♣Game for Double Dragons 2

"Prepare to beat down on opponents like no other game before."
One of the most memorable beat-em-up fighting games that came into the existence of the gaming world has been the Double Dragon series. Ever since its early introduction into the arcades and the NES, it was noted for its uncanny gameplay and breathtaking action. Whether you'd perform a jump kick, launch a devastating uppercut, or knee your opponent's face - it all provided a thrilling experience. Double Dragon II was by far the best out of the three games on the NES, and it showed in nearly all departments. The basic storyline of DD2 continues as the streets of modern cities are being filled with gangs. An attack by the notorious Shadow Warriors ends up killing Marian, Billy's Girlfriend, and thus, they decide to get revenge. Of course, don't expect any friendly welcome. This is one of the best beat-em-up genre fighting games you'll play for the NES. The ease of controls, numerous enemies, and multiple levels will provide for a path to greatness.

Graphics [8/10]
As with any side scrolling platform action game, there needs to be some decency amongst the graphics in order to give the player a sense of realism. Double Dragon 2 does just that as many levels and stages have extremely well colored backgrounds. Cities are so detailed that you can nearly see a woman showering in an apartment window. Forests have trees with slight grooves and impressions. There are sewer grates on cement roads, or conveyor belts in a factory. Most of the beautiful backgrounds that DD have been noted for are quite visible in its sequel. Billy and Jimmy still look like tough guys, complete with their blocking stances and smooth animations. You can tell the difference from a left or right punch simply by the way his body twists. Enemies have different styles of attacking, and flips/jumps look more realistic rather than a balloon lofting in the air.

Sprites still flash when multiple enemies get on screen, and this can be a nuisance when you're trying to punch someone in the face. Sometimes you'll sort of glitch into the side of something, which can be both strange and unusual. Details on most enemies is noticeable, but it seems like faces tend to get shaded out so there's no real facial expression. However, framerate is very smooth and you don't have to worry about tear n' jerk fighting animations. For the most part, Double Dragon II brings back the memorable and colorful graphics we look for in most Nintendo games.