Donkey Kong is an arcade platform game released by Nintendo in 1981. It was one of the earliest examples of the platform genre, and was the first to incorporate multiple stages, as well as the ability to jump.
It was the first game designed for Nintendo by Shigeru Miyamoto, and his mark on the industry was immediately apparent, introducing both the eponymous Donkey Kong and Mario (originally named Mr. Video and then Jumpman) in his debut game. Donkey Kong would become one of the most influential and commercially successful arcade games of all time, and some 35 years hence, competition for the highest score remains fierce.
It also launched both the Mario and Donkey Kong series of games, which have delighted players for decades. Mario and DK would lock horns for the last time in Donkey Kong for Game Boy. The original angry ape would retire, going by his nickname Cranky Kong starting in Donkey Kong Country. His grandson would become the new Donkey Kong, and Mario's friend.
