Donkey Kong on NES: The 1st level, the barrels

Level 1 is the classic Donkey Kong level that all game enthusiasts know. In the original version, it's the 25m level. Right from the start of the level, Donkey Kong drops a barrel into the flames and a fire monster will appear, pressing you towards the top of the level. The level slopes gently up towards Donkey Kong, who throws barrels at you. Ladders help you climb but, make no mistake, they can also be used by barrels. Two hammers are present and allow you, for a fairly short time, to smash the barrels to a wild music beat. Since you cannot climb ladders with the hammer, it is more of a scoring tool than anything else. Watch out, the floor just below Donkey Kong down to the broken ladder is not safe because Donkey sometimes throws barrels in a Zig-Zag pattern downwards. These barrels won't roll and will go directly from one floor to another, shifting right then left.

Game A

The level in Game A is relatively simple, Donkey throws few barrels, move forward quietly and jump over the barrels. Always be careful when passing under a ladder because a barrel can take it. So wait until a barrel on the upper level has passed the ladder before taking it yourself.

Game B

In game B, the pace increases a bit. Well, it doesn't change much.

Game B - 2nd pass

The 2nd pass in Game B greatly accelerates the pace. You will quickly see 6 barrels coming at you. Don't hesitate to grab the hammer to feel secure and reach the base of the ladder. Be careful, however, when its effect stops. Furthermore, you are not invincible with the hammer, so always turn in the right direction because a barrel striking you in the back will still kill you. Don't take any risks, wait if necessary to take the ladders at the right moment and everything will be fine.

Go to level 2