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#REDIRECT [[List of Donkey Kong characters#King K. Rool]]
{{Short description|Video game character}}

{{Infobox character
{{Redirect category shell|
| name = King K. Rool
{{R to list entry}}
| image = King K. Rool Smash Ultimate.png<!-- Use artwork from the character's main series. Avoid spin-offs! -->
{{R from fictional character|Donkey Kong}}
| caption = King K. Rool in ''[[Super Smash Bros. Ultimate]]''
{{R with Wikidata|Q3206515}}
| series = [[Donkey Kong]]
| first = ''[[Donkey Kong Country]]'' (1994)
| creator = [[Gregg Mayles]]
| designer = [[Steve Mayles]]<br>Mark Stevenson (scientist)<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?t=1843&v=1TDcFCu4rJs&feature=youtu.be Mark Stevenson talking about Baron K. Roolenstein]</ref>
| voice = {{unbulleted list
|Chris Sutherland (1994–1996, 1999–2005)
|Toshihide Tsuchiya (2007–2008)
|[[Benedict Campbell]] (1997–2000)
|[[Jūrōta Kosugi]] (1997–2000)
}}
}}
| franchise = ''[[Donkey Kong]]''
| species = Kremling
| origin = Crocodile Isle<ref>[https://archive.org/details/NintendoPower1988-2004/Nintendo%20Power%20Issue%20076%20%28September%201995%29/page/n25/mode/2up ''Nintendo Power'', vol. 76, September, 1995, p. 26] - "'''''CAPTURED:''' The home island of K. Rool holds creatures that bite and sting and crush and claw - rats on the shipwrecks, beed in the hives, porcupines in the woods, pufferfish in the sea''".</ref><ref>'''Cranky Kong''': "''Well done, Diddy, m'boy! Who'd have known you'd be able to rescue that lazy grandson of mine and dump K. Rool in his own filthy island?''" - ''Donkey Kong Country 2 (GBA)''</ref>
}}
{{nihongo|'''King K. Rool'''|キングクルール|Kingu Kurūru|lead=yes}} is a [[List of fictional crocodiles and alligators|fictional]] [[anthropomorphism|anthropomorphic]] [[crocodile]] and the main [[antagonist]] in Nintendo's ''[[Donkey Kong]]'' video game franchise, as well as the [[archnemesis]] of [[Donkey Kong (character)|Donkey Kong]] and [[Diddy Kong]]. K. Rool is the villainous leader of a group of [[crocodilian]] raiders known as the [[List of Donkey Kong characters#Kremlings|Kremlings]], who have crossed paths with the [[List of Donkey Kong characters#Kong Family|Kongs]] on many occasions. First appearing in the [[1994 in video games|1994]] video game ''[[Donkey Kong Country]]'' for the [[Super Nintendo Entertainment System]], he has been described as being "to Donkey Kong what [[Bowser]] is to [[Mario]]".<ref>{{cite video game|title=[[Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U]]|developer=[[Namco Bandai]]|publisher=[[Nintendo]]|date=November 28, 2015|platform=[[Wii U]]|version=1.0|level=Trophy description}}</ref> He is depicted as unstable, adopting different personae and titles and utilizing a variety of weapons to his advantage. K. Rool resembles an overweight [[Crocodilia|crocodile]] with an infected, bulging eye. The name "K. Rool" is a play on the word "cruel", a reference to his malevolent nature. He also appeared as a playable character in ''[[Super Smash Bros.]]'' series. In addition to video games, K. Rool has appeared in the [[manga]] adaption of ''Donkey Kong Country'', the ''[[Donkey Kong Country (TV series)|Donkey Kong Country]]'' animated series, comics and several pieces of [[Nintendo]] merchandise.

In the ''[[List of Donkey Kong video games|Donkey Kong Country]]'' trilogy, its [[Game Boy Advance]] ports and ''[[Donkey Kong 64]]'', K. Rool's voice was provided by former [[Rare (company)|Rare]] developer Chris Sutherland.<ref name="DKC SNES voices">{{Cite web|title=David Wise on Twitter: "That would be the Multi-talented Chris Sutherland"|url=https://twitter.com/David_Wise/status/1083450138608193536|access-date=May 28, 2021|publisher=Twitter}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Chris-Sutherland/|title=Chris Sutherland|publisher=Behind The Voice Actors|access-date=November 3, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0233601/fullcredits|title=Donkey Kong 64 (Video Game 1999)|website=IMDb|language=en|access-date=2019-12-26}}</ref> K. Rool was voiced by Japanese voice actor Toshihide Tsuchiya, who also provides the voice of Funky Kong.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Toshihide-Tsuchiya/|title=Toshihide Tsuchiya|publisher=Behind The Voice Actors|access-date=November 3, 2015}}</ref>

==Characteristics ==
[[File:Krudd Prototype.png|thumb|left|Two prototype Kremlings; Krudd is an early version of King K. Rool.<ref>{{cite web|author=Craddock, Ryan|url=http://www.nintendolife.com/news/2018/08/donkey_kong_country_designer_shows_off_early_king_k_rool_and_kremling_art_concepts|title=Donkey Kong Country Designer Shows Off Early King K. Rool And Kremling Art Concepts|publisher=[[NintendoLife]]|date=August 13, 2018|access-date=August 15, 2018}}</ref>]]

In his debut appearance, King K. Rool is depicted as a large obese crocodile with a red cape, golden wristbands, a golden belly plate, large crown and a large [[Conjunctivitis|bloodshot]] eye. He was designed by Steve Mayles, an artist who worked at [[Rare (company)|Rare]] and brother of ''[[Donkey Kong Country]]'' designer [[Gregg Mayles]]. In later appearances, K. Rool's attire changes depending on which persona he is masquerading as. His aliases include {{nihongo|'''Kaptain K. Rool'''|キャプテンクルール|Kyaputen Kurūru|lead=yes|group=lower-alpha}}, '''Baron K. Roolenstein''' and '''King''' "'''Krusha'''" '''K. Rool'''. K. Rool has also been seen piloting a variety of vessels, including Gangplank Galleon, a large pirate ship in ''Donkey Kong Country'', the Flying Krock, a [[steampunk]] inspired [[Aircraft|flying machine]] while in ''[[Donkey Kong Country 2: Diddy's Kong Quest]]'' and the Knautilus, a fish-shaped [[submarine]] that appeared in ''[[Donkey Kong Country 3: Dixie Kong's Double Trouble!]]''.

From ''[[DK King of Swing|DK: King of Swing]]'' onward, K. Rool was redesigned with a more cartoony appearance with brighter green skin, a smaller and less bloodshot eye, no tail, a tan-colored underbelly and a smaller crown. This incarnation of K. Rool also makes an appearance in ''[[Mario Super Sluggers]]'' for the [[Wii]], wearing [[Maya rulers|Maya king]] attire and wielding a green [[sceptre]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FnDuRZBIlAg|title=Mario Super Sluggers - Characters Gameplay 1|website=[[YouTube]]|date=June 21, 2008|access-date=November 4, 2015}}</ref> His overall design in ''[[Super Smash Bros. Ultimate]]'' is based on this appearance, but with elements taken from his previous design, such as his tail, golden belly plate and dark green skin.

K. Rool is described as being "demented" and "unbalanced" in his ''[[Super Smash Bros. Melee]]'' trophy description, citing his desire to blow up DK Isles in ''[[Donkey Kong 64]]''.<ref>{{cite video game|title=[[Super Smash Bros. Melee]]|developer=[[Hal Laboratory]]|publisher=[[Nintendo]]|date=December 3, 2001|platform=[[GameCube]]|level=Trophy description}}</ref> In a former Rareware.com scribes column, [[Leigh Loveday]] stated that K. Rool's motivation for stealing the banana hoard is that he wants Donkey Kong to starve to death so that he can occupy his "cosy treehouse pad" or perhaps that he simply likes bananas.<ref>{{cite web|author=Loveday, Leigh |url=//rareware.com/the_site/talk_to_us/scribes/aug25_99/aug25_99.html |title=Scribes, August 25th, 1999 |publisher=Archived from Rareware.com |date=August 25, 1999 |access-date=November 3, 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20020805184158/http://rareware.com/the_site/talk_to_us/scribes/aug25_99/aug25_99.html |archive-date=August 5, 2002}}</ref> The latter explanation is supported by the manual of the first game<ref>{{cite book|title=Donkey Kong Country Instruction Manual|publisher=Nintendo|page=4|date=November 21, 1994}}</ref> and a picture of K. Rool reading a Banana [[Cookbook]] book by Steven Mayles<ref>[https://twitter.com/PlaytonicGames/status/940942452902547456 The twitter for Playtonic games posting an artwork K. Rool reading a book on banana recipes.]</ref>, but contradicted in ''DK: Jungle Climber'', as K. Rool states that he hates bananas.<ref>{{cite video game|title=[[DK Jungle Climber|DK: Jungle Climber]]|developer=[[Paon]]|publisher=[[Nintendo]]|date=September 10, 2007|platform=[[Nintendo DS]]|level=Planet Plantaen|quote='''King K. Rool''': Oh, sweet, creamy, potassium-rich irony! I hate bananas anyway!}}</ref> When asked what the K in "K. Rool" stands for, Mayles said: "It was just a way of making him seem more important, that he'd added it to inflate his ego", joking that "it could have been something tonal like 'Kremling' or something deliberately out of character, like Keith".<ref>{{cite web|author=Martinez, Phillip|url=https://www.newsweek.com/king-k-rool-super-smash-bros-ultimate-creators-designers-too-big-name-1069265|title=King K. Rool Creators Give Origin Details After 'Super Smash Bros. Ultimate' Reveal|publisher=[[Newsweek]]|date=August 10, 2018|access-date= August 19, 2018}}</ref>

== Appearances ==
===Main appearances===
==== ''Donkey Kong Country'' ====
[[File:Donkey Kong Country Final Boss.png|thumb|200px|right|King K. Rool made his debut appearance as the final boss of ''Donkey Kong Country''. He battles by tossing his crown at the player.]]
King K. Rool appears in ''Donkey Kong Country'' as the final boss. Here he steals the Kongs' banana hoard and must be fought on his pirate ship, Gangplank Galleon.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nintendo.com/games/detail/0iK_ty5H0gYk6J21Yk5BzvlcCzJmKOWz|title=Donkey Kong Country|publisher=[[Nintendo.com]]|access-date=November 4, 2015|archive-date=January 14, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190114002149/https://www.nintendo.com/games/detail/0iK_ty5H0gYk6J21Yk5BzvlcCzJmKOWz|url-status=dead}}</ref> This ship later appears as the introduction stage of ''Donkey Kong Country 2'', and again as a sunken ship in ''Donkey Kong 64''. During this battle, K. Rool attempts to punish the Kongs by running into them, jumping on them from above, tossing his crown, and summoning a downpour of cannonballs, presumably from the ship's mast. Halfway through the battle, K. Rool feigns defeat, causing the game's "Kredits" to roll. This is an attempt to deceive the player, as he gets back up soon after and must be jumped on a few more times before the battle truly ends.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h514y8NumNc&t=60m17s|title=Donkey Kong Country :: SPEED RUN Live (0:58:17) (101%) [SNES] by NewAgeRetroHippie #AGDQ 2014|publisher=[[Speed Demos Archive]]|date=March 3, 2014|access-date=November 4, 2015}}</ref>

==== ''Donkey Kong Country 2'' ====
In ''Donkey Kong Country 2'', K. Rool is given the "Kaptain" moniker and kidnaps Donkey Kong.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nintendo.com/games/detail/EHWnVPhcGEx8ar6y61wWxN6dppMaKlyT|title=Donkey Kong Country 2: Diddy's Kong Quest|publisher=[[Nintendo.com]]|access-date=November 4, 2015|archive-date=December 25, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151225045240/http://www.nintendo.com/games/detail/EHWnVPhcGEx8ar6y61wWxN6dppMaKlyT|url-status=dead}}</ref> He wears a pirate costume resembling that of [[Golden Age of Piracy|real pirates]] during the [[Elizabethan era]], complete with a large, black [[bicorne hat]], frock coat, and a [[blunderbuss]] as his weapon of choice. This disguise complements the pirate motif of ''Donkey Kong Country 2''. The Kongs confront Kaptain K. Rool aboard the Flying Krock, a crocodile-shaped aircraft that hovers above Crocodile Isle. During this battle, they must avoid an onslaught of cannonballs and toxic gases that can either reverse the player's controls, slow them down, or briefly stun them. To damage K. Rool, the player must jam his blunderbuss with cannonballs while he uses the firearm's vacuum function. Twice during the battle, K. Rool falls unconscious as Donkey Kong tries to escape being tied up, only for K. Rool to revive and scare him away. The third time K. Rool collapses, DK finally wriggles free and sends him flying with a punch.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ycMAPfCmd7s&t=51m5s|title=Donkey Kong Country 2 :: SPEED RUN Live (0:46:14) by Reflected #AGDQ 2014|publisher=[[Speed Demos Archive]]|date=March 4, 2014|access-date=November 4, 2015}}</ref>

Kaptain K. Rool is fought a second time in Krocodile Kore, a volcano located in the Lost World of Crocodile Isle.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.giantbomb.com/lost-world/3035-2584/|title=Lost World|publisher=[[Giant Bomb]]|access-date=November 4, 2015}}</ref> To gain access to this level, players must collect every bonus token and present them to Klubba, a muscular Kremling who guards the Lost World, which is heavily implied to be the Kremlings' place of origin.<ref>{{cite book| title=Donkey Kong Country 2 Instruction Manual|publisher=Nintendo|page=2|date=November 20, 1995}}</ref> After K. Rool is defeated once more, a cutscene takes place showing Crocodile Isle exploding against a sunset, with the Kong family observing K. Rool escape on a sailboat from a nearby cliff.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vl9WSR7XOq4|title=Donkey Kong Country 2 (102%) - #33 S-boss "Krocodile Kore" + Secret Ending|website=[[YouTube]]|date=September 1, 2011|access-date=November 4, 2015}}</ref>

==== ''Donkey Kong Country 3'' ====
Following the events of ''Donkey Kong Country 2'', K. Rool goes into hiding due to the destruction of Crocodile Isle. This time he kidnaps both Donkey Kong and [[Diddy Kong]], imprisons the Queen Banana Bird, and heads to the Northern Kremisphere. Here he resides in Kastle Kaos, and takes on the role of a [[helipack]]-wearing mad scientist, aptly named Baron K. Roolenstein. He tricks the heroes [[Dixie Kong]] and [[Kiddy Kong]] into believing that he has been defeated and KAOS—a [[Frankenstein's monster|Frankenstein]]-esque robot—is responsible for kidnapping the other Kongs.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nintendo.com/games/detail/Fil-Z4oEZ3c6_edKKvtG9ysKNbXBHjmg|title=Donkey Kong Country 3: Dixie Kong's Double Trouble!|publisher=[[Nintendo.com]]|access-date=November 4, 2015|archive-date=December 22, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151222150555/http://www.nintendo.com/games/detail/Fil-Z4oEZ3c6_edKKvtG9ysKNbXBHjmg|url-status=dead}}</ref> Once they reach the castle, they are shocked to learn that K. Rool has been the true mastermind behind the plot. He states that, "I'd have gotten away with it, if it weren't for you meddling kids", a reference to [[Scooby-Doo]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6vF4MK6BJ7k&t=55m22s|title=Donkey Kong Country 3 :: SPEED RUN (0:52:47) by MorKs #AGDQ 2014|publisher=[[Speed Demos Archive]]|date=March 4, 2014|access-date=November 4, 2015}}</ref>

Baron K. Roolenstein is battled twice; first in Kastle Kaos, and again in the Knautilus, a submarine that is located in this game's hidden world, Krematoa.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.giantbomb.com/krematoa/3035-2585/|title=Krematoa|publisher=[[Giant Bomb]]|access-date=November 4, 2015}}</ref> The name Krematoa is likely derived from the volcanic island Krakatoa. During both boss fights, K. Rool utilizes electricity and technology to torment the Kongs. After being defeated for a second time, K. Rool is chased around the North Kremisphere by the vengeful Queen Banana Bird.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DeS_mXGFJ-w|title=Donkey Kong Country 3 Alternate Final Boss Knaulitus + True Ending|website=[[YouTube]]|date=April 16, 2011|access-date=November 4, 2015}}</ref>

==== ''Donkey Kong 64'' ====
Rather than just kidnap the other Kongs and steal bananas, King K. Rool decides to take a more barbaric approach by planning to blow up Kong Isle with his "Blast-o-matic" laser.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wv04LhJoKLA|title=Donkey Kong 64 - Intro Story|website=[[YouTube]]|date=March 7, 2010|access-date=November 4, 2015}}</ref> K. Rool wears his traditional King attire for the majority of the game, but in the final battle against the Kongs, he wears a boxing outfit under the [[ring name]] of King "Krusha" K. Rool and does battle with them in front of his Kremling subordinates. This final boss fight has five rounds due to there being five playable characters. Much like in his original appearance, K. Rool would get back up after being knocked out. After being distracted by [[Candy Kong]] in a brief cutscene, Funky Kong delivers the final blow to the Kremling King with a mechanical boot.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U2UtaXj8-f8&t=48m5s|title=Donkey Kong 64 SPEED RUN in 0:53:40 by Cfox7 (Awesome Games Done Quick 2013) N64|publisher=[[Speed Demos Archive]]|date=March 4, 2013|access-date=November 4, 2015}}</ref>

===Other appearances===
==== Video games ====
In addition to his primary roles in Rare's ''Donkey Kong Country'' games, King K. Rool appears in ''[[Donkey Kong Land]]'' games. He also appears in several ''Donkey Kong'' games following Microsoft's acquisition of Rare in 2002,<ref>{{cite press release|title=Microsoft Acquires Video Game Powerhouse Rare Ltd.|url=https://news.microsoft.com/2002/09/24/microsoft-acquires-video-game-powerhouse-rare-ltd/|location=Redmond, Washington|publisher=[[Microsoft Corp.]]|date=September 24, 2002|access-date=November 4, 2015}}</ref> including ''[[Donkey Konga]]'', ''[[DK King of Swing|DK: King of Swing]]'', ''[[Donkey Kong Barrel Blast]]'', and ''[[DK Jungle Climber|DK: Jungle Climber]]''. K. Rool's first playable appearance outside of the ''Donkey Kong'' series was in ''[[Mario Super Sluggers]]''. He is the strongest right-handed batter in the game, but has poor stamina and fielding. He shares good chemistry with [[Kritter]] and King Boo, and bad chemistry with the Kongs and Bowser.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L_80VY5rtuk|title=Mario Super Sluggers - Full Roster|website=[[YouTube]]|date=June 22, 2008|access-date=November 4, 2015}}</ref>

K. Rool was planned to appear in ''Diddy Kong Pilot'' for the Game Boy Advance, which was later reworked into ''[[Banjo-Pilot]]'' due to Rare no longer having the authorization to use the ''Donkey Kong'' license. Leaked beta footage shows K. Rool wearing an [[aviator hat|aviator outfit]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.unseen64.net/2011/11/06/beta-versions-of-diddy-kong-pilot-and-banjo-kazooie-gba-now-leaked-and-preserved/|title=Beta versions of Diddy Kong Pilot and Banjo Kazooie GBA now leaked and preserved.|publisher=Unseen64|date=November 7, 2011|access-date=November 3, 2015}}</ref>

In the ''[[Super Mario Odyssey]]'' level New Donk City, there are several [[street name sign]]s that reference ''Donkey Kong'' characters, including K. Rool.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamesradar.com/super-mario-odyssey-easter-eggs-and-secrets-guide/|title=All the Super Mario Odyssey Easter eggs and secrets you might have missed|publisher=[[GamesRadar]]|date=November 11, 2017|access-date=January 17, 2018}}</ref>

In the ''[[Super Smash Bros.]]'' series, K. Rool initially appeared as a collectible trophy in ''[[Super Smash Bros. Melee]]'' and every title since. In ''[[Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U]]'', an outfit bearing his resemblance was made available for download as a [[Mii]] fighter costume.<ref>{{cite web|author=Campbell Evan|url=http://ca.ign.com/articles/2015/07/29/new-super-smash-bros-update-adds-tournaments-king-k-rool-costume|title=New Super Smash Bros. Update Adds Tournaments, King K. Rool Costume|publisher=[[IGN]]|date=July 29, 2015|access-date=December 17, 2015}}</ref> He is a playable character in ''[[Super Smash Bros. Ultimate|Ultimate]]'', becoming the third character representative for the ''Donkey Kong'' franchise.<ref>{{cite web|author=Reed, Chris|url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/super-smash-bros-ultimate-adds-king-k-rool-donkey-/1100-6461023/|title=Super Smash Bros. Ultimate Adds King K. Rool, Donkey Kong's Rival|publisher=[[GameSpot]]|date=August 10, 2018|access-date=August 15, 2018}}</ref> K. Rool's moves are based on his various appearances throughout the ''Donkey Kong'' series, including his crownerang from ''Donkey Kong Country'', his belly flop from ''Donkey Kong Land'', his blunderbuss from ''Donkey Kong Country 2'', his propellerpack from ''Donkey Kong Country 3'', his boxing gloves from ''Donkey Kong 64'', and a ''Donkey Kong 64''-inspired Final Smash that involves K. Rool firing his Blast-o-matic laser.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GKpqPWG_VVA|title=Super Smash Bros. Ultimate ANALYSIS - King K. Rool Reveal Trailer (Secrets & Easter Eggs)|website=[[YouTube]]|date=August 11, 2018|access-date=August 22, 2018}}</ref> In his weekly ''[[Famitsu]]'' column, series director [[Masahiro Sakurai]] stated that K. Rool was selected to join the roster because he "received a ton of votes" in the Smash Bros. Fighter Ballot.<ref>{{cite web|author=Reed, Chris|url=https://sourcegaming.info/2018/08/22/more-information-about-the-smash-direct-sakurais-famitsu-column-vol-561/|title="More Information about the Smash Direct" Sakurai's Famitsu Column Vol. 561|publisher=SourceGaming|date=August 22, 2018|access-date=August 22, 2018}}</ref>

K. Rool, along with Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong, are featured prominently in [[Banjo & Kazooie]]'s ''Super Smash Bros. Ultimate'' reveal trailer, titled "Best Friends".<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qyJ4djjQOr0|title='Super Smash Bros. Ultimate – Best Friends – Nintendo Switch'|website=[[YouTube]]|date=June 11, 2019|access-date=July 8, 2019}}</ref> This trailer continues where K. Rool's trailer left off, showing the Kremling King sleeping in Donkey Kong's treehouse alongside his nemeses.<ref>{{cite web|author=Martinez, Phillip|url=https://www.newsweek.com/banjo-kazooie-smash-ultimate-dlc-e3-2019-1443433|title=Banjo-Kazooie Coming to 'Smash Ultimate' As DLC In Fall 2019|publisher=[[Newsweek]]|date=June 11, 2019|access-date= July 8, 2019}}</ref> All three characters celebrate their reunion with Banjo and Kazooie, who have connections to the ''Donkey Kong'' universe via ''[[Diddy Kong Racing]]'' and [[Rare (company)|Rare]].<ref>{{cite web|author=Lane, Gavin|url=http://www.nintendolife.com/news/2019/06/banjo-kazooie_confirmed_for_super_smash_bros_ultimate_this_fall|title=Banjo-Kazooie Confirmed For Super Smash Bros. Ultimate This Fall|publisher=[[Nintendo Life]]|date=June 11, 2019|access-date= July 8, 2019}}</ref>

==== In other media ====
King K. Rool appears as a main character in the ''[[Donkey Kong Country (TV series)|Donkey Kong Country]]'' animated series, portrayed by [[Canadians|Canadian]] theater actor [[Benedict Campbell]], who gives him a formal British accent. In most episodes, K. Rool attempts to steal the Crystal Coconut, an ancient relic that is said to possess extraordinary power.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nelvana.com/show/188/donkey-kong-country|title=Donkey Kong Country.|publisher=[[Nelvana]]|access-date=November 3, 2015|archive-date=January 22, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150122145152/http://www.nelvana.com/show/188/donkey-kong-country|url-status=dead}}</ref> This iteration of K. Rool has slimmer proportions, a shorter cape, and no tail. His left eye, while retaining the tic from the games, is no longer bloodshot. He is accompanied by his two Kremling henchmen, [[List of Donkey Kong characters#Klump|Klump]] and [[Krusha]], who originally appeared in the ''Donkey Kong Country'' video game as generic enemies. In 2023, Campbell reprised his role as K. Rool in the fan-made animation ''DKC: Return to Krocodile Isle''.<ref>{{cite web|author=Reynolds, Ollie|url=https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2023/05/random-og-donkey-kong-country-tv-series-cast-reunites-for-animated-short|title=Random: OG Donkey Kong Country TV Series Cast Reunites For Animated Short|publisher=[[Nintendo Life]]|date=May 10, 2023|access-date=May 16, 2023}}</ref>

==Reception==
Since his debut in 1994, King K. Rool has received a mostly positive critical reception. K. Rool's appearance in ''Donkey Kong 64'' was ranked number 85 on [[New York Magazine]]'s list of '100 Hardest Video Game Bosses'.<ref>{{cite web|author=Rivera, Joshua|url=http://www.vulture.com/article/100-hardest-video-game-bosses-ranked.html|title=The 100 Hardest Video-Game Bosses, Ranked|magazine=[[New York (magazine)|New York]]|date=September 22, 2017|access-date=September 27, 2017}}</ref> On her list of 'The Top 25 Most Powerful Nintendo Villains', Ashley Glenn of [[Comic Book Resources]] stated that K. Rool is not only "iconic", but "he's also one of the few villains that does something new every game we see him in".<ref>{{cite web|author=Glenn, Ashley|url=https://www.cbr.com/nintendo-villains-strongest-ranked-offically/|title=The 25 Most Powerful Nintendo Villains, Officially Ranked|publisher=[[Comic Book Resources]]|date=January 24, 2019|access-date=January 30, 2020}}</ref>

In 2015, [[Game Revolution]] gave K. Rool the number two spot on their list of characters who deserve a spot in ''Super Smash Bros.'', arguing that "it's been far too long since we've seen the Kremlings get some proper representation, with the reptilian foes being conspicuously absent from both of [[Retro Studios]]' ''DKC'' titles. It's time, Nintendo. Bring back K. Rool!"<ref>{{cite web|author=Osborn, Alex|url=http://www.gamerevolution.com/features/top-10-characters-who-deserve-a-spot-in-super-smash-bros#/slide/9|title=Top 10 Characters Who Deserve a Spot in Smash Bros.|publisher=[[Game Revolution]]|date=September 30, 2015|access-date=November 3, 2015}}</ref> Game Rant listed K. Rool at number eight on their list of the 'Top 10 Most Iconic Nintendo Villains': "We've been waiting patiently for K. Rool to pop up in one of Retro's ''Donkey Kong Country'' games, but at this point, we'd settle for a spot on the ''Super Smash Bros.'' roster instead".<ref>{{cite web|author=Cooper, Dalton|url=http://gamerant.com/10-most-iconic-nintendo-villains/|title=Top 10 Most Iconic Nintendo Villains|publisher=Game Rant|date=October 26, 2015|access-date=November 3, 2015}}</ref> [[Playtonic Games]], a development team containing many former [[Rare (company)|Rare]] employees, campaigned for his inclusion as ''Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U'' [[downloadable content]].<ref>{{cite web|author=McFerran, Damien| url=http://www.nintendolife.com/news/2015/04/former_rare_devs_playtonic_want_donkey_kong_country_villain_k_rool_in_super_smash_bros|title=Former Rare Devs Playtonic Want Donkey Kong Country Villain K. Rool In Super Smash Bros.|publisher=[[Nintendo Life]]|date=April 9, 2015|access-date=November 3, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|author=Deschamps, Marc| url=http://www.nintendojo.com/news/playtonic-games-wants-banjo-and-king-k-rool-in-super-smash-bros|title=Playtonic Games Wants to see Banjo and King K. Rool in Super Smash Bros.|publisher=Nintendojo|date=April 9, 2015|access-date=November 3, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|author=Bernocchi, Pablo| url=https://www.vg247.it/2015/04/09/playtonic-propone-un-altro-personaggio-per-super-smash-bros-ed-e-king-k-rool/|title=Playtonic propone un altro personaggio per Super Smash Bros. ed è King K. Rool|publisher=[[VG247]]|date=April 9, 2015|access-date=July 11, 2018}}</ref> Additionally, many fan conducted polls had found King K. Rool to be a highly requested character in the Smash Bros. Fighter Ballot, an online survey Nintendo held to determine future DLC contenders.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1Th4pdsrzs-6X303PPpw5m-b4JHJ0_cGRKU15KYlTe1E/edit?pli=1#gid=729442469|title=Super Smash Bros. Ballot Community Exit Polls|access-date= November 4, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |author=Lemeric, Wendy|url=http://www.christiantoday.com/article/super.smash.bros.4.dlc.rumors.fighter.ballot.concluded.who.among.the.player.favorites.will.make.it.to.the.roster/67170.htm|title='Super Smash Bros. 4' DLC rumors: who among the player favorites will make it to the roster?|publisher=[[Christian Today]]|date=October 12, 2015|access-date=November 4, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|author=Auon, Michael|url=http://www.gamnesia.com/news/survey-sample-says-shovel-knight-and-king-k-rool-are-leading-the-smash-ball#.VSW9mJTF8bw|title=Survey Sample Says Shovel Knight and King K. Rool are Leading the Smash Ballot|publisher=Gamnesia|date=April 6, 2015|access-date=November 4, 2015|archive-date=November 2, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151102044833/http://www.gamnesia.com/news/survey-sample-says-shovel-knight-and-king-k-rool-are-leading-the-smash-ball#.VSW9mJTF8bw|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|author=PushDustIn|url=https://sourcegaming.info/2015/09/13/japantopdlcpt2/|title=Perception of Smash DLC in Japan, Redux|publisher=Source Gaming|date=September 13, 2015|access-date= July 7, 2018}}</ref> King K. Rool appeared as a playable character in ''Super Smash Bros Ultimate''. His reveal was accompanied by a pre-rendered and gameplay trailer titled "The Rivals".<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0-gfC1upmoA|title='Super Smash Bros. Ultimate – The Rivals – Nintendo Switch'|website=[[YouTube]]|date=August 8, 2018|access-date=August 10, 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|author=Allegra, Frank|url=https://www.polygon.com/2018/8/8/17663978/super-smash-bros-ultimate-king-k-rool-nintendo-switch|title=Donkey Kong villain King K. Rool is in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate|publisher=[[Polygon (website)|Polygon]]|date=August 8, 2018|access-date= August 15, 2018}}</ref> Fans responded to K. Rool's inclusion in ''Super Smash Bros. Ultimate'' by sending series director [[Masahiro Sakurai]] a "thank you" letter.<ref>{{cite web|author=Doolan, Liam|url=http://www.nintendolife.com/news/2018/08/random_smash_fans_thank_sakurai_for_adding_king_k_rool_to_ultimate|title=Random: Smash Fans Thank Sakurai For Adding King K. Rool To Ultimate|publisher=[[Nintendo Life]]|date=August 26, 2018|access-date=August 27, 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|author=Moyse, Chris|url=https://www.destructoid.com/king-k-rool-fans-offer-heartfelt-thanks-for-super-smash-bros-ultimate-inclusion-520105.phtml|title=King K. Rool fans offer heartfelt thanks for Super Smash Bros. Ultimate inclusion|publisher=[[Destructoid]]|date=August 27, 2018|access-date=August 27, 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|author=Raymond, Nicholas|url=https://screenrant.com/super-smash-bros-ultimate-king-k-rool-fans-response/|title=King K. Rool Fans Thank Super Smash Bros. For Including Character|publisher=[[Screen Rant]]|date=August 27, 2018|access-date=August 27, 2018}}</ref> Jeremy Parish of [[Polygon (website)|Polygon]] ranked 73 fighters from ''[[Super Smash Bros. Ultimate]]'' "from garbage to glorious", listing King K. Rool as 58th.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Parish|first=Jeremy|date=2018-12-03|title=We rank the Smash Bros. (and friends)|url=https://www.polygon.com/features/2018/12/3/18120401/super-smash-bros-ultimate-character-rankings|access-date=2020-11-05|website=Polygon|language=en}}</ref> In 2018, [[Paste (magazine)|''Paste'' magazine]] writer Holly Green ranked King K. Rool as her fourth favorite newcomer in ''Smash Bros. Ultimate''.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.pastemagazine.com/articles/2018/12/super-smash-bros-ultimate-new-fighters.html |title=Ranking Super Smash Bros Ultimate's New Fighters |work=[[Paste Magazine]] |last=Green |first=Holly |date=December 26, 2018 |access-date=June 6, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190606085137/https://www.pastemagazine.com/articles/2018/12/super-smash-bros-ultimate-new-fighters.html |archive-date=June 6, 2019 |url-status=live}}</ref> Gavin Jasper of ''[[Den of Geek]]'' ranked King K. Rool as 20th of ''Super Smash Bros. Ultimate'' characters, stating that "the character also makes for an imaginative contrast to the big, heavy villain types in Smash".<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.denofgeek.com/games/super-smash-bros-characters-ranked/|title=Super Smash Bros. Characters Ranked|date=March 7, 2019|website=Den of Geek}}</ref>

==See also==
* [[List of fictional crocodiles and alligators]]

==References==
{{reflist}}

{{Wikiquote}}
{{Donkey Kong Country}}
{{Super Smash Bros.}}
{{Portal bar|Video games}}

[[Category:Villains in animated television series]]
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Latest revision as of 23:28, 19 March 2024

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