Video Game Review: Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise Of The Dragons

Developer: Secret Base
Publisher: Maximum Games
Genre: Beat ‘Em Up
Reviewed For Nintendo Switch
Also Available On Xbox, PlayStation, PC

The Nintendo Switch has another retro beat ’em up and I’m not mad about it. Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise Of The Dragons is finally here!

The premise ofDouble Dragon Gaiden: Rise Of The Dragons is as simple as it gets – the world is in turmoil due to the actions of four menacing gangs, and players are called upon by the mayor to quell their reign and restore harmony to the old world. While the storyline may not be groundbreaking, it serves as a solid foundation for the ensuing adventure that awaits. There is a nice moment where the story goes in an unexpected direction though, strengthening the narrative and gameplay too.

The controls in Double Dragon Gaiden are highly responsive, ensuring a seamless gaming experience. Players can execute various inputs to unleash unique specials, providing an array of options to tackle adversaries. Taking down enemies with these specials rewards players based on the number of foes defeated simultaneously, adding an element of challenge and satisfaction to combat encounters.

As players complete levels, they earn money that can be spent on upgrades, providing a rogue-lite experience. Whether specializing in one character or finding a balance between the two, the upgrade system adds depth and longevity to the game.

Cooperative play proves to be a standout feature, encouraging players to team up with a friend to enhance crowd control and gain significant health boosts. As challenges intensify in the later stages, the value of cooperative play becomes even more evident. The game introduces a diverse range of enemy types, forcing players to adapt their strategies strategically as they progress through the levels.

While Double Dragon Gaiden boasts enemy diversity, some players may find certain aspects repetitive after multiple playthroughs. Additionally, the game’s pacing may not match the intensity of modern peers, taking a few playthroughs before fully engaging the players. Nonetheless, the initial stages and first few playthroughs are a blast. Players should at least get 10 hours before any signs of burnout.

From gun-wielding characters ideal for newcomers seeking a ranged advantage to those skilled in close-quarters combat, the game caters to varying preferences with an excellent roster. Each character feels unique, increasing replayability and promoting experimentation with different character combinations.

The token shop serves as a post-game destination where players can convert their hard-earned tokens. Offering gameplay modifiers and the chance to unlock 9 additional characters, this feature spices up the experience and keeps players engaged beyond the main storyline.

Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise Of The Dragons is a nostalgic and enjoyable retro beat ’em up for the Nintendo Switch. Despite its simple storyline, the game excels in providing a seamless and engaging gaming experience with responsive controls, diverse character options, and the thrill of cooperative play. While some repetitive elements may surface over time, the post-game token shop contributes to a rewarding and satisfying time that will keep fans of the genre busy.