Documented for this version

Which controls does this version use?

Actions

Double Dragon action controls
Arrow LeftArrow Right
Move left or right
Arrow Up
Move upward on the playfield
Arrow Down
Move downward on the playfield
A
Punch
B
Kick
AB
Jump

Press both buttons together.

Start
Start or pause the game

Combos and sequences

Double Dragon combo and sequence controls
AB
Jump

Simultaneous input on the NES controller.

Control notes

  • The game is primarily a single-player NES adaptation.

How it plays

How does Double Dragon play?

The game uses a side-scrolling perspective. Billy advances through a sequence of stages, defeats groups of enemies, collects dropped weapons, and reaches a boss at the end of each area.

Players can walk, jump, punch, kick, grab enemies, and use weapons such as bats, whips, and knives. Enemies can be attacked from either side, while hazards and ledges make positioning important. Defeated bosses do not provide a persistent upgrade system; progression comes from completing stages and learning enemy patterns.

Plan your run

What is the best way to play Double Dragon?

Keep enemies in front of Billy whenever possible so that attacks are not interrupted from behind. Short punches are safer against quick opponents, while kicks provide useful reach.

Pick up weapons before they disappear and use them on durable enemies. Near ledges and hazards, avoid jumping blindly; many encounters are easier when enemies are lured into a predictable position.

Save the strongest attacks for bosses, study their approach patterns, and avoid standing directly beside multiple enemies at once.

Meet the cast

Who are the key characters?

1

Billy Lee

The playable martial artist who fights to rescue Marian.

2

Marian

Billy's girlfriend, whose kidnapping drives the game's main story.

3

Jimmy Lee

Billy's brother and rival martial artist, appearing as an important antagonist in the final confrontation.

4

Abobo

A large Black Warriors enforcer and recurring boss.

5

Linda

A whip-wielding Black Warriors member who attacks Billy.

Before you begin

What should you know before playing?

  1. 1

    Use the edge of the screen to limit the number of enemies that can approach at once.

  2. 2

    A dropped weapon can make difficult enemy groups much safer to clear.

Community discussion

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