Donkey Kong (Character) Timeline ( Real )

character_creation
July 9, 1981

Donkey Kong Debut

Donkey Kong makes his first appearance in the arcade game 'Donkey Kong', released by Nintendo.

game_release
July 1, 1982

Donkey Kong Jr. Release

The sequel to the original arcade game, 'Donkey Kong Jr.', is released, featuring Donkey Kong as a captured character that his son tries to rescue.

game_release
June 1983

Donkey Kong 3 Release

Nintendo releases 'Donkey Kong 3', the third installment featuring Donkey Kong in a different gameplay style.

game_release
November 21, 1994

Donkey Kong Country Debut

The character Donkey Kong stars in 'Donkey Kong Country' for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System, showcasing a new design and 3D rendered graphics.

character_design_change
1994

Donkey Kong's Design Redesign

The character design of Donkey Kong is updated for 'Donkey Kong Country' with a red necktie bearing his initials, created by Rare studios.

game_appearance
June 1996

Donkey Kong's Appearance in Mario Kart 64

Donkey Kong becomes a playable character in 'Mario Kart 64', expanding his role within the broader Mario franchise.

game_release
October 14, 2004

Donkey Kong Jungle Beat Released

Donkey Kong stars in 'Donkey Kong Jungle Beat' for the GameCube, notable for its unique controller based on bongo drums.

game_appearance
March 9, 2008

Appearance in Super Smash Bros. Brawl

Donkey Kong appears as a playable fighter in 'Super Smash Bros. Brawl', further cementing his role in Nintendo crossover titles.

game_release
November 21, 2010

Donkey Kong Country Returns

A new Donkey Kong Country game is released for the Wii, revitalizing the series with modern gameplay and graphics.

anniversary_event
July 9, 2021

Donkey Kong’s 40th Anniversary Celebration

Nintendo and fans celebrate 40 years of Donkey Kong since its original release, marking the character's enduring popularity.

Donkey Kong (Character) Timeline ( Fictional )

origin
Year 0 DK

Ancient Guardian Awakens

Donkey Kong awakens as the guardian of the jungle, assuming responsibility for protecting his home and the Banana Hoard from intruders.

discovery
Year 5 DK

Discovery of the Banana Hoard

Donkey Kong discovers the legendary Banana Hoard, a treasure of bananas he vows to guard against thieves to maintain peace in the jungle.

conflict
Year 10 DK

Conflict with King K. Rool

Donkey Kong first encounters King K. Rool, the Kremling king who attempts to steal the Banana Hoard, marking the beginning of their ongoing rivalry.

alliance
Year 12 DK

Formation of DK Crew

Donkey Kong forms his close group of friends and family, including Diddy Kong and Cranky Kong, to help protect their jungle home and treasures.

battle
Year 15 DK

Banana Hoard Heist

King K. Rool launches a major attempt to steal the Banana Hoard, resulting in a fierce battle where Donkey Kong and his allies defend their treasure successfully.

exploration
Year 20 DK

Exploration Beyond the Jungle

Donkey Kong ventures beyond the familiar jungle, exploring new territories that introduce new friends and challenges.

heroic_event
Year 25 DK

Saving the Island from Wrath of K. Rool

Donkey Kong leads a mission to protect the entire island from King K. Rool’s destructive plans, solidifying his role as island protector.

achievement
Year 27 DK

Winning the Jungle Games

Donkey Kong triumphs in the Jungle Games, showcasing his unique strength and agility among competitors from across the island.

legacy
Year 30 DK

Becoming a Legend

Stories of Donkey Kong’s bravery and strength become legend among the island inhabitants, inspiring the next generation of Kongs.