Difference between revisions of "Double Dragon"

From Sega Retro
m (Text replacement - "{{company|Tec Toy|region=BR|system=SMS}}" to "{{company|Tec Toy|region=BR|system=SMS}} {{company|Samsung|region=KR|system=SMS}}")
 
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:''For the 1993 [[Game Gear]] game by [[Virgin Interactive]], see [[Double Dragon (Game Gear)]].''
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{{OtherPage|desc=the [[Sega Game Gear]] game|page=Double Dragon (Game Gear)}}
 
{{Bob
 
{{Bob
 
| bobscreen=DoubleDragon MD title.png
 
| bobscreen=DoubleDragon MD title.png
−
| publisher={{MD}} [[Ballistic]], {{SMS}} [[Sega]]
+
| bobscreen2=DoubleDragon SMS Title.png
−
| developer={{MD}} [[Accolade]], {{SMS}} [[Sega]]
+
| tab1=Mega Drive
−
| system=[[Sega Mega Drive]], [[Sega Master System]]
+
| tab2=Master System
−
| usa={{MD}} 1993, {{SMS}} 1988
+
| publisher={{company|[[Sega]]|system=SMS}}
−
| europe={{MD}} 1993, {{SMS}} 1988
+
{{company|[[Ballistic]]|system=MD}}
−
| japan={{SMS}} 01 October, 1988
+
| developer={{company|[[Arc System Works]]{{ref|https://web.archive.org/web/20151009104108/http://www.famitsu.com/news/201510/09086051.html}}|system=SMS}}
−
| rrp_jp=5,500 {{SMS}}
+
{{company|[[Accolade]]|system=MD}}
−
| romsize={{SMS}} 256kB
+
| distributor={{company|[[Tonka]]|system=SMS|region=US, later printings}}
−
| genre=Action
+
{{company|[[Ecofilmes]]|region=PT|system=SMS}}
−
| vrc=
+
{{company|[[Tec Toy]]|region=BR|system=SMS}}
 +
{{company|[[Samsung]]|region=KR|system=SMS}}
 +
| licensor=[[Technos Japan]], [[Tradewest]]  
 +
| system=[[Sega Master System]], [[Sega Mega Drive]]
 +
| sounddriver={{MD}} [[Sound Images v1.0]]
 +
| peripherals={{SMS}} [[FM Sound Unit]]
 +
| players=1-2
 +
| genre=Action{{ref|https://web.archive.org/web/20190621034428/https://sega.jp/history/hard/segamark3/software.html}}, Arcade{{fileref|DoubleDragon SMS EU noR cover.jpg}}
 +
| originaldevelopers=[[Technos]]
 +
| originalsystem=Arcade boards
 +
| releases={{releasesSMS
 +
| sms_date_jp=1988-10-01{{ref|https://web.archive.org/web/20190621034428/https://sega.jp/history/hard/segamark3/software.html}}
 +
| sms_code_jp=G-1369
 +
| sms_rrp_jp=5,500
 +
| sms_date_us=1988-11{{magref|ce|7.09|13}}
 +
| sms_code_us=7012
 +
| sms_date_eu=1988
 +
| sms_code_eu=MK-7012-50
 +
| sms_date_uk=1989-01{{fileref|BristolEveningPost UK 1989-01-13 Page 82.jpg}}
 +
| sms_code_uk=MK-7012-50
 +
| sms_rrp_uk=22.95{{magref|cvg|86|175}}<!--29.99{{magref|segapower|23|41}} 24.95{{magref|gamesmachineuk|14|75}}-->
 +
| sms_date_br=19xx
 +
| sms_date_kr=1988-10
 +
| sms_code_kr=GB-1369
 +
| sms_date_au=19xx
 +
| sms_date_pt=1991
 +
| sms_code_pt=MSJ7012
 +
| sms_date_se=19xx
 
}}
 
}}
 +
{{releasesMD
 +
| md_date_us=1992-04{{magref|gamepro|32|48}}
 +
| md_code_us=ACLD009
 +
| md_rrp_us=39.95{{magref|gamepro|32|48}}<!--49.95{{magref|vgce|42|44}}-->
 +
| md_date_us_vgc=199x
 +
| md_date_eu=1992
 +
| md_code_eu=ACLD009
 +
| md_date_uk=1992-05-06{{magref|ctw|383|19}}<!--1992-04-29{{magref|segapro|7|7}}-->
 +
| md_code_uk=ACLD009
 +
| md_rrp_uk=29.99{{magref|segapro|7|12}}{{magref|segapower|29|12}}
 +
}}
 +
| otherformats={{NonSega|Arcade|Amiga|CPC|2600|7800|ST|C64|IBMPC|GB|GBA|LYNX|MSX|NES|Spectrum}}
 +
}}
 +
'''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' (ダブルドラゴン) is a beat-'em-up by [[Technos]] released for the arcades in 1987. It is considered a spiritual sequel to Technos's previous hit ''[[Renegade]]''. The original arcade game was a blockbuster success and established a number of conventions that would define the beat-'em-up genre, serving as a precursor to later games in the genre such as ''[[Final Fight]]'' and ''[[Streets of Rage]]''. The game was ported to several consoles and home computers since its original arcade release, including to [[Sega]] consoles twice: the first time was for the [[Sega Master System|Master System]] by Sega themselves in 1988, and later for the [[Sega Mega Drive|Genesis]] in 1992 by [[Accolade]].
 +
 +
==Story==
 +
Near the end of the 20th century, violence ruled the streets of New York City after the nuclear war and people began forming gangs to survive. On the outskirts of the city lived twin brothers named Jimmy and Billy Lee. The brothers used to run a martial arts school in the centre of the city which was burned down to ashes five years ago as a result of the nuclear war. Despite this, the brothers did not neglect their training for even a day.
 +
 +
The younger brother, Billy, was romantically involved with a female instructor named Marian, but Jimmy was secretly in love with her as well. One day, Marian was abducted by the Black Warriors, a savage street gang led by a man named Willy Mackey. The gang gradually grew in size after the nuclear war and they are now dominant organization of the city.
  
−
'''''Double Dragon''''' (ダブルドラゴン) is a game that was developed by [[Accolade]] on the [[Sega Mega Drive|Mega Drive/Genesis]] and by [[Sega]] on the [[Sega Master System]]. The Mega Drive version was published in 1993 by [[Ballistic]] and the Master System version was published by Sega in 1988. It is a action game based off a popular arcade game.
+
The Lee brothers set out to confront the Black Warriors and rescue Marian.
  
 
==Gameplay==
 
==Gameplay==
−
The game takes place over four levels ending at the final boss, Willy. The first player is Billy and the second controls Jimmy. The characters are able to punch, kick, and perform a variety of moves by using combinations of the available buttons. The Mega Drive version has a jump button while the Master System version only allows jumping through button combinations. Weapons found throughout the level can be picked up and used against opponents. Weapons that can be used include bats, whips, barrels (not in Master System version), boxes, rocks, knifes, and sticks of dynamite.
+
===Master System version===
 +
''Double Dragon'' is a belt-scrolling beat-'em-up, meaning that the ground is depicted from a titled perspective that allows movement sideways as well as vertically (in and out of the plane). The game can be played by up to two players simultaneously, with the first player controlling Billy Lee (who wears a blue outfit) and the second player controlling his twin brother Jimmy (in red). The objective of the game is to defeat every enemy from one area to the next until reaching the end of the stage and defeating a boss. The second player can join the game at any point (except during the last stage) by pressing {{1}} on the control pad.
 +
 
 +
The brothers can move in any direction using the D-Pad. They punch with {{2}} and kick with {{1}}. Using the same attack repeatedly performs a combo that ends by knocking the opponent down. They can do an elbow smash that hits enemies behind them by holding the D-Pad in the opposite direction that they are facing while pressing {{2}}. They can headbutt opponents with {{left}}{{left}} or {{right}}{{right}}. They can grab downed opponents and knee smash them with {{1}} or throw them with {{2}}. The characters can perform a flying jump kick by pressing {{1}}+{{2}} while moving with the D-Pad. Or they can perform a leaping reverse kick (a jumping kick in the opposite direction that they are facing) by pressing {{1}}+{{2}} when standing in place. These jump kicks are sometimes necessary to jump onto platforms in some stages.
 +
 
 +
In addition to their hand-to-hand techniques, the brothers can equip numerous weapons, which are found on the ground or dropped by enemies when they are knocked down. Weapons can be picked up with {{2}} when standing over them and used with {{2}} (replacing the punch). Weapons include whips and bats, which are swung at opponents and give the characters increased reach, and knives and dynamite, which are thrown at enemies. The characters can also pick up and throw large objects such as drums or rocks.
 +
 
 +
The brothers have health meters consisting of five segments and lose a segment whenever they take damage from an opponent. They lose a life if they take damage without any health remaining but revive in place after a moment if the player has extra lives remaining. There are also some basic platforming sections in which characters can lose a life if they fall off the stage. Each player starts the game with three lives, and players also start the final stage with three lives regardless of how many they had before. Players earn an extra life for every 30,000 points collected. The game ends if the player runs out of lives. The player has a limited amount of time to press {{1}} to continue the game (resetting the score) after running out of lives. The game has unlimited continues, except for the last stage, which cannot be continued.
 +
 
 +
====Stages====
 +
{{InfoTable|imagewidths=256|
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=The Slums
 +
| screenshot=Double Dragon SMS, Stage 1-1.png
 +
| screenshot2=Double Dragon SMS, Stage 1-2.png
 +
| screenshot3=Double Dragon SMS, Stage 1-3.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| map=DoubleDragon-SMS-TheSlums.png
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=The Factory District
 +
| screenshot=Double Dragon SMS, Stage 2-1.png
 +
| screenshot2=Double Dragon SMS, Stage 2-2.png
 +
| screenshot3=Double Dragon SMS, Stage 2-3.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| map=DoubleDragon-SMS-TheFactoryDistrict.png
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=The Park
 +
| screenshot=Double Dragon SMS, Stage 3-1.png
 +
| screenshot2=Double Dragon SMS, Stage 3-2.png
 +
| screenshot3=Double Dragon SMS, Stage 3-3.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| map=DoubleDragon-SMS-ThePark.png
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=The Black Warriors Headquarters
 +
| screenshot=Double Dragon SMS, Stage 4-1.png
 +
| screenshot2=Double Dragon SMS, Stage 4-2.png
 +
| screenshot3=Double Dragon SMS, Stage 4-3.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| map=DoubleDragon-SMS-TheBlackWarriorsHeadquarters.png
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
===Mega Drive version===
 +
The game is a belt-scrolling beat-'em-up played as one or both of the Lee brothers. It can be started as a two-player game, or another player can join during gameplay by pressing {{Start}}.
 +
 
 +
The brothers move sideways with {{left}} and {{right}} as well as towards or away from the background with {{up}} and {{down}}. They jump with {{A}}. Stages sometimes contain platforming sections (such as jumping over gaps). Some stages contain ladders or fences in the background that can be climbed with {{up}} and {{down}}.
 +
 
 +
The brothers punch with {{C}} and kick with {{A}}. The basic attacks consists of a left-right punch combo and a kick. After a couple of punches or a single kick, the enemy is stunned. During this period, the player can follow it up with an uppercut, a roundhouse kick, or a head grab (depending on the enemy type). During a head grab, the player can repeatedly kick an enemy with their knees with {{A}} or throw him to the other side with {{C}}. Some enemies can also be grabbed from behind during two-player mode, allowing the other player to attack them. Characters can elbow smash foes behind them with {{B}}+{{C}}. They can perform a jump kick by jumping with {{B}} and pressing {{A}} if facing left or {{C}} if facing right. They can perform a jump kick by jumping with {{B}} and pressing {{A}} if facing left or {{C}} if facing right. Or they can perform a leaping reverse kick by jumping with {{B}} and pressing {{C}} if facing left or {{A}} if facing right. They can headbutt opponents with {{left}}{{left}} or {{right}}{{right}}.
 +
 
 +
There are also several types of weapons that are either found on the ground in certain areas or by disarming an armed enemy. Characters can pick up a weapon with {{C}} when standing near it and use the weapon with {{C}} (replacing punch). Certain large objects can also be kicked to the ground with {{A}}.
 +
 
 +
The brothers have health meters consisting of five segments and lose a segment whenever they take damage from an opponent. They lose a life if they take damage without any health remaining, fall off the stage, or run out of time but revive in place after a moment if the player has extra lives remaining. The timer starts over if the players get a time over. Players earn an extra life for every 30,000 points collected. The game ends if the player runs out of lives, but it can be continued if the players have credits remaining. Players have separate lives but share credits. The players can decide the number of starting lives and credits (2, 4, or 6) in the options before starting the game.
 +
 
 +
====Stages====
 +
{{InfoTable|imagewidths=320|
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=The City Slum
 +
| screenshot=Double Dragon MD, Stage 1-1.png
 +
| screenshot2=Double Dragon MD, Stage 1-2.png
 +
| screenshot3=Double Dragon MD, Stage 1-3.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=The Industrial Area
 +
| screenshot=Double Dragon MD, Stage 2-1.png
 +
| screenshot2=Double Dragon MD, Stage 2-2.png
 +
| screenshot3=Double Dragon MD, Stage 2-3.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=The Forest
 +
| screenshot=Double Dragon MD, Stage 3-1.png
 +
| screenshot2=Double Dragon MD, Stage 3-2.png
 +
| screenshot3=Double Dragon MD, Stage 3-3.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=The Hideout of the Shadow Boss
 +
| screenshot=Double Dragon MD, Stage 4-1.png
 +
| screenshot2=Double Dragon MD, Stage 4-2.png
 +
| screenshot3=Double Dragon MD, Stage 4-3.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
==Versions==
 +
===Master System version===
 +
The Master System version is a downscaled adaptation of the arcade game similar to the [[NES]] version released before it. While the character designs are pretty similar to the NES version, the Master System version retains the two-player co-op mode and features level designs much closer to the arcade game (albeit without the vertical scrolling and climbable ladders and fences in some areas). Because the arcade version used a three button setup (with a dedicated jump button), the input method of certain moves such as the flying jump kick, backward spin kick and elbow strike were changed to better accommodate the Master System's two button controls. The consecutive attacks (the uppercut and roundhouse kick) and the hair grab are also performed a bit differently. The Master System only displays up to three enemies and a single weapon on-screen at once. Stages are not timed in this version.
 +
 
 +
===Mega Drive version===
 +
In contrast, the Mega Drive version is a relatively straight port of the arcade with slight differences in graphics and sound. Most notably the backgrounds graphics are different, some of the character sprites (specifically Marian and Linda) are not 100% accurate, and the head-swapped boss characters (the mohawked version of Abobo at the end of Missions 1 and 3, and the Lee brother lookalike at the end of Mission 2) are replaced with plain palette swaps. While the arcade game presents itself as one continuous stage without interruption, the Mega Drive version, like other ports of the game, blackens the screen between stages.
 +
 
 +
===Localised names===
 +
{{aka
 +
|en_name=Double Dragon
 +
|us_name=Double Dragon
 +
|jp_name=ダブルドラゴン-双截龍
 +
|jp_trans=Double Dragon
 +
|br_name=Double Dragon
 +
|kr_name=더블드래곤
 +
|kr_trans=Double Dragon
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
==Production credits==
 +
===Master System version===
 +
{{creditstable|
 +
*'''Programmer:''' [[Minoru Kidooka]]{{ref|https://web.archive.org/web/20151009104108/http://www.famitsu.com/news/201510/09086051.html}}
 +
| source=Developer mentions
 +
| console=SMS
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
===Mega Drive version===
 +
{{creditstable|
 +
*'''Design and Programming:''' [[Tradewest]]
 +
*'''Producer:''' [[Chris Bankston]]
 +
*'''Testers:''' Robert Daly, Steve Graziano
 +
*'''Manual:''' Jeff Wagner
 +
| source=US manual
 +
| pdf=Double Dragon MD US Manual.pdf
 +
| pdfpage=2
 +
| console=MD
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
==Magazine articles==
 +
{{mainArticle|{{PAGENAME}}/Magazine articles}}
  
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==Levels==
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==Promotional material==
−
Levels include a slum, a industrial area, a forest, and the boss's lair. Level hazards include pitfalls, water, conveyor belts, poles which come out of walls (not in the Mega Drive version), and spikes.
+
{{gallery
 +
|{{gitem|MS TV advert NL.mp4|NL TV advert}}
 +
|{{gitem|SMS ES promo 3.jpg|ES advert (1990)}}
 +
|{{gitem|SMS ES promo 5.png|ES advert (1991)}}
 +
|{{galleryPrintAd
 +
|pixel|72|45|
 +
}}
 +
|{{galleryPrintAd
 +
|cvg|111|74
 +
|text=Master System print advert
 +
}}
 +
|{{galleryPrintAd
 +
|text=Mega Drive print advert
 +
|cvg|124|8-9
 +
|mm|18|66-67
 +
}}
 +
|{{galleryPrintAd
 +
|text=Mega Drive print advert
 +
|joypad|6|2-3
 +
}}
 +
|{{galleryPrintAd
 +
|gamepro|34|107
 +
|egm|41|39
 +
}}
 +
|{{gitem
 +
|Enisof a.s offer.png|Print advert in Excalibur (CZ) #12 (1992-09-01)
 +
}}
 +
}}
  
−
==Version Differences==
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==Physical scans==
−
The Mega Drive port is a straight forward port of the arcade with slight differences in graphics and sound. The enemies also easily mimic the players up and down movement, which can lead to some annoyance.
+
===Master System version===
 +
{{ratings|SMS}}
 +
{{Scanbox
 +
| console=Master System
 +
| region=JP
 +
| front=DoubleDragon SMS JP Box.jpg
 +
| cart=DoubleDragon SMS JP cart.jpg
 +
| manual=DoubleDragonSMSJPManual.pdf
 +
}}{{Scanbox
 +
| console=Master System
 +
| region=US
 +
| cover=DoubleDragon SMS US noR cover.jpg
 +
| manual=Doubledragon sms us manual.pdf
 +
}}{{Scanbox
 +
| console=Master System
 +
| region=US (® from Tonka variant)
 +
| cover=DoubleDragon SMS US Box.jpg
 +
| cart=DoubleDragon SMS US cart.jpg
 +
| manual=Doubledragon sms us manual.pdf
 +
}}{{Scanbox
 +
| console=Master System
 +
| region=EU
 +
| cover=DoubleDragon SMS EU noR cover.jpg
 +
}}{{Scanbox
 +
| console=Master System
 +
| region=EU (Sega®)
 +
| cover=DoubleDragon SMS EU Box.jpg
 +
| cart=Double Dragon SMS EU Cart.jpg
 +
}}{{Scanbox
 +
| console=Master System
 +
| region=EU (8 languages)
 +
| cover=DoubleDragon SMS EU 8lang cover.jpg
 +
}}{{Scanbox
 +
| console=Master System
 +
| region=PT
 +
| cover=DoubleDragon SMS PT cover.jpg
 +
| cart=
 +
| manual=
 +
}}{{Scanbox
 +
| console=Master System
 +
| region=SE
 +
| cover=
 +
| cart=
 +
| manual=
 +
}}{{Scanbox
 +
| console=Master System
 +
| region=AU (Hotline sticker)
 +
| cover=DoubleDragon SMS AU cover.jpg
 +
| cart=DoubleDragon SMS AU Cart.jpg
 +
| manual=DoubleDragonSMSAuManual.pdf
 +
}}{{Scanbox
 +
| console=Master System
 +
| region=AU (NIAL sticker)
 +
| cover=DoubleDragon SMS AU nial cover.jpg
 +
| cart=DoubleDragon SMS AU Cart.jpg
 +
}}{{Scanbox
 +
| console=Master System
 +
| region=AU (Bonus/hotline stickers)
 +
| cover=DoubleDragon SMS AU bonus cover.jpg
 +
| cart=DoubleDragon SMS AU Cart.jpg
 +
}}{{Scanbox
 +
| console=Master System
 +
| region=AU (Distributed by Ozisoft sticker)
 +
| cover=DoubleDragon SMS AU ozisoft cover.jpg
 +
| cart=
 +
}}{{Scanbox
 +
| console=Master System
 +
| region=AU (Classics)
 +
| cover=DoubleDragon SMS AU classics cover.jpg
 +
| cart=DoubleDragon SMS AU Cart.jpg
 +
}}{{Scanbox
 +
| console=Master System
 +
| region=BR (cardboard)
 +
| cover=DoubleDragon SMS BR2 Box.jpg
 +
| cart=DoubleDragon SMS BR2 Cart.jpg
 +
| manual=DoubleDragon SMS BR Manual.pdf
 +
}}{{Scanbox
 +
| console=Master System
 +
| region=BR
 +
| cover=DoubleDragon SMS BR cover.jpg
 +
| cart=DoubleDragon SMS BR cart.jpg
 +
| manual=DoubleDragon SMS BR Manual.pdf
 +
}}{{Scanbox
 +
| console=Master System
 +
| region=KR
 +
| front=
 +
| back=
 +
| spine=
 +
| cart=DoubleDragon SMS KR cart.jpg
 +
}}
  
−
The Master System version has slightly different controls due to the controller only having two buttons. Some parts of the levels are designed differently and extended. The mohawk Abobo is missing in this version. Unlimited continues are available up until the final stage (although unlimited continues can be attained in the final stage through a cheat).
+
===Mega Drive version===
 +
{{ratings|MD}}
 +
{{Scanbox
 +
| console=Mega Drive
 +
| region=US
 +
| front=DoubleDragon MD US Box.jpg
 +
| back=DoubleDragon MD US back.jpg
 +
| spinemissing=yes
 +
| cart=Doubledragon md us cart.jpg
 +
| manual=Double Dragon MD US Manual.pdf
 +
}}{{Scanbox
 +
| console=Mega Drive
 +
| region=US<br>(Video Game Classics)
 +
| front=DoubleDragon MD US Box Front Classic.jpg
 +
| back=DoubleDragon MD US vgc back.jpg
 +
| spinemissing=yes
 +
| cart=Double Dragon MD US VGC cart.jpg
 +
| manual=Double Dragon MD US Manual.pdf
 +
}}{{Scanbox
 +
| console=Mega Drive
 +
| region=EU
 +
| front=DoubleDragon MD EU front.jpg
 +
| back=DoubleDragon MD US back.jpg
 +
| spinemissing=yes
 +
| cart=Doubledragon md us cart.jpg
 +
| manual=Double Dragon MD EU Manual.jpg
 +
| item1=DoubleDragon MD EU pcb.jpg
 +
| item1name=PCB
 +
}}
  
−
==Physical Scans==
+
==Technical information==
−
==Mega Drive==
+
{{mainArticle|{{PAGENAME}}/Technical information}}
−
<gallery>
 
−
File:DoubleDragon MD US Box.jpg|US cover
 
−
</gallery>
 
−
==Master System==
 
−
<gallery>
 
−
File:DoubleDragon SMS US Box.jpg|US cover
 
−
File:DoubleDragon SMS EU Box.jpg|EU cover
 
−
File:DoubleDragon SMS JP Box.jpg|JP cover
 
−
</gallery>
 
  
 +
==References==
 +
<references/>
 +
 +
{{DoubleDragonOmni}}
 
{{DoubleDragon}}
 
{{DoubleDragon}}
−
 
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[[Category:Mega Drive Games]]
 
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[[Category:Mega Drive Action Games]]
 
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[[Category:1993 Mega Drive Games]]
 
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[[Category:Master System Games]]
 
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[[Category:Master System Action Games]]
 
−
[[Category:1988 Master System Games]]
 

Latest revision as of 13:25, 3 October 2024

For the Sega Game Gear game, see Double Dragon (Game Gear).

n/a

  • Mega Drive
  • Master System

DoubleDragon MD title.png

DoubleDragon SMS Title.png

Double Dragon
System(s): Sega Master System, Sega Mega Drive
Publisher:
Sega Master System
Sega
Sega Mega Drive
Ballistic
Developer:
Distributor:
Sega Master System
Tonka (US, later printings)
Sega Master System
Ecofilmes (PT)
Sega Master System
Tec Toy (BR)
Sega Master System
Samsung (KR)
Licensor: Technos Japan, Tradewest
Original system(s): Arcade boards
Developer(s) of original games: Technos
Sound driver:
Sega Mega Drive
Sound Images v1.0
Peripherals supported:
Sega Master System
FM Sound Unit
Genre: Action[2], Arcade[3]

















Number of players: 1-2
Release Date RRP Code
Sega Master System
JP 		¥5,5005,500 G-1369
Sega Master System
US 		7012
Sega Master System
EU 		MK-7012-50
Sega Master System
PT 		MSJ7012
Sega Master System
UK 		£22.9522.95[6] MK-7012-50
Sega Master System
SE
Sega Master System
AU
Sega Master System
BR
Sega Master System
KR 		GB-1369
Sega Mega Drive
US 		$39.9539.95[7] ACLD009
Sega Mega Drive
US
(Video Game Classics)
Sega Mega Drive
EU 		ACLD009
Sega Mega Drive
UK 		£29.9929.99[9][10] ACLD009
Non-Sega versions

Double Dragon (ダブルドラゴン) is a beat-'em-up by Technos released for the arcades in 1987. It is considered a spiritual sequel to Technos's previous hit Renegade. The original arcade game was a blockbuster success and established a number of conventions that would define the beat-'em-up genre, serving as a precursor to later games in the genre such as Final Fight and Streets of Rage. The game was ported to several consoles and home computers since its original arcade release, including to Sega consoles twice: the first time was for the Master System by Sega themselves in 1988, and later for the Genesis in 1992 by Accolade.

Story

Near the end of the 20th century, violence ruled the streets of New York City after the nuclear war and people began forming gangs to survive. On the outskirts of the city lived twin brothers named Jimmy and Billy Lee. The brothers used to run a martial arts school in the centre of the city which was burned down to ashes five years ago as a result of the nuclear war. Despite this, the brothers did not neglect their training for even a day.

The younger brother, Billy, was romantically involved with a female instructor named Marian, but Jimmy was secretly in love with her as well. One day, Marian was abducted by the Black Warriors, a savage street gang led by a man named Willy Mackey. The gang gradually grew in size after the nuclear war and they are now dominant organization of the city.

The Lee brothers set out to confront the Black Warriors and rescue Marian.

Gameplay

Master System version

Double Dragon is a belt-scrolling beat-'em-up, meaning that the ground is depicted from a titled perspective that allows movement sideways as well as vertically (in and out of the plane). The game can be played by up to two players simultaneously, with the first player controlling Billy Lee (who wears a blue outfit) and the second player controlling his twin brother Jimmy (in red). The objective of the game is to defeat every enemy from one area to the next until reaching the end of the stage and defeating a boss. The second player can join the game at any point (except during the last stage) by pressing 1 on the control pad.

The brothers can move in any direction using the D-Pad. They punch with 2 and kick with 1. Using the same attack repeatedly performs a combo that ends by knocking the opponent down. They can do an elbow smash that hits enemies behind them by holding the D-Pad in the opposite direction that they are facing while pressing 2. They can headbutt opponents with LeftLeft or RightRight. They can grab downed opponents and knee smash them with 1 or throw them with 2. The characters can perform a flying jump kick by pressing 1+2 while moving with the D-Pad. Or they can perform a leaping reverse kick (a jumping kick in the opposite direction that they are facing) by pressing 1+2 when standing in place. These jump kicks are sometimes necessary to jump onto platforms in some stages.

In addition to their hand-to-hand techniques, the brothers can equip numerous weapons, which are found on the ground or dropped by enemies when they are knocked down. Weapons can be picked up with 2 when standing over them and used with 2 (replacing the punch). Weapons include whips and bats, which are swung at opponents and give the characters increased reach, and knives and dynamite, which are thrown at enemies. The characters can also pick up and throw large objects such as drums or rocks.

The brothers have health meters consisting of five segments and lose a segment whenever they take damage from an opponent. They lose a life if they take damage without any health remaining but revive in place after a moment if the player has extra lives remaining. There are also some basic platforming sections in which characters can lose a life if they fall off the stage. Each player starts the game with three lives, and players also start the final stage with three lives regardless of how many they had before. Players earn an extra life for every 30,000 points collected. The game ends if the player runs out of lives. The player has a limited amount of time to press 1 to continue the game (resetting the score) after running out of lives. The game has unlimited continues, except for the last stage, which cannot be continued.

Stages

Double Dragon SMS, Stage 1-1.png

Double Dragon SMS, Stage 1-2.png

Double Dragon SMS, Stage 1-3.png

  • Double Dragon SMS, Stage 1-1.png

  • Double Dragon SMS, Stage 1-2.png

  • Double Dragon SMS, Stage 1-3.png

The Slums
Map: 1️⃣ 

Double Dragon SMS, Stage 2-1.png

Double Dragon SMS, Stage 2-2.png

Double Dragon SMS, Stage 2-3.png

  • Double Dragon SMS, Stage 2-1.png

  • Double Dragon SMS, Stage 2-2.png

  • Double Dragon SMS, Stage 2-3.png

The Factory District
Map: 1️⃣ 

Double Dragon SMS, Stage 3-1.png

Double Dragon SMS, Stage 3-2.png

Double Dragon SMS, Stage 3-3.png

  • Double Dragon SMS, Stage 3-1.png

  • Double Dragon SMS, Stage 3-2.png

  • Double Dragon SMS, Stage 3-3.png

The Park
Map: 1️⃣ 

Double Dragon SMS, Stage 4-1.png

Double Dragon SMS, Stage 4-2.png

Double Dragon SMS, Stage 4-3.png

  • Double Dragon SMS, Stage 4-1.png

  • Double Dragon SMS, Stage 4-2.png

  • Double Dragon SMS, Stage 4-3.png

The Black Warriors Headquarters
Map: 1️⃣ 

Mega Drive version

The game is a belt-scrolling beat-'em-up played as one or both of the Lee brothers. It can be started as a two-player game, or another player can join during gameplay by pressing  START .

The brothers move sideways with Left and Right as well as towards or away from the background with Up and Down. They jump with A. Stages sometimes contain platforming sections (such as jumping over gaps). Some stages contain ladders or fences in the background that can be climbed with Up and Down.

The brothers punch with C and kick with A. The basic attacks consists of a left-right punch combo and a kick. After a couple of punches or a single kick, the enemy is stunned. During this period, the player can follow it up with an uppercut, a roundhouse kick, or a head grab (depending on the enemy type). During a head grab, the player can repeatedly kick an enemy with their knees with A or throw him to the other side with C. Some enemies can also be grabbed from behind during two-player mode, allowing the other player to attack them. Characters can elbow smash foes behind them with B+C. They can perform a jump kick by jumping with B and pressing A if facing left or C if facing right. They can perform a jump kick by jumping with B and pressing A if facing left or C if facing right. Or they can perform a leaping reverse kick by jumping with B and pressing C if facing left or A if facing right. They can headbutt opponents with LeftLeft or RightRight.

There are also several types of weapons that are either found on the ground in certain areas or by disarming an armed enemy. Characters can pick up a weapon with C when standing near it and use the weapon with C (replacing punch). Certain large objects can also be kicked to the ground with A.

The brothers have health meters consisting of five segments and lose a segment whenever they take damage from an opponent. They lose a life if they take damage without any health remaining, fall off the stage, or run out of time but revive in place after a moment if the player has extra lives remaining. The timer starts over if the players get a time over. Players earn an extra life for every 30,000 points collected. The game ends if the player runs out of lives, but it can be continued if the players have credits remaining. Players have separate lives but share credits. The players can decide the number of starting lives and credits (2, 4, or 6) in the options before starting the game.

Stages

Double Dragon MD, Stage 1-1.png

Double Dragon MD, Stage 1-2.png

Double Dragon MD, Stage 1-3.png

  • Double Dragon MD, Stage 1-1.png

  • Double Dragon MD, Stage 1-2.png

  • Double Dragon MD, Stage 1-3.png

The City Slum

Double Dragon MD, Stage 2-1.png

Double Dragon MD, Stage 2-2.png

Double Dragon MD, Stage 2-3.png

  • Double Dragon MD, Stage 2-1.png

  • Double Dragon MD, Stage 2-2.png

  • Double Dragon MD, Stage 2-3.png

The Industrial Area

Double Dragon MD, Stage 3-1.png

Double Dragon MD, Stage 3-2.png

Double Dragon MD, Stage 3-3.png

  • Double Dragon MD, Stage 3-1.png

  • Double Dragon MD, Stage 3-2.png

  • Double Dragon MD, Stage 3-3.png

The Forest

Double Dragon MD, Stage 4-1.png

Double Dragon MD, Stage 4-2.png

Double Dragon MD, Stage 4-3.png

  • Double Dragon MD, Stage 4-1.png

  • Double Dragon MD, Stage 4-2.png

  • Double Dragon MD, Stage 4-3.png

The Hideout of the Shadow Boss

Versions

Master System version

The Master System version is a downscaled adaptation of the arcade game similar to the NES version released before it. While the character designs are pretty similar to the NES version, the Master System version retains the two-player co-op mode and features level designs much closer to the arcade game (albeit without the vertical scrolling and climbable ladders and fences in some areas). Because the arcade version used a three button setup (with a dedicated jump button), the input method of certain moves such as the flying jump kick, backward spin kick and elbow strike were changed to better accommodate the Master System's two button controls. The consecutive attacks (the uppercut and roundhouse kick) and the hair grab are also performed a bit differently. The Master System only displays up to three enemies and a single weapon on-screen at once. Stages are not timed in this version.

Mega Drive version

In contrast, the Mega Drive version is a relatively straight port of the arcade with slight differences in graphics and sound. Most notably the backgrounds graphics are different, some of the character sprites (specifically Marian and Linda) are not 100% accurate, and the head-swapped boss characters (the mohawked version of Abobo at the end of Missions 1 and 3, and the Lee brother lookalike at the end of Mission 2) are replaced with plain palette swaps. While the arcade game presents itself as one continuous stage without interruption, the Mega Drive version, like other ports of the game, blackens the screen between stages.

Localised names

Also known as
Language Localised Name English Translation
English Double Dragon Double Dragon
English (US) Double Dragon Double Dragon
Japanese ダブルドラゴン-双截龍 Double Dragon
Portuguese (Brazil) Double Dragon
Korean 더블드래곤 Double Dragon

Production credits

Master System version

Source:
Developer mentions


Mega Drive version

  • Design and Programming: Tradewest
  • Producer: Chris Bankston
  • Testers: Robert Daly, Steve Graziano
  • Manual: Jeff Wagner
Source:
US manual
Double Dragon MD US Manual.pdf
[11]


Magazine articles

Main article: Double Dragon/Magazine articles.

Promotional material

SMS ES promo 3.jpg
ES advert (1990)
SMS ES promo 3.jpg
SMS ES promo 5.png
ES advert (1991)
SMS ES promo 5.png
Logo-pdf.svg
Print advert in Pixel (GR) #72: "Dekémvrios 1990" (1990-xx-xx)
Logo-pdf.svg
Logo-pdf.svg
Master System print advert in Computer & Video Games (UK) #111: "February 1991" (1991-01-16)
Logo-pdf.svg
Logo-pdf.svg
Mega Drive print advert in Computer & Video Games (UK) #124: "March 1992" (1992-02-15)
also published in:
Logo-pdf.svg
Logo-pdf.svg
Mega Drive print advert in Joypad (FR) #6: "Mars 1992" (1992-02-1x)
Logo-pdf.svg
Logo-pdf.svg
Print advert in GamePro (US) #34: "May 1992" (1992-xx-xx)
also published in:
Logo-pdf.svg
Enisof a.s offer.png
Print advert in Excalibur (CZ) #12 (1992-09-01)
Enisof a.s offer.png

Physical scans

Master System version

Sega Retro Average 
Publication Score Source
{{{{{icon}}}|L}} Division by zero.
Based on
0 review
Sega Retro Average 
Publication Version Score
Complete Guide to Consoles (UK)
82
[14]
Complete Guide to Consoles (UK)
79
[15]
The Complete Guide to Sega (UK) PAL
85
[16]
Computer Action (DK)
75
[17]
Console XS (UK) PAL
70
[18]
Computer & Video Games (UK)
76
[6]
The Games Machine (UK)
81
[19]
Mean Machines Sega (UK)
70
[20]
Player One (FR)
77
[21]
Sega Power (UK) PAL
85
[22]
Sega Power (UK) PAL
50
[23]
Sega Pro (UK)
77
[24]
Sega Pro (UK) PAL
70
[25]
Tilt (FR)
75
[26]
Sega Master System
 75
Based on
14 reviews

Double Dragon

Master System, JP
DoubleDragon SMS JP Box.jpg
Cover
DoubleDragon SMS JP cart.jpg
Cart
DoubleDragonSMSJPManual.pdf
Manual
Master System, US
DoubleDragon SMS US noR cover.jpg
Cover
Doubledragon sms us manual.pdf
Manual
Master System, US (® from Tonka variant)
DoubleDragon SMS US Box.jpg
Cover
DoubleDragon SMS US cart.jpg
Cart
Doubledragon sms us manual.pdf
Manual
Master System, EU
DoubleDragon SMS EU noR cover.jpg
Cover
Master System, EU (Sega®)
DoubleDragon SMS EU Box.jpg
Cover
Double Dragon SMS EU Cart.jpg
Cart
Master System, EU (8 languages)
DoubleDragon SMS EU 8lang cover.jpg
Cover
Master System, PT
DoubleDragon SMS PT cover.jpg
Cover
Master System, SE

Master System, AU (Hotline sticker)
DoubleDragon SMS AU cover.jpg
Cover
DoubleDragon SMS AU Cart.jpg
Cart
DoubleDragonSMSAuManual.pdf
Manual
Master System, AU (NIAL sticker)
DoubleDragon SMS AU nial cover.jpg
Cover
DoubleDragon SMS AU Cart.jpg
Cart
Master System, AU (Bonus/hotline stickers)
DoubleDragon SMS AU bonus cover.jpg
Cover
DoubleDragon SMS AU Cart.jpg
Cart
Master System, AU (Distributed by Ozisoft sticker)
DoubleDragon SMS AU ozisoft cover.jpg
Cover
Master System, AU (Classics)
DoubleDragon SMS AU classics cover.jpg
Cover
DoubleDragon SMS AU Cart.jpg
Cart
Master System, BR (cardboard)
DoubleDragon SMS BR2 Box.jpg
Cover
DoubleDragon SMS BR2 Cart.jpg
Cart
DoubleDragon SMS BR Manual.pdf
Manual
Master System, BR
DoubleDragon SMS BR cover.jpg
Cover
DoubleDragon SMS BR cart.jpg
Cart
DoubleDragon SMS BR Manual.pdf
Manual
Master System, KR

DoubleDragon SMS KR cart.jpg
Cart

Mega Drive version

Sega Retro Average 
Publication Score Source
{{{{{icon}}}|L}} Division by zero.
Based on
0 review
Sega Retro Average 
Publication Version Score
1700 igr dlya Sega (RU)
60
[27]
Console XS (UK) PAL
72
[28]
Mean Machines: The Essential Sega Guide (UK)
30
[29]
GamePro (US) NTSC-U
84
[7]
Game Zone (UK) PAL
52
[30]
Joypad (FR) PAL
78
[31]
Joystick (FR) NTSC-U
71
[32]
Sega Mega Drive Advanced Gaming (UK)
31
[33]
Sega Mega Drive Advanced Gaming (UK) PAL
40
[34]
Sega Mega Drive Advanced Gaming (UK) PAL
40
[35]
Mega Action (UK)
82
[36]
MegaTech (UK) PAL
53
[37]
Mean Machines (UK)
59
[38]
Mean Machines Sega (UK)
59
[39]
Power Play (DE)
58
[40]
Sega Power (UK) PAL
13
[41]
Sega Pro (UK) PAL
72
[42]
Sega Pro (UK) PAL
72
[43]
Sega Force (UK) PAL
43
[44]
Tricks 16 bit (RU)
70
[45]
VideoGames & Computer Entertainment (US) NTSC-U
60
[46]
Video Games (DE)
54
[47]
Sega Mega Drive
 57
Based on
22 reviews

Double Dragon

Mega Drive, US
DoubleDragon MD US back.jpgNospine.pngDoubleDragon MD US Box.jpg
Cover
Doubledragon md us cart.jpg
Cart
Double Dragon MD US Manual.pdf
Manual
Mega Drive, US
(Video Game Classics)
DoubleDragon MD US vgc back.jpgNospine.pngDoubleDragon MD US Box Front Classic.jpg
Cover
Double Dragon MD US VGC cart.jpg
Cart
Double Dragon MD US Manual.pdf
Manual
Mega Drive, EU
DoubleDragon MD US back.jpgNospine.pngDoubleDragon MD EU front.jpg
Cover
Doubledragon md us cart.jpg
Cart
Double Dragon MD EU Manual.jpg
Manual
DoubleDragon MD EU pcb.jpg
PCB

Technical information

Main article: Double Dragon/Technical information.

References

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 http://www.famitsu.com/news/201510/09086051.html (Wayback Machine: 2015-10-09 10:41)
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 https://sega.jp/history/hard/segamark3/software.html (Wayback Machine: 2019-06-21 03:44)
  3. ↑ File:DoubleDragon SMS EU noR cover.jpg
  4. ↑ Computer Entertainer, "December 1988" (US; 1988-12-17), page 13
  5. ↑ File:BristolEveningPost UK 1989-01-13 Page 82.jpg
  6. ↑ 6.0 6.1 Computer & Video Games, "December 1988" (UK; 1988-11-xx), page 175
  7. ↑ 7.0 7.1 7.2 GamePro, "March 1992" (US; 1992-xx-xx), page 48
  8. ↑ Computer Trade Weekly, "" (UK; 1992-04-20), page 19
  9. ↑ Sega Pro, "May 1992" (UK; 1992-04-16), page 12
  10. ↑ Sega Power, "April 1992" (UK; 1992-03-05), page 12
  11. ↑ File:Double Dragon MD US Manual.pdf, page 2
  12. ↑ Mean Machines, "March 1992" (UK; 1992-02-27), page 66
  13. ↑ Electronic Gaming Monthly, "December 1992" (US; 1992-xx-xx), page 39
  14. ↑ Complete Guide to Consoles, "" (UK; 1989-10-16), page 54
  15. ↑ Complete Guide to Consoles, "Volume IV" (UK; 1990-11-xx), page 95
  16. ↑ The Complete Guide to Sega, "" (UK; 1991-05-xx), page 55
  17. ↑ Computer Action, "Juli/August 89" (DK; 1989-0x-xx), page 34
  18. ↑ Console XS, "June/July 1992" (UK; 1992-04-23), page 139
  19. ↑ The Games Machine, "June 1989" (UK; 1989-05-18), page 74
  20. ↑ Mean Machines Sega, "October 1992" (UK; 1992-09-xx), page 133
  21. ↑ Player One, "Février 1991" (FR; 1991-xx-xx), page 24
  22. ↑ Sega Power, "October 1991" (UK; 1991-09-05), page 41
  23. ↑ Sega Power, "October 1991" (UK; 1991-09-05), page 56
  24. ↑ Sega Pro, "December 1991" (UK; 1991-11-21), page 47
  25. ↑ Sega Pro, "April 1993" (UK; 1993-03-11), page 70
  26. ↑ Tilt, "Mars 1989" (FR; 1989-0x-xx), page 71
  27. ↑ 1700 igr dlya Sega, "" (RU; 2001-xx-xx), page 93
  28. ↑ Console XS, "June/July 1992" (UK; 1992-04-23), page 129
  29. ↑ Mean Machines: The Essential Sega Guide, "" (UK; 1993-11-18), page 39
  30. ↑ Game Zone, "May 1992" (UK; 1992-04-22), page 46
  31. ↑ Joypad, "Novembre 1992" (FR; 1992-1x-xx), page 48
  32. ↑ Joystick, "Novembre 1992" (FR; 1992-1x-xx), page 173
  33. ↑ Sega Mega Drive Advanced Gaming, "November 1992" (UK; 1992-xx-xx), page 79
  34. ↑ Sega Mega Drive Advanced Gaming, "December 1992" (UK; 1992-xx-xx), page 36
  35. ↑ Sega Mega Drive Advanced Gaming, "January 1993" (UK; 199x-xx-xx), page 91
  36. ↑ Mega Action, "June 1993" (UK; 1993-05-20), page 64
  37. ↑ MegaTech, "May 1992" (UK; 1992-04-20), page 52
  38. ↑ Mean Machines, "April 1992" (UK; 1992-03-28), page 64
  39. ↑ Mean Machines Sega, "October 1992" (UK; 1992-09-xx), page 138
  40. ↑ Power Play, "6/92" (DE; 1992-05-13), page 149
  41. ↑ Sega Power, "June 1992" (UK; 1992-05-07), page 30
  42. ↑ Sega Pro, "May 1992" (UK; 1992-04-16), page 34
  43. ↑ Sega Pro, "April 1993" (UK; 1993-03-11), page 65
  44. ↑ Sega Force, "June 1992" (UK; 1992-05-14), page 32
  45. ↑ Tricks 16 bit, "Tricks Sega Gold 800 igr" (RU; 1998-03-20), page 52
  46. ↑ VideoGames & Computer Entertainment, "July 1992" (US; 1992-0x-xx), page 44
  47. ↑ Video Games, "6/92" (DE; 1992-05-29), page 50


Double Dragon

DoubleDragon MD title.png

Main page | Comparisons | Maps | Hidden content | Magazine articles | Reception | Region coding | Technical information | Bootlegs


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Double Dragon games for Sega systems
Sega Master System
 Double Dragon (1988)
Sega Mega Drive
 Double Dragon II: The Revenge (1991) | Double Dragon (1992) | Double Dragon 3: The Rosetta Stone (1992/1993) | Battletoads/Double Dragon: The Ultimate Team (1993) | Double Dragon V: The Shadow Falls (1994)
Sega Game Gear
 Double Dragon (1993)
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