Donkey Kong Jr.
The playable young ape who climbs through dangerous stages to rescue his imprisoned father.
Documented for this version
Which controls does this version use?
Actions
Joystick | Move left or right and climb vines or chains |
|---|---|
Jump Button | Jump over hazards |
Control notes
The exact physical button label can vary between arcade cabinets.
Controls describe the original arcade version.
How it plays
How does Donkey Kong Jr. play?
Donkey Kong Jr. is played from a side-view perspective across four fixed arcade stages. The objective is to reach and unlock the cages holding Donkey Kong while avoiding enemies, falling hazards, and moving obstacles.
The joystick moves Jr. horizontally and lets him climb vines and chains; the jump button is used to clear hazards. Players must collect keys, choose safe climbing routes, and time movements around Snapjaws, birds, sparks, and other stage-specific threats. After the fourth stage, the sequence repeats at higher difficulty.
Plan your run
What is the best way to play Donkey Kong Jr.?
Learn the layout of each of the four stages before attempting fast routes. Climb on two vines when possible, since this is generally faster than using one, but change direction carefully near enemies.
Collect keys only when the route is safe, and prioritize timing over speed. Watch enemy patterns rather than reacting at the last moment, and use jumps to clear hazards instead of trying to squeeze past them.
Meet the cast
Who are the key characters?
Mario
The antagonist who captured Donkey Kong and places obstacles throughout the rescue stages.
Donkey Kong
Donkey Kong Jr.’s father, held in a cage at the end of each stage.
Before you begin
What should you know before playing?
- 1
Use two vines to climb faster when the surrounding hazards allow it.
- 2
On bonus-style fruit sections, clear threats before collecting risky fruit.
- 3
Treat the fourth stage as the final rescue stage, then expect the loop to restart at greater difficulty.
Community discussion
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