Why is Donkey Kong not a Donkey but a Gorilla?
Donkey Kong, the iconic video game character, has been a subject of curiosity for many fans and gamers. The character’s name, which combines "donkey" with "Kong," raises questions about its true identity. Is Donkey Kong a donkey or a gorilla? The answer lies in the character’s creation and the intentions of its creator, Shigeru Miyamoto.
Concept and Creation
When designing Donkey Kong, Miyamoto wanted to create a character that was both cute and intimidating. He experimented with different names, trying to find the perfect combination that would convey the character’s personality. Miyamoto has revealed that he used "donkey" to convey "stubborn" in English, while "Kong" meant "large ape". The name Donkey Kong was intended to mean "stubborn ape" to the American audience.
The Birth of a Gorilla
The name Donkey Kong may not be as straightforward as it seems. In Japanese, the word "kong" () is often used to refer to large primates, including gorillas. Miyamoto has confirmed that he considered Donkey Kong to be a gorilla, rather than a donkey. This is evident in the character’s design, which features a large, muscular body and a strong jawline, characteristic of gorillas.
Characteristics of Donkey Kong
Donkey Kong’s characteristics are more in line with those of a gorilla than a donkey. He is strong, agile, and powerful, with a fierce determination to rescue his love, Pauline. His appearance, with his furry body and imposing stature, is also reminiscent of a gorilla. In contrast, donkeys are known for their smaller size and more docile nature.
Why the Name Donkey Kong?
So, why did Miyamoto choose the name Donkey Kong if the character is not actually a donkey? The answer lies in the cultural context and the target audience. In the 1980s, when Donkey Kong was first released, the term "donkey" was often used in American English to describe something stubborn or obstinate. Miyamoto likely chose the name Donkey Kong to convey the character’s stubborn and determined personality.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Donkey Kong is not a donkey but a gorilla. The character’s name and design are intentionally misleading, meant to create a sense of surprise and curiosity. Miyamoto’s intention was to create a character that was both cute and intimidating, with a name that would capture the essence of its personality. The name Donkey Kong has become iconic in the world of video games, and its enduring popularity is a testament to the character’s enduring appeal.
Additional Fun Facts
- Did you know that Donkey Kong was originally called "Jumpman" in Japan? The name was later changed to Donkey Kong for international releases.
- Donkey Kong’s love interest, Pauline, was introduced in the 1981 arcade game Donkey Kong.
- Donkey Kong has appeared in numerous games, including platformers, puzzle games, and racing games.
Key Takeaways
- Donkey Kong is not a donkey but a gorilla.
- The character’s name and design are intentionally misleading.
- Miyamoto chose the name Donkey Kong to convey the character’s stubborn and determined personality.
- The name Donkey Kong has become iconic in the world of video games.
Sources
- Miyamoto, S. (2016). The making of Donkey Kong. Retrieved from https://www.gamasutra.com/view/news/28463/The_making_of_Donkey_Kong.php
- Nintendo. (n.d.). Donkey Kong. Retrieved from https://www.nintendo.com/games/detail/donkey-kong
- Wikipedia. (n.d.). Donkey Kong. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Donkey_Kong