Donkey kong screen retro

Dive into the details of the classic Donkey Kong game, released by Nintendo in 1981, in a macro shot of the retro screen.

About this subject

Donkey Kong is a landmark in video game history, released by Nintendo in 1981 as an arcade game. Created by Shigeru Miyamoto, it introduced iconic characters like Jumpman (later Mario) and the damsel in distress, Pauline. The game was one of the first to feature a straightforward narrative in arcade format, with Jumpman climbing platforms to rescue Pauline from a giant gorilla.

The game's design deeply influenced the industry. Donkey Kong pioneered the use of cutscenes (short animations between stages) to tell a story. The mechanics of jumping over obstacles like barrels and moving platforms established the platformer genre. Its success led to the creation of the Mario franchise and solidified Nintendo as a gaming giant.

Technically, the game ran on custom hardware with a Z80 processor at 4 MHz. The screen resolution was 256x224 pixels, displaying bitmap graphics in a limited palette. The sound effects, such as the iconic rolling barrels, were composed by Yukio Kaneoka. The original version used a 19-inch CRT monitor, now a nostalgic collectible.

Culturally, Donkey Kong transcended arcades. The character appeared in numerous sequels and spin-offs, becoming a pop culture icon. The famous 'kill screen' at level 22 is studied by speedrunners. In 2015, the game was inducted into the World Video Game Hall of Fame, recognizing its enduring legacy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which was the first game to feature the character Mario?

The first game to feature Mario (then called Jumpman) was Donkey Kong, released in 1981 by Nintendo.

Why is Donkey Kong considered an innovative game?

Donkey Kong was innovative for introducing a narrative through cutscenes, platform mechanics, and charismatic characters, setting standards for the genre.

What is the 'kill screen' in Donkey Kong?

The kill screen is a bug at level 22 where the game logic fails, making the level impossible to complete. It is a point of interest for speedrunners and game scholars.