Play Double Dragon on GB Online

Double Dragon on the Game Boy came out in 1990 from Technos Japan, the same folks behind the arcade original. It was one of the earlier attempts to bring a full beat 'em up experience to a handheld, a time when most portable games were simpler puzzle or action titles. You got a condensed version of the story, but it still felt like a substantial thing to carry in your pocket.

You control either Billy or Jimmy Lee, moving screen by screen to rescue Marian from the Black Warriors gang. The core gameplay involves punching, kicking, and most importantly, mastering the elbow attack, which is far stronger than your other moves. You progress through urban and wilderness stages, occasionally picking up a knife or a whip to use against enemies. The game is quite difficult, with limited continues and enemies that quickly swarm you. It feels like a tough, scrappy fight where every cleared screen is a small victory.