Donkey Kong (USA)

Donkey Kong stands as one of the most influential and recognizable titles in gaming history, establishing conventions that would define platform games for decades to come. Released by Nintendo in 1981, Donkey Kong introduced the world to both the titular ape and a mustachioed hero then known as Jumpman, who would later become gaming's most famous mascot, Mario. As one of the defining retro games of the golden arcade era, Donkey Kong challenged players with its precision platforming across four distinct levels as they attempted to rescue Pauline from the barrel-throwing gorilla.

What makes Donkey Kong particularly significant is how it revolutionized gameplay through distinct stage designs and character personalities. Donkey Kong was among the first games to tell a story through gameplay and simple cutscenes, creating memorable characters that would spawn Nintendo's most successful franchises. The game's innovative level design in Donkey Kong introduced multiple gameplay elements including climbing ladders, jumping over obstacles, and avoiding moving hazards. These mechanics would become fundamental building blocks for countless platformers that followed, cementing Donkey Kong's place as one of the most influential games ever created.

Donkey Kong's impact extends far beyond its initial arcade success, launching two of Nintendo's most valuable franchises and establishing the company as a creative force in gaming.

While many retro games have faded from cultural memory, Donkey Kong remains instantly recognizable across generations of gamers.

The character of Donkey Kong himself would later evolve from villain to hero in his own successful series, while Mario would become gaming's most recognizable figure, appearing in over 200 games across four decades of Nintendo platforms.