The relationship between the protagonist of Greenhouse and Stanley from Donkey Kong 3 is ambiguous. The manual for Greenhouse - written before the release of Donkey Kong 3 - simply states the character to be named "The Fumigator", while print and TV commercials released after Donkey Kong 3 claim the character to be named Stanley, likely as a retcon of sorts to tie in with Donkey Kong 3.

Notably, Stanley is the only character from a Mario universe game that Mr. Game & Watch transforms into in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, while moves based on games such as Mario's Bombs Away and Donkey Kong Junior have him retain his appearance as the pedestrian from Fire as he did in previous Super Smash Bros. games. Additionally, Super Smash Bros. Melee's trophy description for Stanley lists his debut as Donkey Kong 3 and not Greenhouse.