Who is the girl you save in Donkey Kong?

Who is the Girl You Save in Donkey Kong?

The iconic arcade game Donkey Kong, released in 1981, has been a beloved classic for decades. The game’s storyline is simple yet engaging: a carpenter named Jumpman (later renamed Mario) must rescue a damsel in distress named Pauline from the clutches of the titular Donkey Kong. But who is this Pauline, and what’s her significance in the world of Mario?

The Original Damsel in Distress

In the original Donkey Kong game, Pauline is the girlfriend of Jumpman, who is kidnapped by Donkey Kong. Players control Jumpman as he navigates four screens of obstacles to rescue Pauline from the clutches of the ape. Pauline’s character design is relatively simple, with a few distinct features that set her apart from other female characters in the game.

Evolution of Pauline’s Character

Over the years, Pauline’s character has undergone significant changes. In the 1983 animated TV series "Saturday Supercade," Pauline is depicted as a more fleshed-out character with her own personality and motivations. In the 1994 Game Boy game "Donkey Kong," Pauline is renamed and becomes a more prominent character in the game’s storyline.

Pauline’s Role in the Mario Universe

Pauline’s role in the Mario universe extends beyond her initial appearance in Donkey Kong. In the 1993 live-action film "Super Mario Bros.," Pauline is portrayed by actress Samantha Mathis as a love interest for Luigi. In more recent games, such as "New Super Mario Bros. U" and "Super Mario Odyssey," Pauline makes cameo appearances as a mayor or a citizen of the Mushroom Kingdom.

The Significance of Pauline

So why is Pauline significant in the world of Mario? For one, she represents the classic "damsel in distress" trope, which has been a staple of video games and adventure stories for decades. Pauline’s character also serves as a foil to the more proactive and independent Princess Peach, who is often the main heroine of Mario games.

Comparison to Other Mario Characters

Here’s a comparison of Pauline to other female characters in the Mario universe:

Conclusion

In conclusion, Pauline is the girl you save in Donkey Kong, a classic arcade game that has been a beloved part of gaming culture for decades. Her character has undergone significant changes over the years, but her role as a damsel in distress remains an important part of the Mario universe. Whether you’re a fan of classic arcade games or the more modern Mario titles, Pauline’s significance in the world of Mario is undeniable.