Unleash Your Inner Warrior with Double Dragon Gaiden: A New Twist to Classic Beat 'Em Up Action!

Double Dragon is set to join the ranks of Streets of Rage and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles as another classic Beat 'em-up franchise receiving a modern-day update. With the resurgence in popularity of beat 'em ups, it was only a matter of time before Double Dragon, one of the genre's most popular and widely-known series, got its own new entry. What sets Double Dragon Gaiden apart is its commitment to maintaining the classic feel of the original games.

While Streets of Rage 4 brought back the gameplay style of the original three games in the series, focusing on combos and cancels, other modern beat 'em ups have varied in their complexity. TMNT: Shredder's Revenge found a balance between the technicality of Streets of Rage 4 and the button-mashing fun of the original TMNT arcade games. In a recent interview with Game Rant, Raymond Teo, founder of Secret Base, discussed how Double Dragon Gaiden approaches the game feel associated with the genre, among other things.

When I began working on the game, one of my initial tasks was to compare Double Dragon, whether it be the NES version or the classic arcade version, with other beat 'em up games from the 90s and modern ones. This allowed me to identify the differences and gain a better understanding. Teo emphasized the importance of Secret Base's team achieving a perfect balance between the original essence of Double Dragon and incorporating the advancements made by contemporary entries in the genre.

During the process, we brainstormed various ideas, one of which revolved around enhancing the combat experience. We aimed to give it a slightly weightier feel, while also incorporating more elements of the environment and terrain when players traverse different locations.

While the original combat mechanics in Double Dragon distinguished it from its peers in the arcade and console versions of the original trilogy, the genre has since evolved to encompass moves reminiscent of fighting games. In addition to the expected punch, kick, and combinations, newer beat 'em up games have introduced subtleties like move canceling, which is a vital aspect found in most competitive fighting games. Teo and his team are mindful of this evolution and aim to strike a delicate balance between preserving the essence of the original games, honoring their legacy, and meeting the expectations of modern beat 'em up enthusiasts.

When discussing classic beat 'em ups, it's important to consider the movesets and how they feel to use, as they are the cornerstone of these games. However, one cannot overlook the significance of cooperative play when talking about these types of games. Many players have nostalgic memories of playing beat 'em ups with friends, whether it was gathering around an arcade cabinet or playing together on the couch at home.

Secret Base understands the importance of cooperative play in Double Dragon Gaiden's gameplay. Teo explains that the team is striving to strike a delicate balance in this aspect.

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Contrary to common expectations, beat 'em up games are often perceived to be enjoyable only when played with a friend. However, even in my childhood, I would occasionally play beat 'em ups alone. Thus, my goal was to create a beat 'em up that is equally entertaining in solo play.

Implementing this approach, Secret Base has diligently ensured that each of the game's 13 distinct playable characters is well-balanced for both cooperative and solo gameplay. With a deep understanding of the genre and a profound respect for the franchise's legacy, Double Dragon Gaiden appears to be yet another outstanding modern beat 'em up, though fans will have the opportunity to judge for themselves in the near future.

Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons releases on July 27 for PC, PS4, PS5, Switch, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X.