Double Dragon II - The Revenge (USA) (Rev 1)

Double Dragon II - The Revenge is a classic action beat 'em up game on the NES, serving as a direct sequel to the original Double Dragon. The story picks up immediately after the first game's conclusion, but instead of a happy ending, Marian – Billy Lee's girlfriend – is tragically shot and killed by Willy, the leader of the Shadow Warriors. This devastating event propels brothers Billy and Jimmy Lee into a perilous quest for revenge.

The gameplay of Double Dragon II - The Revenge retains its side-scrolling action roots but introduces significant improvements over its predecessor. Players control one of the Lee brothers (or both in co-op mode) as they navigate through various stages, confronting countless enemies. The combat system underwent a notable change: there are no longer separate punch and kick buttons. Instead, players have two attack buttons that depend on the character's facing direction: one button attacks forward, and the other attacks backward. This allows for more fluid combos and diverse tactical approaches.

The game introduces several new and powerful special moves. For instance, players can execute the 'Cyclone Kick' by jumping and pressing an attack button, or an 'Uppercut' by pressing both attack buttons simultaneously. These moves are not only visually impressive but also highly effective for crowd control. Furthermore, the game retains the element of utilizing weapons picked up from enemies or the environment, including knives, whips, barrels, and even dynamite.

Enemies in Double Dragon II - The Revenge are diverse, ranging from basic thugs, female assassins, to imposing giants and challenging bosses. Each enemy type possesses unique attack patterns and weaknesses, requiring players to adapt their strategies accordingly. The two-player cooperative mode is a significant highlight, allowing two players to progress through the stages together. However, the game maintains a "friendly fire" mechanic, meaning players can accidentally or intentionally hit their partner, leading to humorous situations or requiring precise coordination.

The stages are intricately designed with various traps and obstacles, spanning from dark city streets and dilapidated warehouses to helicopter battles and mysterious caves. The game's difficulty is quite high, demanding players to practice and master their moves. Double Dragon II - The Revenge is highly acclaimed for its graphics, sound, and especially its improved gameplay, cementing its status as one of the most iconic action games on the NES and a true symbol of the beat 'em up genre.