple levels.
Historical Context
Miyamoto's first major creation for Nintendo, designed when the company needed a hit to break into the American arcade market.
Fun Facts
- • Mario was originally called Jumpman
- • Created by Shigeru Miyamoto as his first major game
- • Donkey Kong was meant to mean 'stubborn ape'
Cultural Impact
Introduced two of gaming's most iconic characters and established the template for character-driven platform games.
Review
Donkey Kong's simple but challenging gameplay and memorable characters laid the foundation for Nintendo's future success in character-driven games.