Mario
The player-controlled construction worker, known as Jumpman in the original arcade release. He climbs platforms and ladders and jumps over hazards.
Documented for this version
Which controls does this version use?
Actions
Joystick LeftJoystick Right | Move Mario horizontally. |
|---|---|
Joystick Up | Climb an available ladder. |
Joystick Down | Descend an available ladder. |
Fire Button | Jump. |
Control notes
Controls use the Atari 2600 joystick and fire button.
Exact movement behavior can vary slightly with stage position.
How it plays
How does Donkey Kong play?
Each stage is a fixed platforming challenge. Mario moves across girders, climbs ladders, avoids hazards, and jumps over obstacles while trying to reach Pauline or complete the current objective.
The game is built around repeated attempts rather than free exploration. Players advance through a limited sequence of arcade-inspired screens, with increasing pressure from enemy movement and timing demands. A collision or fall costs a life, and the score rewards progress and collected bonus items.
Plan your run
What is the best way to play Donkey Kong?
Study the movement pattern of each hazard before committing to a jump. Short, deliberate movements are safer than rushing across narrow girders.
Use ladders selectively and keep an escape route in mind. Jumping over a hazard is often safer than trying to pass it at the edge of a platform, but mistimed jumps can be more dangerous than waiting.
Meet the cast
Who are the key characters?
Donkey Kong
The giant ape who occupies the upper part of each stage and attacks Mario by creating or releasing obstacles.
Pauline
The damsel Mario must rescue at the end of the stage sequence.
Before you begin
What should you know before playing?
- 1
Watch the timing of rolling hazards before climbing.
- 2
Avoid standing directly beneath hazards that can fall from above.
- 3
Prioritize survival over bonus items when the route is crowded.
Community discussion
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