Double Dragon Gaiden Walkthrough, Guide, Gameplay and Wiki
by Venkatesh P | Updated Jul 29, 2023
Double Dragon
Double Dragon, known as "双截龍ダブルドラゴン" (Daburu Doragon - Sō Setsu Ryū) in Japan, is a renowned beat 'em up video game series that originated as an arcade game in 1987, developed by Technōs Japan. The series revolves around the adventures of twin martial artists, Billy and Jimmy Lee, as they engage in combat against a variety of adversaries and rivals.
Upon its release, the original Double Dragon achieved tremendous success in the arcade gaming realm, marking the onset of a "Golden Age" for the beat 'em up genre. Its popularity paved the way for a plethora of beat 'em up games during the late 1980s through the 1990s, all of which followed the influential conventions established by Double Dragon. Additionally, attempts were made to expand the franchise's reach through a 1993 animated series and a 1994 live-action film adaptation. However, both adaptations were met with widespread criticism from both critics and audiences alike.
As of now, the Double Dragon franchise is under the ownership of Arc System Works, the company that brought the original Double Dragon to the Master System console in 1988, further solidifying its impact and enduring legacy in the gaming industry.
Double Dragon Gaiden Walkthrough
"Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragon is now available for both PC and consoles, offering a unique twist on the classic 2D beat-em-up genre. For enthusiasts of such games, this title deserves your attention.
Mastering Double Dragon Gaiden can be challenging, especially during the later Missions where enemies become significantly more formidable. To aid your progress, we provide some valuable tips.
DOUBLE DRAGON GAIDEN COMBAT GUIDE
Familiarise Yourself With The Main Characters
Allow us to introduce the starting characters in Double Dragon Gaiden.
Billy Lee:
Known for his speed and swift kicks. His Super Moves include a powerful flying vertical knee, a dive kick with knockdown capability (use it after a double jump), and the iconic Lee Brothers spin kick. Billy is ideal for newcomers to the game.
Jimmy Lee:
Slightly slower than Billy but faster than Uncle Matin. He relies on fist-based attacks and strikes harder than Billy. His double jump ground pound can clear out enemies, but it does not grant Special KO bonuses. Jimmy's Super Moves consist of a multi-hit punch attack, an anti-air uppercut, and a grab move effective against airborne foes.
Marian:
The zoning specialist of the group. Though she has low hit points, her long-range gunfire keeps her at a safe distance from enemies while dealing substantial damage. Marian's Super Moves include a rocket launcher (with delayed startup but significant blast radius that won't harm allies), a mine trap that detonates and draws enemies within range, and a long-reaching single-target command grab. To capitalize on her rocket launcher, ensure your Super Meter remains stocked with power-ups.
Uncle Matin:
The group's heavyweight fighter. While he has fewer combos, his attacks deal considerable damage, and his normal combo ender and run attack can knock down nearby enemies. Though slower, the run cancel technique enhances his mobility. Uncle Matin's Super Moves involve a running riot shield charge, a command grab that slams enemies with area-of-effect damage, and an air grab. His riot shield charge Super can be advantageous if you accumulate Super Meter via power-ups at the end of each level.
RUN CANCEL AFTER ATTACKING. ALWAYS.
In Double Dragon Gaiden, each main character (including bonus ones unlocked with Tokens) possesses a run button (Right Bumper on Xbox controller) and a run attack. Utilizing these allows you to build momentum, perform run attacks that often knock down enemies, and most importantly, cancel any ground attack into a run. Mastering this technique is crucial for advancing in a Double Dragon Gaiden playthrough.
Keep in mind that once you stop running, there is a brief "brake" recovery period. Be cautious when halting in enemy-infested areas, as you may become susceptible to counterattacks.
TOKENS > CASH
During your playthrough, strive to gather as many Tokens as possible. Tokens not only unlock collectibles like nostalgic DD music and concept artwork, but also enable access to additional characters for future playthroughs.
Sub-bosses require 10 Tokens, while Main Bosses (Lady Okada, Willy, Duke, Anubis) demand 25 Tokens. The ??? character, the most potent of them all, requires 50 Tokens.
However, if you prefer to unlock a strong character early on, consider prioritizing the following: Chin (a fast rushdown character), Linda (long-ranged whip Supers), and Abobo (a heavy bruiser with the best AoE Super and armor).
In summary, Double Dragon Gaiden offers a fresh and engaging experience in the 2D beat-em-up genre. To excel, familiarize yourself with the main characters' strengths, master the run cancel technique, and wisely utilize Tokens to unlock powerful characters. Embrace the challenge and enjoy the thrilling journey through the game."
Double Dragon Gaiden Gameplay
Based on the search results, we present an overview of the gameplay found in Double Dragon Gaiden:
Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons introduces players to the iconic Double Dragon brothers in an exciting new adventure. The gameplay is action-packed, allowing players to assume control of the Double Dragon brothers as they navigate through diverse levels and confront adversaries. Both single-player and co-op gameplay options are available, enabling players to join forces with a friend to face the challenges together. The game offers a selection of characters, each possessing distinctive abilities and fighting styles.
Combat in Double Dragon Gaiden involves a combination of punches, kicks, and special moves to overcome foes. As players progress, they will encounter various enemy types, including formidable bosses that present greater difficulties. Additionally, the game may incorporate platforming elements and puzzles that players must solve to advance. Character progression and a potential levelling system allow players to enhance their abilities and increase their prowess.
Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons boasts vibrant and detailed visuals, effectively bringing the world of Double Dragon to life. To gain a comprehensive understanding of the gameplay, interested individuals can watch gameplay videos available on YouTube, including the ones listed in the search results, which feature complete game walkthroughs, previews, and comprehensive gameplay overviews. These videos provide a visual representation of the game mechanics, combat mechanics, and overall gameplay experience.
Double Dragon Gaiden Review
Presenting a review of Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons, derived from the search results:
Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons marks a noteworthy addition to the esteemed Double Dragon franchise, presenting players with an all-new adventure featuring the iconic Double Dragon brothers. The game boasts both single-player and co-op gameplay options, granting players the opportunity to collaborate with a friend in conquering the challenges that lie ahead.
The title provides a diverse roster of characters, each possessing their own distinctive abilities and fighting styles, allowing players to tailor their experience to their preferred playstyle. Within the combat system, a combination of punches, kicks, and special moves empowers players to vanquish their adversaries. Additionally, platforming elements and puzzles may be integrated into the game, encouraging players to exercise their problem-solving skills to advance through the adventure.
A feature of particular note is the potential inclusion of a leveling system or character progression, which permits players to enhance their abilities and ascend to greater levels of power. Upon review, critics have expressed positive sentiments, specifically commending the combat system, graphics, and overall gameplay experience.
Prominent reviews, such as Nintendo Life's appraisal, observe that the game embraces unique concepts, effectively implemented to facilitate player experimentation with mix-ups and the strategic advantages of tag team mechanics. Likewise, Game Informer lauds the game's modernization while retaining the essence of the original Double Dragon games, with particular praise directed towards the tag team mechanics. YouTube reviews further amplify the game's appeal, deeming it "fun" and "exciting."
Furthermore, the game garners acclaim for its captivating graphics and visual design, featuring vibrant and intricate visuals that effectively bring the world of Double Dragon to life. To summarise, Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons stands as a commendable addition to the beloved Double Dragon franchise, delivering an immersive and action-packed gameplay experience replete with fresh characters, challenges, and mechanics.
What Are The Strengths And Weaknesses Of Double Dragon Gaiden?
Based on the research findings, Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons exhibits several strengths and weaknesses that merit consideration:
Strengths:
Combat Mechanics:
The game boasts a well-executed combat system, integrating a diverse array of punches, kicks, and special moves that prove instrumental in overcoming adversaries.
Varied Character Selection:
Players can select from an assortment of characters, each possessing unique abilities and distinctive fighting styles, allowing for personalized gameplay experiences.
Cooperative Gameplay:
The inclusion of tag team mechanics permits players to collaborate with a friend, fostering a sense of camaraderie as they jointly confront the challenges presented by the game.
Immersive Visuals:
The game's artistry shines through with vibrant and meticulous visuals, effectively bringing the captivating world of Double Dragon to life.
Respectful Modernization:
Double Dragon Gaiden demonstrates a commendable balance of revitalizing the series while faithfully preserving the essence of the original games, ensuring a nostalgic appeal to longtime fans.
Weaknesses:
Overemphasis on Replayability:
Some players may find that the game's excessive focus on replayability hinders the overall gaming experience.
Limited Character Pairing Effectiveness:
Certain character pairings may lack synergy, with overlapping grappling strengths and weaknesses, potentially impeding strategic diversity.
Slow Combo Meter Break:
A minor setback is the sluggishness of the combo meter's break, leading to moments of frustration during gameplay.
Perceived Kiddie-fication:
A portion of the audience may find the game to lack energy and perceive an excessive tendency toward a juvenile style.
Overall, Double Dragon Gaiden:
Rise of the Dragons excels in its combat mechanics, cooperative features, and visual design. However, it should be noted that the game's emphasis on replayability and the efficacy of character pairings may warrant further consideration. Additionally, some players may discern a perceived lack of energy or a tendency toward a younger demographic.
Double Dragon Gaiden Combat Walkthrough - FAQs
Double Dragon is a famous beat 'em up video game series featuring twin martial artists, Billy and Jimmy Lee, as they fight against various foes.
The Double Dragon franchise is owned by Arc System Works.
Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons is a 2D beat 'em up game with a fresh twist, offering action-packed gameplay and a diverse character selection.
Sub-bosses require 10 Tokens, Main Bosses need 25 Tokens, and the most potent character requires 50 Tokens.
Double Dragon Gaiden's strengths include its engaging combat mechanics, varied character selection, cooperative gameplay, immersive visuals, and respectful modernization.