Few games define the early beat 'em up genre on the Nintendo Entertainment System quite like Double Dragon II: The Revenge. Released in 1989 by Technōs Japan, this sequel wasn't just a simple port of the arcade hit; it was a completely different beast tailored for the home console, offering a distinct experience that etched itself into the memories of a generation of gamers.
While the arcade version had its fans, the NES iteration of The Revenge took the core premise – brothers Billy and Jimmy Lee seeking vengeance for the death of Marian at the hands of the Shadow Warriors – and built something unique around it. It became a million-seller, a testament to its popularity and impact on the console.
More Than Just an Arcade Port
Unlike the first Double Dragon on NES, which significantly altered the arcade game and lacked simultaneous two-player co-op, Double Dragon II: The Revenge NES embraced the cooperative spirit. This was a game you could finally tackle side-by-side with a friend right from the start (though watch out for the optional friendly fire mode!).
Beyond co-op, the NES version diverged wildly from its arcade counterpart after the initial stage. Players were treated to entirely new levels, including memorable sequences inside a helicopter and even an undersea base. This wasn't just a scaled-down arcade experience; it was a reimagining with its own narrative flow across nine distinct stages, complete with cutscenes (simple, but effective for the time) before each mission.
Kicking, Punching, and... Directional Attacks?
The core gameplay retained the directional combat system from the arcade, meaning your attack button performed different moves depending on which direction you were facing relative to the enemy. Facing right and pressing 'A' might do a standard punch, while facing left might execute a back elbow. This system was... unique, and honestly, it could feel a bit clunky or confusing at times, especially compared to later, more refined beat 'em ups.
However, The Revenge also introduced some cool new moves to the Lee brothers' repertoire, like the powerful Hyper Uppercut and the Flying Knee Kick, both executable from a crouching position. Mastering these, along with the classic jump kicks and throws, was key to surviving the streets, factories, and mysterious lairs the Shadow Warriors inhabited.
Enemies were familiar faces from the arcade, but often with altered behaviors or weapons. The NES version also introduced new sub-bosses and ninja types, keeping players on their toes. You'd typically face off against two enemies at a time, always of the same type, a limitation of the NES hardware that was common for the genre. Weapons like bats and knives would appear but disappear along with the enemy carrying them once defeated.
The Revenge's Unique Challenges
One aspect that defined the Double Dragon II NES experience was its controversial difficulty gating. While there were three difficulty settings (Easy, Medium, Hard), only the hardest setting allowed you to play through all nine stages and reach the true final boss and ending. Easy ended after stage three, and Medium after stage eight. This design choice certainly encouraged players to push their limits!
Platforming sections, particularly in later stages like Mission 6, could also be surprisingly tricky, adding a different kind of challenge beyond just brawling. These moments, combined with the often relentless enemy waves and the sometimes-unpredictable directional attacks, made The Revenge a genuinely tough game that demanded practice and patience.
NES vs. The World (Briefly)
While the NES version is arguably the most iconic home release in the West, it's worth noting slight differences existed. The Japanese Famicom version, for instance, allowed players to see the entire game on any difficulty setting and included a standard continue option, whereas the NES version required a cheat code to continue. Later, a PC Engine Super CD-ROM² version was released in Japan, based on the NES game but featuring enhanced graphics, a remade soundtrack, voice-acted cutscenes, and revamped combat.
For modern players, the NES version has seen re-releases on Nintendo's Virtual Console services over the years and was included as part of the Nintendo Switch Online classic games library, making it accessible to a new generation.
Why We Still Remember The Revenge
Despite its quirks – the directional attacks, the difficulty lock-out, the sometimes frustrating platforming – Double Dragon II: The Revenge holds a special place in retro gamers' hearts. It delivered a compelling revenge story (for its time), challenging beat 'em up action, and crucially, simultaneous two-player co-op that created countless hours of shared memories on the living room floor.
It might not be the most polished beat 'em up ever made, and some aspects haven't aged perfectly, as noted by players revisiting it today. Yet, its distinct levels, memorable boss fights (especially the unique NES final boss!), and fantastic soundtrack contribute to a classic NES vibe that's hard to replicate. It represents a key moment in the evolution of the genre on home consoles.
Revisit the Streets
Want to relive the glory (and frustration!) of Double Dragon II: The Revenge NES?
- Nintendo Switch Online: If you have a subscription, check the NES library – it's often included!
- Virtual Console: Owners of older Nintendo consoles (Wii, 3DS, Wii U) might find it available for purchase there.
- Original Hardware: Dust off that old NES and cartridge if you're lucky enough to still have them!
FAQ
- Is Double Dragon II: The Revenge on NES the same as the arcade game? No, the NES version shares the title and basic plot but has completely different level designs, enemies, and a unique final boss compared to the 1988 arcade game.
- Does the NES version have 2-player co-op? Yes! Unlike the first Double Dragon on NES, The Revenge supports simultaneous two-player cooperative gameplay.
- How do I see the true ending in the NES version? You must complete the game on the "Hard" difficulty setting. The Easy and Medium difficulties end the game early.
- Are the controls different from other beat 'em ups? Yes, it uses a directional attack system where the move performed depends on which way your character is facing relative to the enemy, which can take some getting used to.
Double Dragon II: The Revenge on the NES is more than just a sequel; it's a unique chapter in the saga of Billy and Jimmy Lee, offering a challenging and memorable beat 'em up experience that stands apart from its arcade sibling. It's a classic that, despite its age and quirks, is well worth revisiting for a dose of pure retro brawling nostalgia.
