Super Double Dragon

"The Best Double Dragon Game, Ever!"

"Super Double Dragon" returns on the SNES for another beat'em up adventure. Though this is a review on the import I use to own, which is titled, "Return Of Double Dragon". Would the fans of Double Dragon praise this game after the disappointing NES series? You bet, this game is the best Double Dragon ever and it's one of my favorite SNES titles of all time.

Gameplay 9/10 - The classic arcade gameplay returns and it fits perfectly for the SNES. You can punch, kick, jump and counter. That's right, I said COUNTER. The countering system lets you counter basic enemy punches but blocks kicks. If you manage to counter most punches, you would grab their arm and mash the punch or kick button to give'em a big taste of your knuckles or boots.

Also, there is a new rage system. The rage system lets you fill up by holding the L or R button. When your meter passes over 50%, you're able to perform a spin kick or spin punch by holding any shoulder button and press Y (punch) or A (kick). But if your meter touches to 100%, it'll start flashing and your character will change it's stance and looking pissed off. Now you can take huge amount of damage by throwing a hard punch or hard kick until the rage lasts for a couple of seconds.

However, there is only at least two major disadvantage. The levels feel repetitive later on, since there are very small amount of variety enemies and bosses. Another disadvantage is some minor loading, especially starting the game.

Unlike the US version, the Japanese version actually has an options setting, where you can set to 9 credits and change difficulty settings. The US version was set at HARD mode, though the Japanese was set at NORMAL but you can set it to EASY or HARD.

GFX 8/10 - The graphics are pretty smooth and detailed for an SNES beat'em up. The sprites are good but not realistic though it fits the style. The backgrounds are nice, especially Las Vegas in the first level. The only bad thing about the graphics are some recycled enemies later on in the game and the framerate. Yes, the framerate jumps deep due to detailed, animated backgrounds and a number of character/enemy sprites. But if you're moving part by part in a stage, you will notice that the game only runs silky smooth when the screen fades out.

Sound 9/10 - The sound effects are great, though they sound muffled but it gives an old school feel. There also some voices in it, but it's all yelling, and screaming, which is a nice addition. The music is not bad, there is alot of remixed songs from the first Double Dragon game. The original theme is even in there as the "Press Start" screen, which is only present in the Japanese version.

Value 8/10 - There's no unlockables whatsoever. What makes this game even fun is the 2 Player Mode A or B. I recommend Mode A because you don't wanna do "Friendly Attacks" in Mode B or else they'll lose their health.

The Final 9/10 - Like I said earlier, it's the best Double Dragon game, EVER. Despite the boring plot, the game is just fun for parties. It's a must-buy!

Reviewer's Score: 9/10, Originally Posted: 11/27/06