Double Dragon: The Classic Beat 'em Up Game
Developed by Technos Japan, Double Dragon is a classic side-scrolling beat 'em up game released in 1987. It became a huge success and was later ported to several other gaming systems, including the NES, Sega Genesis, and Atari ST. The game features twin brothers Billy and Jimmy Lee, who must fight through several levels filled with dangerous enemies and obstacles to save Billy's girlfriend Marian from the evil gang leader, Willy. Double Dragon is often regarded as one of the best games of its era and has since become a cult classic among retro gaming enthusiasts.
The Gameplay
The gameplay in Double Dragon is relatively simple yet engaging. The player controls either Billy or Jimmy Lee and battles their way through seven levels, each with its own boss at the end. In addition to standard punches and kicks, the player can also perform special moves, such as spin kicks, elbow strikes, and jump kicks. Weapons such as knives, bats, and whips can also be picked up and used against enemies. The game also features two-player co-op, allowing players to team up and take on the game's challenges together.
The Legacy
Double Dragon's success led to the development of several sequels, including Double Dragon II: The Revenge and Double Dragon III: The Rosetta Stone. The franchise also spawned a comic book series, an animated television show, and two live-action movies. Double Dragon's influence can be seen in several other beat 'em up games that followed, such as Streets of Rage and Final Fight. In recent years, the game has been re-released on modern platforms, including the Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One, allowing a new generation of gamers to experience the joy of this classic game.
The Verdict
Double Dragon is undoubtedly a classic game that has stood the test of time. Its simple yet addictive gameplay, memorable characters, and iconic soundtrack make it a must-play for retro gaming enthusiasts. With its influence felt in several other games that followed, Double Dragon's impact on the gaming industry cannot be overstated. If you haven't played it yet, do yourself a favor and give it a try!