Double Dragon Overview
Double Dragon is a martial arts action game set in a post-apocalyptic version of New York City. The player controls one of the Lee brothers, Billy or Jimmy, who operate a self-defense school. Their primary objective is to rescue Billy's girlfriend Marian, who has been abducted by the Black Warriors gang under the leadership of Willy.
Gameplay involves moving through various environments, including a city slum, an industrial zone, and a forest, to reach the gang's hideout. Characters utilize a range of combat techniques from basic punches and kicks to more powerful moves like an elbow strike. They can also employ weapons found during the journey. The progression is challenging, requiring players to defeat numerous gang members across these areas before a final confrontation.
Beyond the main rescue mission, certain versions include a separate versus fighting mode. In the NES release, this mode allows one or two players to select from a roster of six characters, including protagonists and enemies, for one-on-one battles where health bars must be depleted. The Atari 2600 version offers a simpler two-player match restricted to Billy and Jimmy Lee.