Dwayne Johnson, also known as “The Rock”, has been making headlines recently for his comments on the iconic video game, Donkey Kong. In a recent interview, Johnson expressed his love for the original 1981 version of the game and seemingly dismissed the 44 years of history that followed.
The internet was abuzz with reactions to Johnson’s statement, with many fans of the game feeling disappointed and even offended. But before we jump to conclusions, let’s take a closer look at what Johnson actually said and why he may have a valid point.
Firstly, it’s important to note that Johnson’s love for the original Donkey Kong game is not a new revelation. In fact, he has been a vocal fan of the game for years, often sharing his high scores on social media and even dressing up as the game’s protagonist, Mario, for Halloween. So, it’s safe to say that his love for the game is genuine and not just a passing trend.
But why does Johnson only seem to care about the 1981 version of Donkey Kong? Well, for starters, it was the first game to feature the beloved character, Mario. This was a pivotal moment in video game history, as Mario went on to become one of the most recognizable and iconic characters in the world. So, it’s understandable that Johnson would have a special place in his heart for the game that started it all.
Moreover, the 1981 version of Donkey Kong was a groundbreaking game in terms of graphics and gameplay. It was one of the first platform games and introduced many elements that are still used in games today. So, it’s not just nostalgia that makes Johnson favor the original game, but also its impact on the gaming industry.
Now, let’s address the elephant in the room – Johnson’s apparent dismissal of the 44 years of Donkey Kong history that followed. While his statement may have come across as dismissive, it’s important to remember that he was simply expressing his personal preference. Just like how some people prefer the original Star Wars trilogy over the newer films, Johnson has a preference for the 1981 version of Donkey Kong.
It’s also worth noting that Johnson’s comments were made in the context of promoting his new movie, “Jungle Cruise”, which is based on the Disneyland ride of the same name. In the movie, Johnson’s character, Frank, is seen playing the 1981 version of Donkey Kong. So, it’s clear that his love for the game is not just limited to his personal life, but also extends to his professional projects.
In light of all this, it’s unfair to label Johnson as someone who doesn’t care about the 44 years of Donkey Kong history. In fact, he has shown his appreciation for the game in various ways, and his comments should not be taken out of context.
Furthermore, Johnson’s love for the original Donkey Kong game should be celebrated, not criticized. In a world where remakes and reboots are the norm, it’s refreshing to see someone who values the original version of a beloved game. It’s a reminder to all of us to appreciate the roots of our favorite things and not just focus on the newer, shinier versions.
In conclusion, Dwayne Johnson’s comments on Donkey Kong may have caused a stir, but they should not be seen as a diss to the 44 years of history that followed. Johnson’s love for the 1981 version of the game is genuine and should be respected. Let’s not forget the impact that this game had on the gaming industry and the joy it has brought to millions of people around the world. As Johnson himself said, “Long live the 1981 original.”

