Double Dragon (USA, Europe)

Double Dragon stands as one of the most influential and genre-defining titles in video game history, establishing the blueprint for side-scrolling beat-'em-up action that countless games would follow. Released in 1987 by Technos Japan, Double Dragon captivated arcade-goers with its urban combat, varied move set, and compelling two-player cooperative gameplay. As one of the most iconic retro games of the late 1980s, Double Dragon's impact extended beyond arcades to home consoles, where it became a must-have title that helped define the NES era of gaming.

What makes Double Dragon particularly special is its perfect balance of accessible controls with a surprisingly deep combat system for its time. Double Dragon introduced mechanics that would become staples of the genre, including weapon pickups, environmental hazards, and specialized attacks unlocked through directional inputs combined with the attack button. The memorable journey of brothers Billy and Jimmy Lee through gang-infested streets to rescue Marian created a simple but effective narrative framework that perfectly complemented the straightforward but satisfying gameplay that made Double Dragon an instant classic.

Double Dragon's influence on gaming cannot be overstated, essentially creating the template for the beat-'em-up genre that would flourish in arcades and on home consoles throughout the late 1980s and early 1990s.

While many retro games have been forgotten with time, Double Dragon's iconic status has led to numerous sequels, spin-offs, and even a feature film.

The franchise's enduring appeal lies in the simple satisfaction of its combat and the cooperative gameplay that made Double Dragon a social experience, elements that continue to influence fighting games and side-scrolling action titles to this day.