# Donkey Kong (NES) - The Classic 1983 Platformer Port *Donkey Kong* for the NES, released on July 15, 1983, by Nintendo, is a port of the 1981 arcade classic designed by Shigeru Miyamoto. It marks the debut of Jumpman (later Mario) as he climbs girders and ladders to save Pauline from the gorilla Donkey Kong, who throws barrels and hazards. Featuring three stages (25m, 75m, 100m), it omits the arcade’s 50m (pie factory) due to hardware limitations. With 8-bit visuals, a memorable soundtrack by Yukio Kaneoka, and simple controls (D-pad for movement, one button to jump), it was a launch title for the Famicom and a major NES hit, selling millions. Re-released on Virtual Console (Wii, 3DS, Wii U), Nintendo Switch Online (2018), and Game Boy Advance (*Classic NES Series*, 2004). ## Why Play Donkey Kong (NES)? *Donkey Kong* (NES) delivers tight platforming across three looping stages: 25m (barrels), 75m (elevators), and 100m (rivets). Jumpman dodges barrels, fireballs, and springs while grabbing items like Pauline’s parasol for bonus points. Each stage cycles with increasing difficulty, encouraging high-score chases. Gameplay lasts 10-20 minutes per loop, with no continues, making skill crucial. Its iconic design (Mario’s first game), responsive controls, and nostalgic charm make it a must-play for retro fans, though the missing 50m stage and lack of multiplayer may feel limited compared to the arcade. X posts highlight its speedrunning popularity and historical role in launching Mario. ## Key Features - Play as Jumpman (Mario) across 3 stages (25m, 75m, 100m) - Dodge barrels, fireballs, and springs; use hammers to smash enemies - Collect items (parasols, hats) for bonus points; remove rivets to defeat Donkey Kong - High-score system with looping difficulty; no save or continue system - Fight Donkey Kong as the recurring boss each loop - Experience authentic NES gameplay on our retro ROM platform, Switch Online, or Virtual Console ## Key Differences: NES vs. Arcade - **Stages**: NES has 3 stages (25m, 75m, 100m), omitting arcade’s 50m (pie factory) due to cartridge size limits. - **Graphics/Sound**: NES uses simplified 8-bit sprites and sound vs. arcade’s sharper visuals; retains core aesthetic. - **Gameplay**: Identical mechanics (jump, climb, hammer); NES lacks arcade’s full cutscenes (e.g., Donkey Kong’s fall). - **Difficulty**: NES is slightly easier due to fewer stages; both lack continues, but arcade has smoother animations. - **Regional Notes**: No *Probotector*-style changes in Europe; identical across regions except Famicom’s earlier release. ## Play Donkey Kong (NES) Online Climb today! Play *Donkey Kong* (NES) instantly on our website, Classic Joy Games, with no downloads, using NES emulators. Alternatively, enjoy it on Nintendo Switch Online, Virtual Console (Wii, 3DS, Wii U), GBA (*Classic NES Series*), or sites like RetroGames.cc or EmulatorGames.net. Physical NES copies cost $20-$60 (cart only) or $80-$150 (CIB) on eBay/Amazon. Ideal for retro platformer fans! Note: Use Mesen or Nestopia for emulation; GBA or Switch Online versions offer brighter visuals. For high scores, master hammer timing in 25m (barrels) and precise jumps in 75m (elevators). Join players worldwide on Classic Joy Games. Start your climb now and rescue Pauline to forge Jumpman’s legacy!