Donkey Kong: Nintendo's iconic gorilla

602 mots | Temps de lecture : 3 minute(s)

Donkey Kong is one of the most iconic characters in video game history. Born in the early 80s , this powerful gorilla went from villain to hero . Whether in arcade, platform, racing or rhythm, he has left his mark on several generations. A member of the Nintendo pantheon alongside Mario, Link or Samus, Donkey Kong has become a symbol of longevity , power and fun .

Origins and first appearance

Donkey Kong made his first appearance in the 1981 arcade game Donkey Kong . Designed by Shigeru Miyamoto , the game features a giant gorilla holding a young lady captive, while a small "Jumpman" (later Mario) attempts to rescue her.

The success was dazzling : DK became a global phenomenon, propelling Nintendo into the American market and introducing a simple but striking narrative .

Fun fact : The 1981 Donkey Kong is now identified as Cranky Kong , the grumpy grandfather of today's DK.

Donkey Kong becomes a hero

In the 90s , on Super Nintendo, Donkey Kong was reinvented as a hero thanks to Rare and the Donkey Kong Country series:

• Revolutionary pre-rendered 3D graphics
• Smooth and demanding gameplay
• Cult soundtrack by David Wise

DK protects his bananas and fights against the Kremlings , helped by Diddy Kong .

Characteristics and personality

• Species : anthropomorphic gorilla
• Look : bare-chested, red "DK" tie
• Personality : courageous, loyal, a little naive
• Strengths : Colossal power, jumps, rolling attack
• Passion : bananas!

Highlights

• Donkey Kong Country (1994)
• DKC 2 & 3 – more technical
• Donkey Kong 64 – 3D “collectathon” adventure
• Donkey Konga – musical game with bongos
• Jungle Beat – platform music played on bongos
• DKC Returns & Tropical Freeze – Acclaimed Return

Multiplayer presence

• Mario Kart – heavy character, high top speed
• Super Smash Bros. – Powerful Grabs and Charges
• Mario Party – take turns being a player, host, and player
• Mario Sports – Physical Power at the Meeting

The Kong Family

• Diddy Kong – agile and loyal
• Dixie Kong – flies with her hair
• Cranky Kong – the grumpy ancestor
• Funky Kong – Surfer Handyman
• And others: Tiny, Lanky, Chunky…

At the cinema

In Super Mario Bros. The Movie (2023), Donkey Kong – voiced by Seth Rogen – battles Mario and then becomes his ally, bringing an explosive, modern energy to the big screen.

Evolution and heritage

Redesigned in 1994 , its design – muscular gorilla, red tie – remains almost unchanged. Its name, a mix of “ Donkey ” (stupid) and “ Kong ” (gorilla) is now cult .

Why is Donkey Kong a cult classic?

• Arcade Pioneer
• Villain → Hero Transformation
• Rich and recognizable universe
• Longevity of more than 40 years
• Fun power symbol

Conclusion

Donkey Kong is a living legend in gaming. From arcades to HD consoles, he embodies the power and simplicity of pure fun . Always ready to make some noise, DK remains a timeless hero… and a gorilla you'll never forget!