Super Mario first appeared in the video game "Donkey Kong" in 1981. The game was developed by Nintendo and featured Mario, who at the time was known as "Jumpman," as the protagonist. In the game, Jumpman must rescue his girlfriend, Pauline, who has been kidnapped by the giant ape, Donkey Kong. Jumpman must navigate through a series of obstacles and enemies to reach the top of a construction site where Pauline is being held captive.