Donkey Kong - Original Edition (USA) (Virtual Console)

**Donkey Kong - Original Edition** is a classic arcade platformer that emphasizes jumping and environmental puzzle-solving. In the game, players control the character Mario (originally known as Jumpman) with the mission to rescue his girlfriend Pauline from the giant ape Donkey Kong, who has kidnapped her and taken her to the top of a construction site. The game features four distinct screens (or levels) that repeat with increasing difficulty after completion.

Each screen introduces a unique challenge. The first screen, "Construction Site" or "Barrels," requires Mario to climb ladders and jump over barrels thrown by Donkey Kong. Players must time their jumps precisely to avoid being hit or falling. Other hazards like fireballs and springs also appear as obstacles.

The second screen is often "The Factory" or "Pies," where Mario must navigate conveyor belts and dodge rolling pies. The third screen, "Elevators," focuses on using elevators and springs to move up and down multiple platforms. Finally, the fourth screen, "Rivets," requires Mario to remove all the rivets from the structure to make Donkey Kong's platform collapse, causing him to fall and Pauline to be rescued.

Mario can pick up a hammer to temporarily destroy barrels and other enemies, but this power-up only lasts for a short duration. Players earn points by jumping over obstacles, collecting items (like umbrellas, hats, and purses) that Pauline drops, and destroying enemies with the hammer. The primary goal is to achieve the highest possible score while progressing through increasingly difficult levels. The game demands quick reflexes and careful planning of movements.