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Game Info

Cover art of Donkey Kong Junior
Platform
Atari 7800
Genres
Platformer · Arcade
Player Perspective
Side view
Developers
ITDC (International Technology Development Corporation)
Publishers
Atari Corporation
Release date
November 1, 1988

Summary

The Atari 7800 version of Donkey Kong Jr. brings the arcade’s vine‑swinging platform action straight to the home console, preserving the original’s tight controls and bright, blocky graphics. Designed by Shigeru Miyamoto and Gunpei Yokoi, the game lets you guide the young Kong through four distinct stages, dodging Snapjaws, Nitpickers and roaming Sparks while climbing vines, chains or ropes and dropping fruit to clear obstacles. A bonus timer adds points for speed, and the infamous kill screen appears at level 22, keeping even seasoned players on their toes.

Critics praised the port’s faithful sound and visual fidelity, earning it the Best Videogame Audio‑Visual Effects award at the 5th Arkie Awards. Its competitive high‑score scene has endured, with the title featuring in early video‑game championships and pop‑culture tie‑ins, cementing DK Jr. as a nostalgic staple for retro enthusiasts.

Storyline

After the events of the original Donkey Kong, Mario captures Donkey Kong and locks him in a cage deep in a forest. Determined to rescue his father, Donkey Kong Jr. follows Mario as the plumber transports the captive Kong to his hideout by helicopter. Mario then takes the keys to Donkey Kong’s chains and scatters them around the building, setting a trap for the young ape. Several enemies confront Donkey Kong Jr., but he manages to evade them and reaches his father’s side.

In a dramatic moment, Jr. frees Donkey Kong by removing the chains, causing Mario to tumble to the ground. The reunited duo quickly make their escape, with Mario in hot pursuit. However, Donkey Kong’s powerful knock‑back sends Mario fleeing, ending the chase. The game, known as Donkey Kong Junior, concludes with the father‑son pair heading off together.

Edited by Maya Carter

Game Screenshots

  • Screenshot 1 of Donkey Kong Junior
  • Screenshot 2 of Donkey Kong Junior
  • Screenshot 3 of Donkey Kong Junior

Multiplayer

Game modes
Single