When discussing the origins of the beloved video game characters Donkey Kong and Mario, gamers and fans often find themselves debating which character came first. The rivalry between these two characters has been the subject of numerous discussions, but the truth behind their origins may surprise you.
1. Who came first: Donkey Kong or Mario?
In terms of their first appearances, Donkey Kong actually came before Mario. Donkey Kong made his debut in an arcade game called "Donkey Kong" released by Nintendo in 1981. The game featured a large gorilla kidnapping a damsel in distress and a heroic carpenter attempting to rescue her. This carpenter, known as Jumpman in the game, is the character that would later be renamed as Mario.
2. How did Mario get his iconic name?
Jumpman, the character initially known as the carpenter in Donkey Kong, was eventually given a new name during the release of the game "Donkey Kong Jr." in 1982. Nintendo of America's warehouse landlord, Mario Segale, demanded that the company pay its overdue rent. The game's creator, Shigeru Miyamoto, named the character Mario as a humorous acknowledgement of Segale's demand, establishing the iconic name we know today.
3. How did Mario become the star of his own games?
Following the success of Donkey Kong, Nintendo introduced the game "Mario Bros." in 1983. This game marked the first appearance of Mario and his brother, Luigi, as the main protagonists. Mario's popularity continued to rise, leading to his own series of games, such as "Super Mario Bros.," released in 1985, which became a massive hit and solidified Mario as a gaming icon.
4. What about Donkey Kong?
Donkey Kong, the character that initially took the spotlight, did not fade away. Nintendo released a series of games featuring Donkey Kong as the main character, such as "Donkey Kong Country" in 1994, which was praised for its graphics and gameplay. Since then, Donkey Kong has become a staple in the gaming industry with various spin-off games and appearances.
While Donkey Kong made his debut before Mario in the eponymous arcade game, it was Mario who ultimately stole the show, becoming one of the most recognizable and influential characters in the history of video games. Both characters have left a lasting impact on the gaming industry, each carving out their own niche and fan base. Whether you are a fan of the heroic plumber or the mighty ape, one thing is for certain: the legacy of Donkey Kong and Mario will continue to be celebrated for generations to come.