Donkey Kong

A classic arcade port for the Commodore

Released in 1986 for the Commodore 64/128, Donkey Kong made the leap from arcade cabinets to home computers, allowing players to experience Nintendo’s iconic platformer on their own machines. Developed by Nintendo and published by Ocean Software, this version of Donkey Kong retained much of the original arcade game’s charm while being adapted to the Commodore’s hardware. Players controlled Mario as he scaled platforms, avoided barrels, and worked to rescue Pauline from the clutches of the mischievous Donkey Kong.

A faithful, yet simplified port

The gameplay in the Commodore 64/128 version closely followed the original arcade, with players navigating the various levels, each filled with obstacles and enemies. Although the graphics and sound were scaled back compared to the arcade version, the classic levels like the construction site and the elevator stage still provided a thrilling challenge. The key mechanics of dodging barrels, jumping over hazards, and climbing ladders were faithfully recreated, making it a solid and enjoyable port for home players.

Retro appeal and legacy

The 1986 release of Donkey Kong on the Commodore 64/128 brought one of the most famous arcade games into the homes of computer users, expanding its reach beyond the arcade scene. The cassette packaging, typical for the time, made it a collectible item for retro gaming enthusiasts. Though the Commodore version had technical limitations, it was a significant release that brought the fast-paced, platforming action of Donkey Kong to the home computer scene, securing its place in video game history.

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