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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

PlatformXbox Series X, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, PC

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

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

"Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons" is praised for its post-apocalyptic New York setting and nostalgic characters, yet criticized for a simplistic and generic story that feels secondary to the gameplay. While the game's narrative enhances the action, many reviewers agree it lacks depth and complexity, ultimately serving as a standard backdrop for a beat 'em up. Fans will enjoy the familiar dynamics, but the plot doesn’t break new ground.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

16%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

84%

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 from critics, particularly regarding its setting and premise. Many reviewers, such as Gamers' Temple and XboxEra, appreciate the game's backdrop of a post-apocalyptic New York City, where players control the iconic Lee brothers, Billy and Jimmy, as they battle against various gangs to restore order. The inclusion of allies like Uncle Martin and Marian adds depth to the narrative, as noted by XboxAddict and Vgames. Critics like Windows Central highlight that the story enhances the beat 'em up gameplay, suggesting that the narrative serves as a fitting vehicle for the action. The non-linear progression mentioned by SECTOR.sk also contributes to the overall appeal, allowing players to engage with different themes and bosses, which adds variety to the experience. However, the story has drawn criticism for its simplicity and lack of complexity. Critics such as TheXboxHub and Impulsegamer describe the narrative as generic or even confusing, with some reviewers feeling that it serves merely as a flimsy excuse for the gameplay rather than a compelling story in its own right. The consensus among critics like Metro GameCentral and God is a Geek is that the plot is somewhat inconsequential, focusing primarily on the action rather than developing a rich narrative. This sentiment is echoed by Hardcore Gamer, who refers to the story as standard for the beat 'em up genre, indicating that it does not break new ground in terms of storytelling. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while "Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons" features an engaging setting and familiar characters, its story is largely viewed as a straightforward and somewhat formulaic backdrop for the gameplay. Many reviewers, including PlayStation Country and Everyeye.it, agree that the narrative lacks depth and branching paths, which could have elevated the experience. Despite these criticisms, the game's premise and character dynamics resonate well with fans of the genre, creating a nostalgic yet familiar atmosphere that appeals to long-time followers of the franchise.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons delivers a solid blend of classic beat 'em up action and modern roguelite mechanics, earning praise for its crowd control, tag team features, and character variety that enhances replayability. Critics laud its addictive combat but note concerns over simplicity and potential repetitiveness, with some frustrating difficulty spikes. Despite these drawbacks, the game's strategic elements and cooperative play make it a standout title in the genre, appealing to both newcomers and veterans. Overall, it’s a commendable addition to the beat 'em up scene, overshadowing its imperfections with engaging gameplay.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

68%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

32%

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 received a largely positive reception from critics, who commend its blend of classic beat 'em up mechanics with modern roguelite elements. Reviewers from outlets like Gamers' Temple and XboxEra highlight the game's emphasis on crowd control, special moves, and tag team mechanics, which add depth and replayability. The ability to choose which criminal faction to tackle first, as noted by Generación Xbox, introduces strategic decision-making that enhances the gameplay experience. Critics also appreciate the variety of characters available, each with unique abilities, which encourages experimentation and keeps the gameplay fresh. The solid combat mechanics, as mentioned by TheXboxHub and Windows Central, are described as addictive and satisfying, contributing to an overall enjoyable experience. However, several critics have pointed out notable drawbacks that detract from the gameplay experience. For instance, Game Informer and Destructoid express concerns about the combat system's simplicity, with some reviewers feeling that it lacks depth and can become repetitive over time. The potential for frustration is also highlighted, particularly regarding enemies that can stun-lock players, as noted by ZTGD and Game Informer. Additionally, while some critics praise the roguelite elements, others, like PCMag, mention that the game can suffer from frustrating difficulty spikes and a repetitive feel, which may impact long-term enjoyment. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons successfully merges nostalgic beat 'em up gameplay with modern mechanics, offering a fun and engaging experience. While there are valid criticisms regarding the game's simplicity and potential repetitiveness, the positive aspects—such as the character variety, crowd control mechanics, and strategic elements—tend to overshadow these issues. Critics like XboxAddict and PlayStation LifeStyle emphasize the game's replay value and cooperative gameplay potential, suggesting that it appeals to both newcomers and veterans of the genre. Ultimately, the game stands as a commendable addition to the beat 'em up landscape, despite its imperfections.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons impresses with its charming pixel art and smooth animations, earning praise for its nostalgic 16-bit graphics and vibrant environments. While most critics celebrate its visual style, some point out flaws like a lack of distinct identity and distracting UI elements. Overall, the game strikes a balance between nostalgia and modern flair, appealing to both old fans and newcomers, despite some mixed critiques on specific design choices.

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 largely positive reception from critics, highlighting the game's charming pixel art and fluid animations. Reviewers such as Gamers' Temple and Windows Central praised the nostalgic appeal of the retro 16-bit graphics, noting that the animations are smooth and well-executed. XboxEra and XboxAddict echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the game's vibrant environments and the successful balance between modernization and nostalgia. Critics like Worth Playing and TheXboxHub appreciated the adorable sprite art style and the attention to detail in the backgrounds, which are filled with colorful elements and inside jokes that resonate with fans of the franchise. However, not all feedback is entirely favorable. Some critics pointed out various shortcomings in the visual design. Generación Xbox mentioned issues like the defeated enemies appearing in gray and an excessive graphical interface during boss battles, which detracted from the overall experience. SECTOR.sk expressed concerns about the game lacking a distinct visual identity, suggesting that it may not appeal to all players. Additionally, Metro GameCentral criticized the graphics as low budget and not reminiscent of the original games, while Hardcore Gamer noted that the cartoonish art style, characterized by disproportionately large heads, might be off-putting at first, though it could grow on players over time. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates a strong appreciation for the game's visual style, particularly its nostalgic elements and charming animations. While there are critiques regarding certain design choices and the lack of a unique identity, the majority of reviewers, including PCMag and Destructoid, found the pixel art to be colorful, clean, and well-animated. The game successfully captures the essence of the classic Double Dragon series while introducing a fresh aesthetic that appeals to both new players and long-time fans. Despite some mixed feelings about specific aspects of the graphics, the overall sentiment leans positively, highlighting the game's artistic achievements and engaging visual presentation.

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, with critics praising remixes of classic tracks for enhancing gameplay. However, some reviewers argue that the music lacks memorability, making it forgettable rather than iconic. Overall, while the audio design is engaging, there's a call for more standout compositions to truly resonate with players.

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 game's nostalgic appeal and energetic audio. Reviewers such as Gamers' Temple and XboxAddict praised the soundtrack for its remixes of iconic Double Dragon tracks, noting that these elements contribute significantly to the game's retro charm. Generación Xbox emphasized the nostalgic 80s metal soundtrack, while Xbox Tavern appreciated the high-energy remastered tracks that fit well with the gameplay. Critics like Hardcore Gamer and Impulsegamer also noted that the mix of new tracks and revamped classics enhances the overall atmosphere and complements the brawling action, creating an engaging experience for players. However, not all feedback is as favorable. Some critics expressed concerns about the memorability of the music, with SECTOR.sk stating that the soundtrack lacks memorable tunes, which could detract from the overall experience. ZTGD echoed this sentiment by describing the music as familiar yet forgettable. Additionally, PlayStation Country mentioned that while the music fits well with the level motifs, it doesn't stand out as particularly memorable. This sentiment was also reflected in GamingTrend's observation that while the energetic remixes are enjoyable, they may not significantly enhance replay value. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while the sound design and music of Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons successfully evoke nostalgia and enhance the gameplay experience, there are notable criticisms regarding the memorability of the tracks. Critics like Push Square and Areajugones highlighted the energetic and vibrant nature of the music, which effectively engages players, but others like ZTGD and SECTOR.sk pointed out that the soundtrack could benefit from more memorable compositions. This mixed feedback suggests that while the audio elements are generally well-received, there is room for improvement in creating standout musical moments that resonate with players long after their gaming sessions.

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

TLDR: Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons impresses with retro charm and solid mechanics on Xbox Series X and PC, but faces significant technical flaws on Nintendo Switch, including long load times and gameplay glitches. The PS5 version suffers similar loading issues, undermining its potential. Critics are divided; while some celebrate its nostalgic appeal, persistent problems leave a mixed impression across platforms.

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.

In analyzing the technical performance of Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons across various platforms, several positive aspects emerge. Critics like Generación Xbox noted that the game's technical elements, including music, sound effects, graphics, and localization, contribute to its retro charm on the Xbox Series X. This sentiment reflects a general appreciation for the nostalgic aesthetic and sound design that resonates well with fans of the genre. On the Nintendo Switch, TRG highlighted that the gameplay experience was fluid and responsive, suggesting that despite some technical issues, the core mechanics were well-executed. The PS5 version, while criticized for load times, still benefits from the advanced capabilities of the platform, which can enhance the overall experience when issues are not present. However, the negative aspects of the game's technical performance cannot be overlooked. On the Nintendo Switch, both Hardcore Gamer and SpazioGames pointed out significant issues such as long loading times and Joy-Con drift, which detract from the overall enjoyment of the game. NintendoWorldReport also raised concerns about characters getting stuck off-screen and enemies attacking from off-screen, indicating a lack of polish in the game's mechanics. For the PS5, both GameSkinny and PCMag echoed the sentiment regarding long load times, suggesting that even on more powerful hardware, performance issues persist. On the PC side, Destructoid expressed dissatisfaction with the game’s compatibility with arcade sticks, which may alienate a segment of the player base that prefers that control style. The overall consensus among critics is mixed, with a clear divide in experiences based on the platform. While the Xbox Series X and PC versions seem to have fewer reported issues, the Nintendo Switch version suffers from notable technical shortcomings that impact gameplay. The PS5, while capable of delivering a visually appealing experience, is hindered by long loading times that could frustrate players. Ultimately, while Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons showcases some retro charm and engaging gameplay across platforms, the technical performance, especially on the Switch and PS5, leaves room for improvement. Critics like Generación Xbox and TRG highlight the positives, but the recurring issues noted by others indicate that the game may not deliver a consistently polished experience across all platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons scores high on replay value, thanks to its rogue-lite elements and diverse character roster, as praised by multiple critics. The game's addictive gameplay, varied missions, and strategic decision-making keep players engaged. However, some worry about potential repetitiveness and limited content, particularly with no online multiplayer. Overall, it's a solid beat 'em up that invites multiple playthroughs for those seeking depth and variety, despite some criticisms on long-term engagement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

51%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

43%

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 rogue-lite elements and the variety it offers. Reviewers such as Gamers' Temple and Windows Central highlight the addictive gameplay and the extensive roster of characters to unlock, which significantly enhances the game's longevity. Generación Xbox also notes the enjoyable gameplay and the decisions that can affect the adventure's length, while Xbox Tavern emphasizes the variety of characters and unlockables that encourage replayability. The inclusion of different missions and the ability to tackle them in any order, as pointed out by Game Informer, further adds to the game's appeal, making it a worthwhile experience for fans of the beat 'em up genre. However, despite the positive aspects, several critics have raised concerns about the game's potential for repetitiveness. SECTOR.sk mentions that while the game offers strategic choices and dynamic mission selection, it may feel repetitive after multiple playthroughs. Worth Playing and Hardcore Gamer echo this sentiment, suggesting that while the game has replay value, many players might find themselves satisfied before unlocking all characters or experiencing all content. Additionally, some critics, like IGN and PlayStation LifeStyle, point out that the limited number of main missions and lack of online multiplayer could detract from long-term engagement and replayability. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons possesses significant replay value due to its rogue-lite mechanics, unlockable characters, and varied gameplay experiences. While there are concerns about repetitiveness and the limited scope of content, the game is generally seen as a strong addition to the beat 'em up genre, particularly for those who enjoy replaying games to explore different strategies and character combinations. Critics like XboxAddict and COGconnected affirm that the game's design encourages multiple playthroughs, making it an engaging experience for players looking for depth and variety.

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 the game for its engaging gameplay and nostalgic appeal. Reviewers like Gamers' Temple and Generación Xbox highlight the game's addicting nature and excellent soundtrack, while also noting the successful blend of classic and modern elements. The character variety and replay value are frequently mentioned as standout features, with Windows Central calling it one of the best modern entries in the beat 'em up genre. Critics such as XboxEra and Xbox Tavern emphasize that the game modernizes the franchise while respecting its roots, making it a worthy addition for both new players and long-time fans. However, several reviewers point out notable shortcomings that detract from the overall experience. The lack of online co-op is a common complaint, as noted by Gamers' Temple and XboxAddict, which some feel limits the game's potential for social play. Visual design and music quality are also criticized, particularly by SECTOR.sk, who believes the game falls short in these areas. Additionally, some players report issues with repetitiveness and a lack of depth, with critics like Metro GameCentral and Game Informer mentioning frustrating design choices and uneven difficulty spikes that can hinder enjoyment. Despite the mixed aspects, the overall consensus among critics is that Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons is a commendable return for the franchise. Many agree that it successfully captures the essence of classic beat 'em ups while introducing enough new elements to keep it fresh. Critics like Hardcore Gamer and Everyeye.it commend the game for its nostalgic yet innovative approach, making it a must-play for fans of the genre. While some reviewers express reservations about certain design flaws and gameplay depth, the majority still recommend the game, particularly for its replayability and engaging combat mechanics, indicating a solid reception within the gaming community.

TL;DR

Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons lands a solid punch with its engaging gameplay and nostalgic flair, winning over critics for blending classic and modern elements. Despite notable strengths like character variety and replayability, it suffers from a lack of online co-op, mixed visual design, and some repetitiveness. Overall, it’s a commendable return to form for the franchise, appealing to both newcomers and long-time fans, though some design flaws hold it back from greatness. A must-play for beat 'em up enthusiasts, but be ready for a few bumps along the way.

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

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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