Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons: A Lesson in Roguelike Beat ‘Em Up

Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons teaches us an important lesson: don’t trust strange men who claim to be the new mayor and ask for your help. But it also shows us that combining roguelike elements and tag-team combat can create an exciting side-scrolling beat ’em up. While the game may not excel in other areas, it still offers a unique experience that fans of the genre will enjoy.

Simple and Enjoyable Combat

The combat in DDG is straightforward and easy to pick up. You don’t need to be an expert in platform fighters to execute the combos and special moves. The game provides generous windows for juggling enemies, which adds to the overall satisfaction of the combat. The real depth comes from the tag system, allowing you to choose two characters to fight with, each with their own unique abilities.

A Variety of Fighters

One of the highlights of DDG is the wide variety of fighters available. With 14 different characters, each with their own distinct playstyle, there is a fighter to suit every preference. Boss characters can also be unlocked, retaining their unique abilities. Some characters can wield enemy weapons, while others have special moves that involve objects in the environment. The options for team combinations are endless.

Tactical Decisions and Mission Structure

DDG offers a unique mission structure that allows you to choose which boss to fight first. However, as the game progresses, the missions become longer and more challenging. While this initially seems like an opportunity for strategic decision-making, it ultimately becomes a matter of personal preference. The variety in mission structure adds to the replayability of the game.

Visually Impressive with Minor Flaws

The game features visually creative backdrops, but some levels are less impressive than others. The use of gimmicks can sometimes detract from the gameplay experience, such as a level covered in darkness. However, overall, the visuals are appealing and add to the overall atmosphere of the game.

Minor Gameplay Inconveniences

While the combat and level design are enjoyable, there are some minor inconveniences. Platforming sections can be frustrating, and enemies can spawn in previously cleared areas, forcing you to backtrack. However, these issues can be mitigated by planning your route carefully.

Roguelike Buffs and Enemy Variety

At the end of each stage, you have the opportunity to spend money on buffs that enhance your abilities. While the buff system is not as intricate as in other roguelikes, it still adds an extra layer of customization. Enemy variety does not expand significantly throughout the game, which can make gameplay feel repetitive after a while.

Challenging Boss Fights

The boss fights in DDG can be tough due to their complex ability chains and quick recoveries. Some bosses undergo dramatic transformations as the game progresses, adding an extra challenge. However, there are a few bosses that have similar patterns regardless of when you fight them, which can be disappointing.

Overall, Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons offers an enjoyable and unique beat ’em up experience. While it may have some minor flaws, the game’s combat mechanics, variety of fighters, and replayability make it a worthwhile addition to any fan’s collection.