Release Date: June 1993
Developer: Rare
Released in June 1993 for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), "Battletoads & Double Dragon" was a collaborative effort between two iconic franchises: Rare's Battletoads and Technos Japan's Double Dragon. Developed by Rare and published by Tradewest, this crossover game brought together the best of both worlds, offering an unforgettable experience for fans of classic beat 'em up games. In this review, we'll delve into the game's strengths, gameplay mechanics, and its enduring appeal to gamers.
A Fusion of Two Beloved Universes
"Battletoads & Double Dragon" took two beloved franchises with distinct gameplay styles and fused them into one memorable gaming experience. The game's storyline revolves around the Battletoads, Zitz, Rash, and Pimple, teaming up with Double Dragon's Billy and Jimmy Lee to thwart the evil plans of the nefarious Dark Queen and the Shadow Warriors gang. This mashup of characters and villains from both series added depth to the narrative and gave players a chance to play as their favorite heroes.
Gameplay Mechanics
The gameplay in "Battletoads & Double Dragon" is a quintessential beat 'em up affair. Players take control of one of five characters (two Battletoads and three Double Dragon characters) and traverse various side-scrolling levels filled with enemies and bosses. The game allows for both cooperative and competitive multiplayer modes, adding a layer of excitement for friends and family to enjoy together.
What sets "Battletoads & Double Dragon" apart is its variety of gameplay styles. In addition to the standard beat 'em up levels, players are treated to thrilling bike racing segments, space battles, and even a level where you transform into a giant mech. These diversions keep the gameplay fresh and engaging throughout the adventure.
Graphics and Sound
Considering the hardware limitations of the NES, "Battletoads & Double Dragon" managed to deliver impressive graphics. The character sprites are detailed, and the backgrounds are well-designed, capturing the essence of both franchises. The game's colorful visuals are a treat for the eyes and showcase the developers' dedication to creating an immersive gaming experience.
The soundtrack is another standout feature of the game. Composed by David Wise, the music in "Battletoads & Double Dragon" is catchy, atmospheric, and perfectly complements the on-screen action. Each level has its own unique musical theme, adding depth to the overall gaming experience.
Cheat Codes:
"Battletoads & Double Dragon" had several cheat codes that could be entered at the title screen to unlock various benefits and secrets:
1. Infinite Lives: To gain infinite lives, enter the code "Up, Up, Down, Down, A, B, B, A, Start" at the title screen. This cheat was a lifesaver for players struggling with the game's high difficulty.
2. Sound Test: Input "B, A, Right, B, A, Right, B, A, Right" at the title screen to access the sound test menu, where you could listen to the game's music and sound effects.
3. Stage Select: If you wanted to skip ahead or replay specific levels, enter "A, B, B, A, A, A, B, B, A, Start" at the title screen to access the stage select menu.
4. Extra Continues: To increase your number of continues, input "Up, Up, Down, Down, B, A, B, A, Start" at the title screen.
Enduring Appeal
Even decades after its release, "Battletoads & Double Dragon" continues to hold a special place in the hearts of retro gamers. Its combination of two beloved franchises, varied gameplay mechanics, and impressive graphics and music make it a standout title on the NES. The cooperative multiplayer mode is especially enjoyable, allowing friends to team up to tackle the game's challenging levels.
Finale-o-rama
"Battletoads & Double Dragon" on the NES is a nostalgic trip down memory lane for fans of both franchises and beat 'em up enthusiasts. Released in 1993 and developed by Rare, this crossover game successfully blended the worlds of Battletoads and Double Dragon, offering a diverse gameplay experience, memorable graphics, and a fantastic soundtrack. If you're looking to relive the golden era of gaming or introduce a new generation to classic beat 'em up action, this title is a must-play.
