Shigeru Miyamoto, Donkey Kong's creator

Donkey Kong is a character created by Shigeru Miyamoto (pictured) for the Japanese video game company Nintendo. He stars in the Donkey Kong franchise while also appearing in the Mario franchise. Donkey Kong is a large, powerful gorilla who leads the Kong family of simians. Stubborn and buffoonish, he attacks using barrels. Donkey Kong debuted as the antagonist in Donkey Kong (1981), characterized as Mario's rebellious pet. Since Donkey Kong Country (1994), he has appeared as a player character protecting his stash of bananas. Donkey Kong has also appeared in animation, comics, children's books, theme park attractions, and merchandise such as Lego toys. Journalists regard Donkey Kong as one of the greatest video game characters. The Donkey Kong franchise was Nintendo's first major international success and remains one of its bestselling franchises. Donkey Kong has been the subject of analysis regarding his gender role and his transition from villain to hero. (Full article...)

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