6. Donkey Kong (Atari 2600)
The Box Art: When CBS ported
Donkey Kong from the arcade to the cosy confines of your living room, they also decided that Donkey Kong himself should be infected with rabies this time 'round, because that's far more interesting than him being all cartoony, right? Yes, the box art depicts the lovable oaf we've come to love as a terror monster from the very heart of darkness, presumably hurling barrels with the intention of, I don't know,
killingyou. At least it's "based on the original arcade game" - to not have been would be strange.
The Pitch:CBS Marketing Man: "Sir, I've been told to ask you about the box art for Donkey Kong." Vice President of CBS: "What's a Donkey Kong?" CBS Marketing Man: "He's an ape, sir. A large, barrel-throwing ape." Vice President of CBS: "Ape, huh? I love apes. Is this game aimed at children?" CBS Marketing Man: "It's aimed at everyone, sir." Vice President of CBS: "I hate children. Draw something up that'll give them nightmares. And then give the protagonist... what's the protagonist's name again? CBS Marketing Man: "Mario." Vice President of CBS: "Give this Mario a '70s pornstar appeal. And make sure he's clutching Thor's hammer - that's really important. Do you have a cigar, by the way? CBS Marketing Man: "..."