Original Double Dragon Devs Criticize Upcoming Game from Arc System Works

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Original Double Dragon Devs Criticize Upcoming Game from Arc System Works

Key Takeaways

  • Some developers from Technos Japan, the team behind the original Double Dragon game, are criticizing the upcoming title Double Dragon Revive.
  • The Arc System Works game is set to be released sometime in 2025.
  • According to the original devs, not a single person at Technos recognizes Revive

    as a true Double Dragon

    title.

As a die-hard fan who grew up playing the original Double Dragon games, it’s disheartening to see the developers behind the series express such criticism towards the upcoming revival. The nostalgia I felt when playing those iconic beat-em-ups back in the day was unparalleled, and it seems that the spirit of those classic titles might be lost in Double Dragon Revive.

A group of creators involved with the original “Double Dragon” gaming franchise express skepticism about its upcoming reboot and have been vocalizing their concerns regarding its new direction on various social platforms. Back in 1987, Technos Japan introduced the world to the first “Double Dragon” game, marking the beginning of a glorious era for beat-em-up games that lasted well into the mid 90s. Later, Arc System Works, developers behind “Dragon Ball FighterZ”, obtained the rights to “Double Dragon” in 2015, leading to the release of “Double Dragon 4” in 2017. The most recent game in the series was “Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons”, a spin-off developed by Secret Base and Modus Games that hit shelves in 2023.

Previously, it was officially announced by Arc System Works that a new installment in the popular series, Double Dragon, named Double Dragon Revive, is underway and expected to release in the year 2025. In this upcoming game, the traditional brawling action of the Double Dragon series will remain but with characters depicted in 3D models. Previews showcasing character designs suggest that Double Dragon Revive will adopt an anime-inspired aesthetic similar to what is anticipated for the 2023 release, Street Fighter 6.

While eager fans anticipate the unfolding of Double Dragon Revive, some original creators from Technos have voiced their opinions on this latest addition to the series via social media. Regrettably, it seems these veterans are not supportive of the new game, as Koji Ogata, an animator for the original Double Dragon, stated that none within the Technos team acknowledge Revive as a Double Dragon title. He further characterized Revive as a low-cost, modern game lacking reverence for the Double Dragon franchise.

Original Double Dragon Animator Koji Ogata Doesn’t Like New Game

I, being an ardent fan, recently had the privilege of exchanging thoughts with Muneki Ebinuma, the mastermind behind several iconic entries of the legendary game, Double Dragon. This includes the 1992 classic, Super Double Dragon, and the 2003 hit, Double Dragon Advance. In our private conversation, it was heartening to find that we both share a similar sentiment towards Double Dragon Revive. He expressed his concern about the game’s visual aesthetic, stating it appears “too dark.” Moreover, he critiqued the characters and fighting techniques depicted in the recent Double Dragon Revive trailer. Delving deeper into our discussion, he described the new game as seemingly lacking the powerful punch and unique, distinctive feel that characterized the past iterations of Double Dragon.

Muneki Ebinuma expresses his regret that Arc System Works chose to title their upcoming project as “Double Dragon”, and Koji Ogata humorously stated he’d toss a controller at the screen if given the opportunity to play “Double Dragon Revive” at this year’s Tokyo Game Show. It appears Arc System Works and Yuke’s, the developers of “AEW Fight Forever”, are experimenting with fresh ideas for the next “Double Dragon” game, but some members of the original development team do not seem to approve.

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2024-09-23 18:34