Info about Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise Of The Dragons:

Official game description:
DISCORD
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Release date: Jul 27, 2023

Categories: Beat 'em up, Local Multiplayer, Character-based Combat, Roguelike, Character Collection, Combo System, Multiple Endings

Feature scans:
- MTX: score 5; verdict: Fair Monetization - No Predatory Practices; summary: The reviews show no evidence of real-money monetization. The game features an in-game currency and a token-based revive system that cannot be bypassed with real money. Players also praise the free updates and even request paid DLC, indicating a lack of greed. The only negative comment is a subjective quality complaint about the game being a 'cash grab', which lacks specific monetization claims.
- Steam Deck: score 75; verdict: Playable but marred by controller and stability issues; summary: The game is enjoyable and runs well on Steam Deck through Proton, but it suffers from broken controller support and occasional stability problems like black screens and stuck characters. These issues are particularly problematic for a split-screen co-op title, significantly increasing friction despite its portable appeal.

- Hardware Profile: No data
Feature extractions:
- Community Price:
  - Community fair range: $5.00 - $15.00
  - Reasoning: Multiple reviews state that the full $25 price is excessive, while discounts in the $6-$10 range are considered fair or even a steal. Some explicitly suggest $10-15 as the correct price point, and others find $6 a fair price, indicating a community consensus that the base game should be priced well below the $25 full price, likely in a $5-$15 range.
- Playtime Metrics:
  - Game completion: 4.5h
  - Story completion: 2.0h
  - Session length: 1.5h
  - Endgame: N/A
  - Reasoning: The evidence directly gives playtime numbers: one full playthrough of the story is about 1.5–2 hours (quotes 1, 3, 4). Completing the game's main content, which includes multiple runs or endings, is reported as 4–5 hours (quote 2). The per-run time of 1.5 hours (quote 3) supports a typical session length. No specific endgame activity duration (like survival or post-completion grind) is quantified, so endgame remains null.
- Time-to-fun:
  - Summary: The game is fun immediately for most players, with addictive combat and accessible controls. Some players experience a slow start or online co-op bugs, but the core gameplay is enjoyable from the outset.
  - Stance: Fun immediately
  - Anchor: N/A
  - Time to anchor: N/A
  - Friction: Combat starts slow for some players; Online co-op doesn't work or is buggy; Second controller setup is tedious; Roguelite run structure can feel tedious
  - Unlock drivers: Getting the hang of combat
  - Conditions: Playing in local co-op; Avoiding online co-op due to bugs; Being a fan of beat 'em up genre; Focusing on killing multiple enemies at once; Having patience for repetitive levels
- Player Archetypes:
  - Nostalgic Double Dragon Veteran (sale)
    - Motivation: Relive classic Double Dragon memories and see if a modern remake can capture the old-school spirit.
    - Playstyle: Plays like the old arcade iterations, expects familiar movements and callbacks, and often compares the art style and pacing to the original series.
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: sale
    - Labels: fan of the original series; old Double Dragon player
    - Reference games: N/A
  - Genre-Depth Connoisseur (buy)
    - Motivation: Master complex combat systems, experiment with character synergies, and find underappreciated depth in the genre.
    - Playstyle: Deliberate and technical, focusing on positioning, grab combos, special moves, and comparing mechanics to other beat 'em up titles.
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: beat 'em up fan
    - Reference games: Streets of Rage 4; TMNT; Marvel Cosmic Invasion; Fight'N Rage
  - Local Co-op Enthusiast (buy)
    - Motivation: Enjoy fun and memorable cooperative sessions with friends or family, especially through local multiplayer.
    - Playstyle: Teams up locally, coordinates attacks and character switches, and appreciates the dynamic tag system for variety.
    - Experience: mixed
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: N/A
    - Reference games: Streets of Rage 4
  - Casual Newcomer (sale)
    - Motivation: Easy, accessible fun without steep learning curves, suitable for short sessions or family play.
    - Playstyle: Button mashing, low-difficulty settings, short playthroughs, and a focus on casual enjoyment rather than mastery.
    - Experience: newcomer
    - Purchase stance: sale
    - Labels: newcomer; beginner
    - Reference games: N/A


Below are summaries of things people say about the game per category.
Each point is assigned a weight that represents how often it is mentioned across all reviews.
What players like:
- Many unlockable characters available (weight 0.73): Players consistently praise the large number of unlockable characters, including bosses, each with distinct abilities and playstyles. This variety significantly enhances replayability and is a standout feature of the game.
- Game is highly enjoyable (weight 0.61): Overall, the game is described as fun, addictive, and well-made, with engaging gameplay that works smoothly. It offers good value for its price and is generally considered an excellent game.
- High replayability value (weight 0.41): The game offers high replayability due to unlockable characters, multiple endings, changing level orders, and roguelike elements. Each playthrough feels different, encouraging repeated play.
- Best modern Double Dragon (weight 0.31): Many reviewers consider this the best Double Dragon game to date, praising it as a loving tribute to the franchise with improved combat and modern twists. It is seen as a great addition to the series.
- Combat is satisfying (weight 0.29): The combat system is described as solid, smooth, and satisfying, with impactful mechanics that are fun and varied. Players appreciate the simplicity and pleasant feel of the combat.
- Excellent co-op experience (weight 0.22): Local co-op, especially with the tag feature, is highly praised and enhances the fun, making it ideal for playing with friends. It is considered one of the best co-op experiences in recent years.
- Nostalgic soundtrack praised (weight 0.19): The remixed soundtrack of classic Double Dragon melodies is well-received, adding to the nostalgic appeal. The music is considered good and on point for the franchise.
- Adjustable difficulty sliders (weight 0.15): The inclusion of five adjustable difficulty sliders makes the game accessible to all skill levels, allowing players to customize the challenge to their preference. This feature is highlighted as a standout.
- Pixel graphics are appealing (weight 0.14): The pixel art style is praised as beautiful and well-animated, complementing the retro beat 'em up vibe. It adds to the overall charm and nostalgia of the game.
- Online multiplayer supported (weight 0.12): The game supports both local co-op and online matchmaking, with online functionality working well. This expands the multiplayer options beyond couch co-op.

Common complaints:
- Game too short (weight 0.31): Multiple reviewers note the game's short length, finishing in 2-3 hours or less. The brevity reduces replayability and perceived value.
- Gameplay repetitive (weight 0.19): Enemies and gameplay loops become monotonous quickly, especially in story mode and replays. This reduces long-term engagement.
- Price too high (weight 0.19): The game is considered overpriced for its content, especially given the short length and limited replay value. Many feel it's not worth the full price.
- Online co-op broken (weight 0.17): Online co-op either doesn't work or is completely missing, with only local play available. This severely hampers the multiplayer experience.
- Too few levels (weight 0.15): The campaign has only 4-5 stages, which feels insufficient for a full game. Reviewers want more level diversity and content.
- Lacks Double Dragon essence (weight 0.14): Several players feel the game doesn't capture the classic Double Dragon look, charm, or combat mechanics. It feels more like a generic brawler than a true sequel.
- Roguelike elements unnecessary (weight 0.12): Players find the roguelike mechanics forced and irrelevant for a beat 'em up, and the tag misleading. This design choice detracts from the core gameplay.
- Stiff animations (weight 0.07): Character animations are described as stiff and not fluid, hurting the visual polish and feel of combat.
- Tedious unlock grind (weight 0.07): Unlocking characters requires excessive grinding with tokens, making progression feel tedious and unrewarding.

Gameplay feedback:
- Genre is beat 'em up (weight 0.4): The game is consistently described as a beat 'em up, specifically in the style of classic arcade titles like Double Dragon. It features side-scrolling action with roguelike elements and retro-inspired gameplay.
- Multiplayer and co-op support (weight 0.39): The game offers both local and online multiplayer, including co-op modes for up to four players. This is a major feature highlighted across multiple reviews, emphasizing both couch co-op and online play.
- Roguelike mechanics present (weight 0.37): The game incorporates roguelike or roguelite elements, such as randomized upgrades and changing run conditions. This adds replayability and varies the gameplay experience between runs.
- Unlockable character roster (weight 0.3): Many characters are locked and can be unlocked through progression, often using in-game tokens or by completing the game. The roster includes over 20 characters, many of which are bosses.
- Diverse playable characters (weight 0.25): Players can choose from a large roster of characters, each with unique movesets, special moves, and gameplay mechanics. The game emphasizes character variety and distinct playstyles.
- Token-based unlock system (weight 0.21): Tokens earned through gameplay can be spent to unlock characters, art, music, and other content. This system drives progression and rewards player engagement.
- Dynamic level order (weight 0.2): The order in which levels are played affects the run, with different mini-bosses and boss variations appearing based on player choices. This system encourages replayability and strategic planning.
- Adjustable difficulty settings (weight 0.18): The game offers extensive difficulty customization, allowing players to tweak enemy health, aggression, upgrade costs, and more. This makes the game accessible to a wide range of skill levels.
- Character switching mechanic (weight 0.14): Players can select two characters and switch between them mid-fight to continue combos or escape dangerous situations. This adds a strategic layer to combat.
- Survival mode available (weight 0.14): A survival mode is included, featuring waves of progressively tougher enemies. This mode provides an additional challenge after completing the main story.
- Combo system implemented (weight 0.11): The game features a combo system with many available combos for each character. This encourages players to experiment with different attack strings and special moves.
- Unique character specials (weight 0.09): Each character has unique ultimate moves, SP moves, and special skills, adding depth to combat. Bosses also have distinct abilities, making each encounter memorable.
- Arcade-style presentation (weight 0.08): The game is often described as an arcade-style brawler with a modern take on the classic Double Dragon formula. This appeals to fans of retro beat 'em ups.

Performance notes:
- FPS drops reported (weight 0.06): Players experience FPS drops at random moments during gameplay, despite some reporting smooth performance. This inconsistency suggests optimization issues under certain conditions.
- Smooth on specific hardware (weight 0.05): Some players report flawless 60 FPS performance on mid-range laptops, including a Ryzen 5 2500u with RX 560x and MacBook Air. These reports indicate the game can run well on modest hardware, contradicting performance complaints.
- Frequent crashes (weight 0.03): One player reports that the game crashes frequently, indicating stability issues that can disrupt gameplay. This is a serious concern for player satisfaction.
- Softlock bug encountered (weight 0.03): A specific softlock bug was reported where an enemy clipped out of bounds and became unkillable, preventing progression. This is a critical gameplay-breaking issue.
- FPS capped at 60 (weight 0.03): One player noted the game's frame rate is capped at 60 FPS, which may limit performance on higher-refresh-rate displays. This cap could be a deliberate design choice or a technical limitation.
- Low PC requirements (weight 0.03): The game is noted to have low system requirements, making it accessible to a wide range of players. This is a positive aspect, but may also contribute to performance variability.
- No bugs experienced (weight 0.03): One player explicitly reported encountering no bugs, suggesting that the game's stability can be acceptable for some users. This counterbalances reports of crashes and glitches.

Recommendations:
- Recommended for beat 'em up fans (weight 0.4): Many reviewers highly recommend the game for fans of beat 'em up games, including both experts and newcomers to the genre. It is seen as a standout title that can be enjoyed by casual and hardcore players alike.
- Best value when on sale (weight 0.39): A significant number of reviewers advise purchasing the game during a sale or at a discounted price. It is frequently described as great value when discounted, but not necessarily worth the full price.
- Positive general recommendation (weight 0.23): Some reviewers give a straightforward, positive recommendation without specific caveats. They suggest the game is worth the time and money for a broad audience.
- Appeals to Double Dragon nostalgia (weight 0.21): The game is particularly recommended for fans of the classic Double Dragon series and nostalgic players. Reviewers mention it is a must-have for series fans, though some suggest tempered expectations.
- Great in local co-op (weight 0.07): Reviewers specifically recommend playing the game in local co-op mode. Playing together with a friend enhances the experience.
- Avoid for online co-op (weight 0.05): Some reviewers explicitly advise against buying the game if you intend to play online with friends because the online co-op functionality does not work properly.

Other player notes:
- Comparisons to classic beat 'em ups (weight 0.57): Reviewers frequently compare this game to classic and modern beat 'em ups like Double Dragon, Streets of Rage 4, and TMNT: Shredder's Revenge. It is seen as a nostalgic but modernized take on the genre, though some consider it weaker than its rivals.
- Nostalgic Double Dragon homage (weight 0.42): The game is explicitly tied to the Double Dragon franchise and is praised for capturing the feel of the original arcade games while offering modern gameplay. It is considered a love letter to the series with a fresh coat of paint.
- Frequent free content updates (weight 0.36): The game receives continuous post-launch support, including free updates, DLC packs, new characters, and online co-op. Reviewers highlight the developers' dedication and appreciate that all additional content is free.
- Price and value concerns (weight 0.27): The game is often described as short (about one hour of gameplay) and not worth its full price, but a good value when bought on sale or in a bundle. Reviewers recommend waiting for a discount due to the length-to-price ratio.
- Stronger than Double Dragon Neon (weight 0.22): Compared to the previous Double Dragon game (Neon), reviewers find this title's graphics and overall presentation more appealing. It is considered an improvement over its predecessor.
- Mixed reception compared to rivals (weight 0.22): Some reviewers find the game pales in comparison to Streets of Rage 4, River City Girls, and TMNT: Shredder's Revenge. It is often considered a solid entry but not the best in the genre.
- Content-rich post-release support (weight 0.16): The developers continue to release patches and free content, showing long-term commitment to the game. This support has been noted as a step in the right direction.
- Double Dragon spin-off identity (weight 0.14): The game is clearly a spin-off of the Double Dragon series, with the River City aesthetic applied. This blend is seen as a creative take on both franchises.
- Potential for long-term engagement (weight 0.13): With continuous updates and free DLC, the game has potential for extended playtime. Reviewers note the developers' ongoing support as a reason to revisit the game.
- Steam Deck compatibility praised (weight 0.08): Reviewers note the game runs well on the Steam Deck, making it a good portable option for beat 'em up fans. This adds to its overall accessibility and convenience.
- Multiple story endings available (weight 0.08): The story mode offers multiple endings depending on the order of levels or player choices, adding replayability. This feature is highlighted as a positive aspect of the game's narrative design.
- Large character roster via DLC (weight 0.08): With free DLC, the game features over 20 playable characters, with some versions offering up to 24. Reviewers appreciate the variety and unlockable content without extra cost.
- Online co-op added post-launch (weight 0.07): Online co-op was introduced in a free post-launch update and works without major issues. This feature was initially missing but is now available, enhancing the multiplayer experience.
- Modernized classic genre formula (weight 0.07): The game updates the classic beat 'em up formula with modern controls and visuals while retaining the nostalgic feel of 80s arcade games like Double Dragon. It is described as more than a simple reskin.
- No required paid DLC (weight 0.07): All unlockable content is available through free DLC or gameplay, with no paid expansions required. Reviewers praise this model for being player-friendly.
- Achievements and playtime content (weight 0.06): The game offers at least 20 hours of content or 20 achievements, depending on the reviewer's perspective. This suggests moderate replayability beyond the main story.

Emotions:
- Enjoyment (weight 0.14): Players frequently cite the fun and addictive gameplay, especially in co-op, as the primary source of enjoyment. The retro pixel art, music, and satisfying combat with good hit feedback also contribute significantly. The variety of characters and unlockable content, along with the roguelike elements, add to the replayability and overall fun.
- Frustration (weight 0.14): The predominant causes of frustration are technical issues, including clunky controls, bugs like invisibility, crashes, and broken online co-op. Combat problems such as lack of knockdown protection, stun locks, and poor hitboxes also frustrate players. Additionally, unbalanced difficulty, repetitive level grinding, and the lack of customizable controls contribute to the negative experience.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.11): Satisfaction stems from the highly impactful combat system, with special KOs, grab combos, and chaining abilities providing a sense of gratification. The game's fluid performance, responsive controls, and faithful adherence to the Double Dragon franchise's quality also please players. Unlockable content and regular free updates enhance long-term satisfaction.
- Disappointment (weight 0.1): Players are disappointed by the short campaign, limited number of levels, and the perceived lack of content relative to the price. Technical issues, especially broken online co-op, and the game's deviation from the classic Double Dragon essence also contribute. The art style and roguelike implementation are criticized for not meeting expectations.
- Nostalgia (weight 0.07): The game evokes strong nostalgia by reminding players of classic Double Dragon games from their childhood, with references to arcade halls and Famicom memories. The music, art style, and general feel transport players back to the 1980s and 90s. Playing co-op with family members further enhances these nostalgic feelings.
- Excitement (weight 0.06): The excitement is driven by the satisfying combat, special combo stacking, and the variety of unlockable characters with unique abilities. The roguelike elements and constant updates add anticipation for new content. Players are also excited by the game's high replayability and the thrill of discovering new techniques.
- Frustrated (weight 0.05): This emotion is similar to Frustration but emphasizes additional issues like clunky character movement, broken multiplayer, and save problems. Boss fights with super armor and cheap deaths are particularly irritating. The lack of permanent upgrades and the repetitive nature of stages also contribute to the frustration.
- Appreciation (weight 0.04): Players appreciate the developer's dedication through free updates, additional characters, and continued support. The game's homage to the Double Dragon franchise with deep-cut references and well-executed mechanics is recognized. The inclusion of unlockable content without DLC and the solid hit feedback are also positively received.
- Disappointed (weight 0.03): This emotion focuses on unmet expectations regarding the roguelike system, story, and combat depth. The game is criticized for being too short, lacking permanent upgrades, and having clunky movement even after patches. Misleading marketing and high price for the content also lead to disappointment.
- Admiration (weight 0.03): Admiration is expressed for the game's high quality, detailed pixel art, and music production. Players appreciate the care given to each character's unique mechanics and the game's status as the best Double Dragon title to date. The developer's ongoing free DLC and updates also earn respect.
- Surprise (weight 0.02): Players are pleasantly surprised by the game's depth and enjoyment, often exceeding expectations set by initial screenshots or nostalgia. The faithful reconstruction with improved aspects and the unexpected quality of combat contribute. Added characters and gameplay depth are also noted as positive shocks.
- Joy (weight 0.01): Joy is derived from the game exceeding expectations, being more fun than the original, and evoking childhood memories. Playing co-op, especially with children, adds to the joy. The satisfying combat and rewarding progression also bring delight.
- Enthusiasm (weight 0.01): Enthusiasm is fueled by the game's high replayability, unique runs, and status as a top-tier beat 'em up. Players are excited about the addictive gameplay, responsive controls, and constant free content. The modernized take on the classic formula is highly praised.
- Satisfied (weight 0.01): Satisfaction comes from the game's excellent hit impact, multiple modes, and good value for the price. Players are pleased that the combat feels right, with grappling returning and varied moves. The balance and adjustable difficulty also contribute to a positive experience.
- Boredom (weight 0.01): Boredom arises from the repetitive combat, gameplay, and enemies that become monotonous after a few playthroughs. The focus on multi-kills and grinding for characters leads to tedium. Repeating levels and stages also contributes to the lack of engagement.
- Excited (weight 0.01): Excitement is driven by the many unlockables, mixable upgrades, and the innovative tag system that create fresh gameplay. The addictive nature after initial adjustment and the ability to perform special KOs on multiple enemies add to the thrill. Players are also excited about the game's quality as one of the best beat 'em ups of the year.
- Confusion (weight 0.01): Confusion is caused by unclear mechanics, such as enemies having damage priority during special moves and the complex input combinations for skills. Players also find it hard to distinguish identical characters in co-op. The lack of explanation for certain features like R control adds to the confusion.
- Delight (weight 0.01): Delight is derived from the ability to play as beloved characters like Abobo and the game's cohesive system that works well together. The many free updates and the quality of music, sprites, and combat bring joy. The respectful remixed soundtrack also enhances the experience.
- Annoyed (weight 0.01): Annoyance stems from interface issues like full-screen food close-ups blocking the view and the inability to continue without money. The controls feel messy, with user settings ignored in some menus. The character roster also disappoints, with many feeling boring compared to the starter.
- Desire (weight 0.01): Players express a desire for more content, specifically wishing for additional levels and factions to fight. This is driven by the game's short length and the desire to have more depth in combat encounters. The wish for more stages indicates a positive engagement with the core mechanics.}