Nintendo releases the original Donkey Kong arcade game, marking the debut of the Donkey Kong franchise and the first appearance of Mario (then known as Jumpman).
Nintendo releases Donkey Kong Jr., the sequel to the original arcade game and the first to feature Donkey Kong as a character to be rescued.
Nintendo releases Donkey Kong 3, the third arcade installment in the Donkey Kong series.
Rare and Nintendo release Donkey Kong Country for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System, revitalizing the franchise with advanced graphics and gameplay.
Rare and Nintendo release Donkey Kong 64 for the Nintendo 64, expanding the franchise into 3D platforming.
Donkey Kong becomes a playable character in the original Super Smash Bros. game, expanding the character’s presence in crossover fighting games.
Nintendo releases Donkey Kong Country Returns for the Wii, marking a successful reboot of the classic platformer series.
Donkey Kong Island is formed, establishing the primary home and habitat for the Kong family.
Cranky Kong, the elder and original Donkey Kong, is born. He will later become the wise elder and advisor to the younger Kongs.
Donkey Kong, the main hero of the series, is born. He inherits the leadership of the Kong family and becomes protector of the island.
King K. Rool, the main antagonist and leader of the Kremlings, rises to power and begins raiding Donkey Kong Island.
Donkey Kong successfully defends his home island from King K. Rool and his Kremlings, first major victory against the antagonist.
Diddy Kong, Donkey Kong's nephew and sidekick, begins accompanying Donkey Kong on adventures throughout the island and beyond.
Cranky Kong passes on leadership to Donkey Kong and takes on the role of elder advisor and inventor, marking a generational shift within the Kong family.
Donkey Kong and allies fight enemies threatening the balance and peace of the island, including new and returning villains.
