Double Dragon III - The Sacred Stones (USA)

Double Dragon III - The Sacred Stones is a classic beat 'em up action game for the NES, continuing the saga of the Lee brothers. Unlike previous installments, the game introduces new and challenging gameplay mechanics. Players take on the roles of Billy Lee or Jimmy Lee, embarking on a global journey to find five Sacred Stones to prevent an ancient threat.

One of the most notable aspects of Double Dragon III - The Sacred Stones is its shop system. Players can use money earned from defeating enemies to purchase items such as weapons (chains, nunchaku), new skills (e.g., the spinning kick), or even hire additional support characters (like Chin Seimei, Ranzou, or even Abobo) to assist in combat. Each support character has their own unique fighting style and abilities, adding strategic depth.

The combat system retains the series' signature style, featuring punches, kicks, and jumps. However, the game significantly increases the difficulty, requiring players to be more tactical in each encounter. Enemies are diverse, ranging from street thugs to highly skilled martial artists. Levels take players through various global locations such as Egypt, Japan, Italy, and China, each with unique challenges and bosses.

While receiving mixed reviews regarding its difficulty and some mechanical changes, Double Dragon III - The Sacred Stones remains a significant part of the Double Dragon franchise's history, offering a unique experience for beat 'em up enthusiasts.