Release: 1988
HVC-JR
Genre: Platform
Developer: Nintendo Co., Ltd.
Publisher: Nintendo Co., Ltd.


A new twist on the classic
Donkey Kong Jr. (Silver box version) arrived on the Famicom in 1988, offering a fresh take on the original Donkey Kong gameplay. This time, players control Donkey Kong’s son, Junior, as he attempts to rescue his father from Mario, who has captured him. The game flips the traditional narrative by making Mario the antagonist, adding a layer of depth and excitement to the platforming genre.
Challenging yet accessible gameplay
As with its predecessor, Donkey Kong Jr. presents a series of platforming challenges, but this time the mechanics include new elements, such as climbing vines and using them to navigate levels. The gameplay is fast-paced and requires precision, especially in the more complex later stages. With its tight controls and clever level design, Donkey Kong Jr. remains an engaging and rewarding experience, appealing to both newcomers and those familiar with the arcade original.
Expanding the Donkey Kong universe
This Famicom version helped further establish the Donkey Kong franchise, introducing a beloved new character in Donkey Kong Jr. The game also laid the groundwork for future Donkey Kong sequels and spin-offs, ensuring that both Donkey Kong and his son would remain central figures in the Nintendo universe for years to come. Today, Donkey Kong Jr. continues to be remembered as an essential part of the early history of Nintendo’s platforming legacy.