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Mario made his first appearance in the video game Donkey Kong, released in 1981. In this classic arcade game, he is introduced as the main protagonist tasked with rescuing a damsel in distress named Pauline from the clutches of the antagonist, Donkey Kong. This game marks the beginning of Mario's journey as a beloved character in the gaming world, showcasing his distinct characteristics and setting the foundation for future adventures. The significance of Mario's debut in Donkey Kong is rooted in its innovative gameplay and the introduction of a character who would go on to become an iconic figure in the industry.

Other options represent games that came much later in Mario's franchise. Super Mario Bros. was released in 1985 and is known for solidifying Mario's popularity on home consoles. Mario Kart debuted in 1992, introducing a new genre of racing games featuring Mario characters. Mario Party, which was released in 1998, focused on multiplayer party games but did not mark the character's initial appearance.