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Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons
Item: Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

GenresAdventure, Action, Platformer, Side View Perspective, Fighting, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableJul 27, 2023

PlatformNintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X

DeveloperSecret Base

Overview

Prepare to throw down the Double Dragon way in this fresh addition to the iconic beat ‘em up franchise. Explore the early beginnings of the young Double Dragon brothers as they take on both new and familiar enemies in this alternate story. In this fresh roguelite take, every playthrough is brand new chance at new action. Featuring a unique and dynamic level structure, the difficulty of the missions you take on will change depending on the order you have selected them. Tag in and out as the classic duo Billy and Jimmy, switch it up with Marian and Uncle Matin, or experiment with 9 additional unlockable characters, each with their own special moves and unique playstyles. With 2 player local co-op, the action quadruples as you and a friend clean up the mean streets.

Elsewhere

8.2

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons impresses with nostalgic charm and action in a post-apocalyptic New York, featuring beloved characters like the Lee brothers and Marian. Critics praise its engaging gameplay and non-linear progression but slam the simplistic, forgettable story as merely a backdrop for combat, lacking depth. While fans may appreciate the nostalgia, newcomers might find the narrative underwhelming.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

15%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

85%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The story of Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons has garnered a generally positive reception among critics, particularly for its nostalgic and action-packed premise. Many reviewers, such as Gamers' Temple and XboxAddict, highlight the game's setting in a post-apocalyptic New York City, where the Lee brothers, Billy and Jimmy, alongside their allies, take on various gangs to restore order. The inclusion of familiar characters like Marian and Uncle Martin, as noted by XboxEra and Vgames, adds depth to the narrative, appealing to fans of the franchise. Additionally, the game's non-linear progression and the ability to tackle different factions, as mentioned by SECTOR.sk, offer players a degree of agency that enriches the overall experience. However, the story has faced criticism for its simplicity and lack of complexity. Critics such as TheXboxHub and Impulsegamer describe the narrative as generic and serving primarily as a backdrop for the gameplay rather than a compelling story in its own right. The sentiment is echoed by Metro GameCentral, who dismisses the storyline as inconsequential, merely providing a justification for the beat 'em up mechanics. Other reviewers, like God is a Geek and Hardcore Gamer, point out that the story feels standard for the genre, lacking the depth and engagement that could elevate it beyond a typical beat 'em up experience. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons successfully taps into the nostalgic elements of the franchise and offers engaging gameplay, its story remains a weak point. Many reviewers appreciate the post-apocalyptic setting and the familiar characters, but they also note that the narrative is simplistic and somewhat forgettable. Critics like Windows Central and GameSpew acknowledge the depth added to the gameplay through character interactions, yet the overarching sentiment is that the story does not significantly enhance the overall experience. Thus, while the game may resonate with long-time fans, it may not captivate new players seeking a rich narrative.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons offers addictive combat mechanics and innovative tag team features, earning praise for its engaging gameplay and replayability. However, it suffers from frustrating combat flaws, including delayed attacks and repetitive mechanics, which can disrupt the experience. While critics appreciate its nostalgic charm and strategic roguelite elements, the game presents challenges that may turn off some players, making it a mixed bag for fans of the genre.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

69%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

31%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons has garnered a generally positive reception among critics. Many reviewers praised the game's combat mechanics, highlighting the solid and addictive nature of the fighting system. For instance, Gamers' Temple noted the emphasis on crowd control and unique character abilities, which mirror the successful formula of TMNT: Shredder's Revenge. Critics like SECTOR.sk and XboxAddict appreciated the depth introduced by the tag team mechanics and the variety of unlockable characters, which enhance replayability. The roguelite elements, mentioned by multiple reviewers including Worth Playing and Xbox Tavern, add a layer of strategic decision-making, allowing players to choose different paths and character combinations, ultimately enriching the gameplay experience. However, not all reviews were favorable, as several critics pointed out significant flaws in the gameplay. Game Informer criticized the combat for being frustrating due to delayed attacks and the lack of invincibility when tagging in partners, which can lead to players being stun-locked. This sentiment was echoed by GameSkinny, which described the combat as simplistic and lacking depth. Additionally, some reviewers, including Vgames, noted that the combat could become repetitive over time, especially with the heavy reliance on special moves. The balance between challenge and enjoyment was also questioned, with PCMag mentioning frustrating difficulty spikes that detract from the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons offers a nostalgic and engaging beat 'em up experience with innovative mechanics, it is marred by issues that can disrupt the flow of gameplay. The combination of solid combat mechanics and roguelite features received praise from critics such as PlayStation LifeStyle and Push Square, who highlighted the game's replayability. However, the criticisms regarding combat complexity and balance, as noted by Game Informer and Destructoid, indicate that while the game has potential, it may not fully meet the expectations of all players. Thus, the game stands as a mixed bag, appealing to fans of the genre while also presenting challenges that could frustrate some players.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons impresses with nostalgic pixel art and vibrant visuals that charm many critics, yet faces backlash for inconsistent character designs and a cluttered interface. While fans of retro gaming may revel in its aesthetics, some players feel the super-deformed style and low-budget graphics miss the mark, leading to a mixed reception overall.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

32%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

65%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons have garnered a generally positive reception among critics, highlighting its nostalgic charm and appealing aesthetics. Many reviewers, such as Gamers' Temple and Windows Central, praised the game's pixel art graphics, noting their smooth animations and nostalgic references to the classic Double Dragon series. The vibrant colors and attention to detail in environments were commended by critics like XboxEra and Worth Playing, who appreciated the balance of modernization with retro aesthetics. The chibi art style, as noted by XboxAddict and Hardcore Gamer, adds a unique twist that resonates with players, contributing to the game's overall charm and visual appeal. However, not all feedback was positive, as several critics pointed out various shortcomings in the game's visual design. Generación Xbox mentioned issues with a cluttered graphical interface during boss battles and the lack of distinct character designs. SECTOR.sk expressed concerns about the game's visual identity, suggesting it may not resonate with all players. Critics like Metro GameCentral and Game Informer noted that while the animations are fluid, the graphics feel low-budget and may not capture the essence of the original games. The super-deformed style, while charming to some, was considered off-putting by others, as highlighted by SpazioGames and Hardcore Gamer, indicating a divide in player preference. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons successfully captures the nostalgic essence of its predecessors through its pixel art and animations, appealing to fans of retro gaming. However, the game also faces criticism for its inconsistent character designs and a lack of cohesive visual identity, which may detract from the experience for some players. While the charming and colorful environments received praise, the mixed reception of the character designs and graphical interface indicates that the game may not fully satisfy all audiences. Critics like Destructoid and PCMag encapsulate this sentiment, acknowledging the game's vibrant visuals while also recognizing that its appeal may vary among players.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons boasts a nostalgic and energetic soundtrack praised for remixes of classic tracks that enhance gameplay. Critics highlight its retro charm and modern twists but note issues with memorability and repetitiveness, suggesting it's enjoyable but lacks lasting impact. Overall, while the audio experience elevates the game, it doesn't reach classic status due to its forgettable compositions.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

65%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

30%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons have received a generally positive reception from critics, highlighting the nostalgic and energetic elements that resonate well with players. Many reviewers, such as Gamers' Temple and XboxAddict, praised the soundtrack for its remixes of classic Double Dragon tracks, noting that it enhances the gameplay experience. The nostalgic 80s metal vibe mentioned by Generación Xbox adds to the retro charm, while Xbox Tavern appreciates the remastered tracks with a modern twist that fit the high-energy gameplay. Critics like Vgames and Checkpoint Gaming also noted that the soundtrack enhances the overall atmosphere of the game, contributing positively to the player’s immersion. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the music's memorability and impact. SECTOR.sk and ZTGD expressed disappointment, stating that the music lacks memorable qualities, which could detract from the overall experience. While some critics, like PlayStation Country, acknowledged that the soundtrack complements the gameplay well, they also pointed out that it may not leave a lasting impression. Additionally, while the sound design received some praise for enhancing combat impact, there were mentions of repetitiveness in combat music, as noted by Hobby Consolas, indicating that the audio experience may not hold up over extended play sessions. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons features a solid soundtrack that effectively pays homage to its predecessors, it falls short in creating truly memorable musical moments. The remixes and energetic soundscapes receive commendation for their role in enhancing gameplay, as seen in reviews from Hardcore Gamer and Impulsegamer. However, the criticisms regarding the music's forgettability and the potential repetitiveness suggest that while the audio experience is enjoyable, it may not elevate the game to a classic status. The blend of nostalgia and modernity resonates well with many players, yet the mixed opinions indicate a need for more impactful and memorable compositions to truly captivate the audience.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

voice acting

Description unavailable

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons boasts retro charm and solid core gameplay, especially on Xbox Series X and Nintendo Switch, but suffers from significant technical flaws. The Switch and PS5 versions face long loading times and glitches, while the PC version struggles with arcade stick compatibility. Critics highlight its strengths but agree that optimization is needed across platforms to improve the overall experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

13%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

88%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons has garnered a variety of opinions across different gaming platforms. Starting with the positives, the Xbox Series X version received praise from Generación Xbox for its retro charm, noting that the music, sound effects, graphics, and localization contribute positively to the overall experience. On the Nintendo Switch, despite some underlying issues, TRG highlighted that the game ran fluidly and responsively, suggesting that the core gameplay mechanics were well-executed. The PS5 version, while criticized for loading times, did not face any specific technical complaints about graphics or performance, indicating that it maintained a solid baseline experience. However, the negatives are where the criticisms become more pronounced. The Nintendo Switch version was particularly scrutinized, with both Hardcore Gamer and SpazioGames pointing out long loading times and technical glitches such as characters getting stuck off-screen and enemies attacking from off-screen. This suggests a lack of optimization for the platform. On the PS5, both GameSkinny and PCMag echoed concerns regarding long load times, which detracted from the overall gameplay experience. Meanwhile, the PC version faced unique challenges, as Destructoid noted that the game felt awkward when using an arcade stick, although they did mention the option to rebind buttons, which could mitigate some of these issues. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons has its strengths, particularly in its retro aesthetic and core gameplay, it is marred by technical issues, especially on the Nintendo Switch and PS5 platforms. Critics like Generación Xbox and TRG recognized the charm and responsiveness of the game, but the repeated mentions of long loading times and gameplay bugs across multiple platforms suggest that the game may require further optimization to enhance the experience. Thus, while there are redeeming qualities, the technical performance has left a mixed impression among reviewers.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons shines with strong replay value thanks to its roguelike mechanics, diverse characters, and dynamic missions. Critics celebrate the unlockable content as a major draw, making each playthrough feel fresh. However, concerns about repetitiveness and limited mission variety suggest that while the game is fun, it may not hold players' interest for the long haul. Overall, it delivers an engaging experience, but beware of potential fatigue after multiple runs.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

50%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

45%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons is predominantly positive, with many critics praising the game's roguelike elements and diverse gameplay mechanics. Reviewers such as Gamers' Temple and Windows Central highlight the significant replay value stemming from the variety of characters to unlock and the dynamic mission selection that affects the length and difficulty of each playthrough. Generación Xbox also notes the enjoyable gameplay and the impact of player decisions on the adventure's length, which adds to the game's replayability. Critics like Xbox Tavern and XboxAddict emphasize the appeal of unlockable content, including characters, artwork, and music, which encourages players to engage in multiple runs to experience everything the game has to offer. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the game's longevity and potential repetitiveness. SECTOR.sk and Worth Playing mention that while the game has replay value, it can become repetitive over time, suggesting that some players may tire of the gameplay loop before fully unlocking all content. Game Informer and PlayStation LifeStyle echo this sentiment, pointing out that despite the various unlockables, the limited number of main missions could lead to a lack of content for extended replay sessions. Additionally, some critics, such as TRG and Hardcore Gamer, express concerns that once players have experienced the game fully, there may be little incentive to continue playing, indicating a potential drop in engagement after initial runs. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons offers a solid replay value through its roguelike mechanics, unlockable content, and character variety. While many reviewers, including Cultured Vultures and COGconnected, celebrate the game's ability to provide a fresh experience with each playthrough, a significant number caution that the game's repetitive nature and limited content could hinder long-term engagement. Thus, while the game is generally well-received for its replayability, it may not sustain player interest for as long as some might hope.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

46%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

52%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment regarding Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its engaging gameplay, nostalgic elements, and replay value. Reviewers like Gamers' Temple and Generación Xbox highlight the game's addicting mechanics and excellent soundtrack, while also noting the successful blend of classic and contemporary styles. XboxEra calls it the "best Double Dragon game yet," emphasizing its modernization of the franchise. The variety of unlockable content and character playstyles also received commendation, with Windows Central describing it as one of the best modern entries in the beat 'em up genre. Many critics, including App Trigger and But Why Tho?, awarded the game high scores, indicating strong overall enjoyment. However, the game is not without its shortcomings. Several reviewers pointed out the lack of online co-op as a significant drawback, with Gamers' Temple and XboxAddict mentioning this absence as a missed opportunity for a more connected experience. Visual design and repetitiveness were also common criticisms; SECTOR.sk noted that the game falls short in visual appeal, while Worth Playing and Metro GameCentral highlighted issues with enemy variety and late-game difficulty spikes. Critics like Game Informer and GamingTrend suggested that despite its fun elements, the game could be frustrating due to design choices that detract from the overall enjoyment. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons successfully revives the beloved franchise while offering a fun and engaging experience for fans of beat 'em ups. While it has notable strengths, such as gameplay and character variety, its shortcomings—particularly in visual design and the lack of online multiplayer—prevent it from achieving greatness. Critics like Xbox Tavern and Push Square encapsulate this sentiment, recommending the game primarily to fans of the genre while acknowledging its flaws. Overall, it stands as a solid addition to the beat 'em up landscape, though it may not reach the heights of its predecessors or contemporaries.

TL;DR

Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons earns praise for its addictive gameplay, nostalgic charm, and character variety, securing high scores from critics who call it the best in the franchise. However, it suffers from the absence of online co-op, lackluster visuals, and repetitiveness, which hinder its overall appeal. While recommended for beat 'em up fans, it falls short of greatness compared to its predecessors.

MONSTER

Reviews

112 reviews found

Hooked Gamers

Jul 28, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons is a fun and nostalgic beat 'em up with a pleasant amount of replayability. The potential issue of feeling railroaded into certain routes is mentioned, but the game is highly recommended for fans of Double Dragon, beat 'em ups, or roguelike games.

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Windows Central

Xbox Series X

Jul 27, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons is highly recommended for fans of beat 'em ups, offering a rich combat system, diverse character playstyles, and engaging gameplay elements that elevate it as one of the best modern entries in the genre.

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Xbox Tavern

Xbox Series X

Jul 28, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons is a perfect addition to the series, keeping what made the originals memorable while enhancing the experience. Worth picking up.

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Generación Xbox

Xbox Series X

Jul 27, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Successfully blends nostalgia with innovation, high praise for classic-meets-contemporary approach, excellent soundtrack, and variety of unlockable content.

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Gamers' Temple

Xbox Series X

Aug 14, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game is highly recommended and praised for its replay value, addicting gameplay, fantastic soundtrack, and character variety. The lack of online co-op is mentioned as a negative point.

XboxAddict

Xbox Series X

Jul 27, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game is praised for its gameplay, visuals, and sound design. The lack of online multiplayer is seen as a drawback. Overall, the game receives a score of 8.5 out of 10.

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App Trigger

Nintendo Switch

Aug 8, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review gives the game a score of 8.5/10 and highly recommends it for fans of beat 'em ups.

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Hobby Consolas

Jul 27, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

A notable entry in the franchise that combines humor and action effectively, providing an enjoyable experience despite lacking some modes and spectacle.

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Gaming Age

PlayStation 4

Jul 27, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game puts an interesting spin on the beat'em up genre with its gameplay mechanics and post-apocalyptic setting. It is worth a playthrough for fans of the genre.

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Cultured Vultures

Jul 27, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons is a smart, fun, and well-executed roguelike beat 'em up.

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