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The Legacy of Legendary Video Games: Mario, Donkey Kong, and Zelda

Gil Turner

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Published in Shigeru Miyamoto: Super Mario Bros Donkey Kong The Legend Of Zelda (Influential Video Game Designers)

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The world of video games has evolved into an expansive and diverse landscape, offering players an endless array of experiences and adventures. Among the countless titles that have graced the gaming industry, a select few have achieved iconic status, leaving an enduring mark on the hearts and minds of gamers worldwide. Three such games, Super Mario Bros., Donkey Kong, and The Legend of Zelda, stand as towering figures in the annals of gaming history, inspiring generations of developers and players alike.

Super Mario Bros.: The Plumber Who Conquered the World

Released for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) in 1985, Super Mario Bros. introduced the world to the instantly recognizable character of Mario, a portly plumber with an unyielding determination to rescue Princess Peach from the clutches of the evil Bowser. With its simple yet addictive gameplay, colorful graphics, and catchy music, Super Mario Bros. quickly became a global phenomenon, selling over 40 million copies worldwide.

Shigeru Miyamoto: Super Mario Bros., Donkey Kong, The Legend of Zelda (Influential Video Game Designers)

by Philippe Chantepie

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
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The game's success can be attributed to its intuitive controls, allowing players to easily navigate Mario through a series of increasingly challenging levels. The inclusion of power-ups, such as the Super Mushroom and Fire Flower, added an element of strategy and excitement to the gameplay. Moreover, the game's vibrant visuals and memorable characters created an immersive and engaging experience that captivated players of all ages.

Donkey Kong: The Birth of an Icon

Preceding Super Mario Bros. by a year, Donkey Kong debuted in arcades in 1981. The game introduced the world to Mario, then known as Jumpman, as he attempts to rescue Pauline, the damsel in distress, from the clutches of Donkey Kong. With its groundbreaking graphics and innovative gameplay, Donkey Kong became an instant hit, revolutionizing the arcade experience.

Donkey Kong's gameplay is characterized by its simple yet effective mechanics. Players control Mario as he scales construction beams and navigates obstacles to reach Pauline. Along the way, they must avoid falling barrels and other hazards thrown by Donkey Kong. The game's fast-paced action and engaging platforming elements created a thrilling and addictive experience that kept players coming back for more.

The Legend of Zelda: A Sword-Wielding Adventure

In 1986, Nintendo released The Legend of Zelda, an open-world action-adventure game that redefined the genre. Players take control of Link, a young hero destined to save the kingdom of Hyrule from the evil sorcerer Ganon. The game introduced a vast and explorable world, featuring hidden dungeons, treacherous enemies, and challenging puzzles.

The Legend of Zelda's innovative gameplay allowed players to explore Hyrule at their own pace, discovering secrets and solving puzzles as they progressed. The game's engaging combat system, featuring swordplay and magic spells, added an element of thrill and excitement to the exploration experience. The game's memorable characters, captivating storyline, and stunning graphics created an immersive and unforgettable adventure that captivated players worldwide.

The Legacy: A Trio of Innovation and Inspiration

Super Mario Bros., Donkey Kong, and The Legend of Zelda have not only shaped the history of video games but have also left an enduring legacy in popular culture. These games introduced iconic characters, established beloved franchises, and raised the bar for what was possible in the world of video games.

Their innovative gameplay, captivating graphics, and memorable characters have inspired countless developers and designers, leading to the creation of a vast and diverse library of video games. The legacy of these games can be seen in modern titles, where elements of Mario, Donkey Kong, and Zelda can be found in games of all genres.

Super Mario Bros., Donkey Kong, and The Legend of Zelda stand as towering figures in the history of video games. These legendary titles have not only captured the hearts and minds of generations of gamers but have also redefined the medium and shaped the future of gaming. Their innovative gameplay, iconic characters, and captivating worlds have left an enduring legacy that will continue to inspire and entertain players for years to come.

Shigeru Miyamoto: Super Mario Bros., Donkey Kong, The Legend of Zelda (Influential Video Game Designers)

by Philippe Chantepie

4.4 out of 5