Game:

Double Dragon (1987)

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Double Dragon for the Genesis/MD is one the closest adaptations of the original Arcade game released back in 1987, published by Ballistic and developed by Software Creations. Ironically, Double Dragon 3 was also released in the same year and also developed by the same team, but I can confidently say that they did a better job with this conversion (and probably spent more time on it too) than they did with DD3. Part of this is owed to the fact that the first DD was a much simpler game from a technical standpoint, but what also makes this game better is the gameplay, where hits actually connect most of the time and fighting is a simple affair. There are some differences from the Arcade game like environmental details, character speed, screen view (the only real downer as you have to basically be at the edge... you get used to it, but it's just a bad idea) and the computer has the same psychic "reading your every move" trait (again, same developer), but the game is a breeze to play and with the exception of the game's (actually challenging) final level and final boss, you never really feel cheated. The game is an uncommon title for the system (collectibilty-wise).

Just like the original game, Billy and Jimmy Lee fight their way through the Black Warriors turf to rescue their love interest, Marian. The game is comprised of four levels, supports two player co-op, and features simple beat-em-up characteristics such as various punches, kicks, and throws in which you can combat enemies with. You can also pick up several weapons, which differ in strength or reach. Just like the arcade game, if two people finish the game together, you will fight each other to see who wins Marian's affection. The game looks and sounds respectable given the hardware; it could be better, but succeeds in replicating much of the original game's feel. In classic hardcore Sega style, the game was not censored out the wazoo, even allowing you to see Marian's undergarments as she's hauled off by the bad guys.

The game has some occasional bugs, though they are not common (falling through a floor, missing the game's one integral jump segment even when you should succeed, boxes that you drop in a corner blipping to the opposite end of the screen, etc.), though you may see one in these videos. It's not particularly difficult and can be completed in under twenty minutes if you're good, but it's a nice port for Double Dragon fans. Just like DD3, the game has no credits or additional info upon completing the game, which is... a little lame. This is a video of the game in action. Enjoy.