# Double Dragon - The Pioneering Beat 'em Up Classic *Double Dragon*, released in June 1987 by Technōs Japan for arcades, is a seminal beat 'em up game that defined the genre. Players control martial artists Billy and Jimmy Lee, the Double Dragons, as they fight through the Black Warriors gang to rescue Billy’s girlfriend, Marian, kidnapped by gang leader Willy. Featuring four stages (city slums, factory, woods, hideout), players use punches, kicks, elbow strikes, and weapons like bats, whips, and knives to battle enemies like Williams, Linda, and Abobo. Known for its innovative combo system, two-player simultaneous co-op, and gritty urban aesthetic, it boasts vibrant 16-bit arcade visuals (for its time) and a memorable soundtrack by Kazunaka Yamane. A massive success, it sold thousands of arcade units and was ported to numerous platforms, including Amiga, Atari ST, and later included in *Double Dragon Trilogy* (PS4, Xbox One, Switch). It’s celebrated for its influence on games like *Final Fight*. ## Why Play Double Dragon (1987 Arcade)? *Double Dragon* delivers fast-paced, genre-defining beat 'em up action with a dynamic combat system, allowing players to chain punches, kicks, and throws (e.g., hair-pull, back kick). Environmental weapons (e.g., dynamite, barrels) and interactive stage elements (e.g., conveyor belts) add depth. The arcade’s simultaneous two-player co-op lets Billy and Jimmy team up seamlessly, with a dramatic twist in co-op mode where players must fight each other to win Marian’s affection. Its four stages are short but intense (1-2 hours main story, 3-5 for completion with continues), with tough bosses like Willy’s machine gun. The game’s fluid controls and raw energy make it a must-play for retro ROM and beat 'em up fans, though its high difficulty and limited move set may challenge modern players. ## Game Features - Play as Billy or Jimmy Lee across 4 stages (city, factory, woods, hideout) - Use martial arts moves (punch, kick, elbow, throw) and weapons (bat, whip, knife, dynamite) - Simultaneous two-player co-op with a unique final duel in co-op mode - Battle iconic enemies like Williams, Linda, Abobo, and boss Willy - Vibrant arcade visuals with detailed sprites and animated backgrounds - Experience authentic arcade gameplay on our retro ROM platform or in *Double Dragon Trilogy* (PS4, Xbox One, Switch) ## Play Double Dragon (1987 Arcade) Online Punch your way through today! Our website, Classic Joy Games, lets you play *Double Dragon* (1987 arcade) instantly with no downloads, optimized for modern browsers using arcade emulators. Alternatively, enjoy it on PS4, Xbox One, or Switch via *Double Dragon Trilogy* (2015), or emulation sites like Arcade Spot or RetroGames.cc. Physical arcade boards are rare and costly on eBay ($200-$500). Ideal for fans of retro ROMs and classic beat 'em ups! Note: For emulation, use MAME or RetroArch for optimal performance; expect minor sprite flicker in busy scenes. Join players worldwide and enjoy *Double Dragon* (1987 arcade) on Classic Joy Games. Start your fight now and save Marian to cement the Lee brothers’ legendary arcade legacy!