Donkey Kong: Nintendo’s 1981 Arcade Classic!

Donkey Kong, Nintendo’s 1981 arcade smash, launched a gaming legend! Designed by Shigeru Miyamoto, it introduced Jumpman (yep, Mario’s original name) and the mischievous ape, Donkey Kong. In this vibrant platformer, you guide Jumpman through a construction site to rescue Pauline from the clutches of the barrel-tossing Kong across four iconic stages: Girders, Elevators, Rivets, and Conveyors.

The gameplay’s a thrilling mix of timing and reflexes. Dodge rolling barrels, climb ladders, leap over fireballs, and swing hammers to smash obstacles. Each level ramps up the chaos, with Kong hurling surprises like bouncing springs. Its catchy tunes and colorful pixel art hooked players, while the simple controls—jump, climb, run—made it accessible yet fiendishly tough.

Donkey Kong birthed Nintendo’s empire, launching Mario into stardom and inspiring countless sequels and ports. It pioneered storytelling in games, with cutscenes showing Kong’s antics. A quarter-eating arcade titan, it’s still a retro gem, playable everywhere from cabinets to consoles.

Ready to climb to glory? Channel your inner Jumpman and take on the king of the arcade jungle!