Double Dragon Neon (PC) Review

That's Double Dragon Neon, from WayForward Technologies - a reimagining of the original arcade Double Dragon, one of the early pivotal arcade games that defined the beat 'em up genre. Double Dragon Neon doesn't stray far from the core design of its source material. In fact, it reveres it, going so far as keeping the slow, deliberate movement speed of the original game - a choice that at first feels strange in this day of instant gratification gaming, packed full of cut-scenes and QTEs.

Double Dragon Neon goes further than just mimicry, though, because after it nails the feel of the original classic, it intelligently and thoughtfully expands the core design. Upgradable movesets and stances provide an addictive quality and much needed variety to the experience. Modern ideas such as air juggles and two-in-one combos flesh out the simple kick-punch gameplay into something much more engaging. So, a very simple brawler is transformed into... well, a simple brawler that's a hell of a lot of fun.

Double Dragon Neon doesn't transform the gaming landscape. It's not supposed to. What it's supposed to be is a damn good remake of Double Dragon. And it is. The game design is always thoughtful. One can see the mind of the designer behind the pacing of levels, the design of enemy encounters, the careful placement of traps and weapons, and the takes on silly 80s action movies such as with the rocket knives (themselves an excellent challenge that tests and improves the player's understanding of the game mechanics).

The rest of the game accompanies the gameplay well. The artwork is thoughtful, carefully reworking Jimmy and Billy, Williams and Abobo, and all the rest into some impressive 3D models. It's work that looks cartoon quality, with supreme textures and animation. Hand drawn backgrounds also look good, usually, from city streets to dojo temples, though a couple of minor issues (odd perspective issues, 3D models on 2D layers) cause distraction. Then there is the soundtrack, by gods the soundtrack...