"Double Dragon 2: The Revenge" in 1988 left so-so impressions. On the one hand, this is a classic of the beat 'em up genre, familiar and beloved by many. However, the pace of the game feels too slow: the characters move quite slowly (to put it mildly), which affects the overall dynamics and sense of rhythm. Expectations from the action suggest a high pace and adrenaline, but there is clearly not enough of it here. Even in the moments of lively battles, the movement of the characters and their reactions seem somewhat delayed, which reduces the overall tension of the gameplay.
As for the graphics, it also leaves a double impression. At the time of release, the game looked good, but playing it already in the mid-1990s, you realize that this is a weak game: character animations are scarce, and the environment is made with minimal details. The backgrounds and levels, although reflecting the surroundings of streets and factories, look flat and monotonous, which somewhat reduces immersion in the game world.
It is worth noting that "Double Dragon 2" stands out for its attack system, which is unusual and adds a tactical element to the battles. There are two main strike buttons in the game: one for left strikes, the other for right strikes. Such mechanics allow the player to focus on enemies coming from different sides, and brings variety to the approach to battles. Sometimes you can get confused about what you're pushing, who you're trying to hit and get over it, but the feature is generally interesting. In addition, there are a number of techniques in the arsenal, from simple punches and kicks to powerful attacks, such as turntables, which diversify the gameplay and allows the player to experiment with combo strikes to develop their strategy.
The plot seems to continue the story of the first part, telling about the revenge of the main character for the kidnapping and death of his beloved. Although the narrative here does not differ in depth, it well supports the fighting spirit and immersion in the atmosphere of the 1980s, characteristic of the classics of the beat 'em up genre. But who pays attention to the plot in childhood. We must go and smash the villains.
Enemies get stronger with each level, and players encounter bosses that are quite difficult to defeat. Overall, although the game may seem slow and graphically weak, its atmosphere and unusual attack system are still remembered. But in general, the game turned out to be a bummer for me at the time.
6 out of 10.
