Donkey Kong Franchise
The Donkey Kong franchise has a long and storied history, dating back to the classic arcade games of the 1980s. While Donkey Kong himself is undoubtedly the star of the show, there’s one character who’s been there since the very beginning – Cranky Kong.
Classic Donkey Kong Games
Cranky Kong, known as the “original” Donkey Kong in the early games, first appeared as the main antagonist in the classic Donkey Kong arcade titles. Back then, he was a feisty ape who kidnapped Pauline and battled against Mario (then known as “Jumpman”) in a construction site setting.
In those early days, Cranky Kong displayed a mischievous and antagonistic personality, tossing barrels and other obstacles at Mario in an attempt to prevent him from rescuing Pauline. However, despite his gruff demeanor, there was a certain charm to Cranky Kong’s antics that made him a memorable villain.
Modern Donkey Kong Games
As the Donkey Kong franchise evolved over the years, Cranky Kong’s role and characterization underwent a significant transformation. In the Donkey Kong Country games, Cranky is portrayed as the elderly, curmudgeonly grandfather of the current Donkey Kong – a far cry from his previous incarnation as the main antagonist.
In this new depiction, Cranky Kong is known for his constant complaining, sarcastic remarks, and overall grumpy attitude. Despite his cantankerous nature, however, he often proves to be a helpful, if reluctant, sage, providing advice and information to the younger Kongs on their adventures.
Cranky Kong Character
Personality and Backstory
Cranky Kong’s personality can be summed up in one word: ornery. He’s a crotchety, easily irritated old ape who has a knack for breaking the fourth wall and making snarky comments about the very games he appears in.
Yet, beneath his gruff exterior, Cranky Kong has a heart of gold. He may grumble and groan, but when push comes to shove, he’ll lend a helping hand (or cane) to the younger Kongs, whether it’s offering advice, selling them helpful items, or even joining the fight against their enemies.
Cranky Kong’s backstory is a bit murky, but it’s generally accepted that he is the original Donkey Kong from the classic arcade games. Over the years, he’s retired the “Donkey Kong” title, passing it down to his grandson – the modern Donkey Kong we know and love. As for his relationship to the current Donkey Kong, it’s been depicted in various ways, ranging from grandfather to father, but the familial bond is undeniable.
Appearances in the Donkey Kong Series
Cranky Kong’s first major appearance was in the original Donkey Kong Country, where he served as a non-playable character who offered the Kongs advice and commentary from his rundown shack. In subsequent sequels, his role expanded, with him setting up a Monkey Museum on Crocodile Isle and even becoming a playable character in Donkey Konga 3.
One of Cranky Kong’s most memorable moments came in Donkey Kong Country 3: Dixie Kong’s Double Trouble!, where he was shown doing some impressive water-skiing tricks in the post-game cutscene. This showcased a surprising athletic ability that defied his elderly, curmudgeonly persona.
More recently, Cranky Kong has taken on a more active role in the Donkey Kong games, becoming a playable partner character in Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze. In this game, he uses his trusty cane to bounce on enemies and platforms, demonstrating that despite his advanced age, he’s still got some spunk left in him.
Super Mario Franchise Connections
Cameos in Super Mario Games
While Cranky Kong is primarily associated with the Donkey Kong franchise, he’s made a few notable cameos in the Super Mario series as well. His silhouette can be seen pacing back and forth in his cabin in the background of the Jungle Japes stage in the Super Smash Bros. series, and he’s even referenced in Solid Snake’s codec conversations about Donkey Kong in Super Smash Bros. Brawl.
Additionally, in Super Mario Odyssey, one of the streets in New Donk City is named “Cranky Avenue,” further cementing his place within the broader Nintendo universe.
Similarities to Mario Characters
Cranky Kong’s gruff, sarcastic personality and tendency to break the fourth wall share some similarities with other classic Nintendo characters, such as Mario’s longtime rival, Wario. Both Cranky and Wario are known for their cantankerous attitudes and lack of patience, making them entertaining foils to the more heroic protagonists.
In some ways, Cranky Kong also bears resemblance to Bowser, the iconic antagonist of the Super Mario series. Like Bowser, Cranky is often portrayed as the stubborn, grudge-holding elder of his respective clan, constantly butting heads with the younger generation. This dynamic adds a layer of depth to both characters, hinting at the complex familial relationships that underpin their rivalries.
Avian-Related Concepts
Feathery Foes
While Cranky Kong may not have any direct avian foes, the Donkey Kong franchise is rife with bird-like enemies that pose a challenge to our simian heroes. Take, for example, the Nitpickers from Donkey Kong Jr. – these pesky little birds swoop down, trying to peck away at Donkey Kong Jr. as he attempts to rescue his father.
Then there are the Zinger enemies, a species of bee-like creatures that have appeared in multiple Donkey Kong games. Though not technically birds, their aerial prowess and stinger-like attacks make them a formidable avian-adjacent threat. Skilled Donkey Kong players will need to time their jumps and attacks carefully to avoid these buzzing baddies.
Avian Adversaries
One of the most prominent avian antagonists in the Donkey Kong universe is Squawks the Parrot. This feathered friend-turned-foe has appeared in several games, often serving as a guide or informant before revealing his true colors and turning against the Kongs.
In Donkey Kong Country 2, Squawks is found imprisoned in a cage, only to be freed and become a temporary ally. However, in Donkey Kong: Jungle Climber, he takes on a more sinister role, assisting the villainous King K. Rool in his quest to steal the Crystal Bananas.
Cranky Kong’s relationship with Squawks is a particularly interesting one, as the old ape seems to have a begrudging respect for the parrot’s cunning and resourcefulness – even if he’s on the wrong side. This dynamic adds an extra layer of complexity to the Donkey Kong universe, where even the supporting characters can’t always be trusted.
Conclusion
Cranky Kong may be the grumpiest member of the Kong clan, but his importance to the Donkey Kong franchise cannot be overstated. As the patriarch of the family and the original Donkey Kong, Cranky’s influence and legacy can be felt throughout the series, from his snarky commentary to his surprising moments of heroism.
For avian enthusiasts and Donkey Kong fans alike, Cranky Kong’s story is a testament to the depth and richness of Nintendo’s beloved simian universe. Whether he’s battling against avian adversaries, doling out advice to the younger Kongs, or simply complaining about the state of modern video games, Cranky Kong remains a one-of-a-kind character that continues to captivate audiences of all ages.
So the next time you find yourself exploring the lush jungles of Donkey Kong Island, be sure to keep an eye out for Cranky Kong and his trusty cane. You never know when he might just surprise you with a hidden gem of wisdom – or a well-timed barrel to the head.
