Double Dragon Advance (2003). Play online

Summary

Double Dragon Advance feels like a love letter to everyone who ever bunched a GBA in their hands. Developed by Million and released through Atlus, the game builds the classic side‑scrolling beat ’em up on a portable platform while stitching together the best moves, weapons and stages from across the series. New attacks such as the Hyper Uppercut, High Jump Kick and the NES‑era Pin Attack sit alongside the original combo set, and fresh weapon choices – nunchaku, flail and double‑kali sticks – let you experiment as you clear iconic levels like Chinatown, a moving truck, a cavern and a reimagined fortress.

The title even adds a few smart modes: a two‑player link‑cable brawl, a solo mode that lets you switch between Billy and Jimmy, and a Survival mode that tests how long you can keep the onslaught at bay. Customizable screen borders let you pick from five wallpapers, adding a personal touch. Designer Muneki Ebinuma crafted it as a tribute to the original arcade classic, and reviewers noticed – GameSpot gave it an 8.3, Game Informer a 9, lauding its depth while noting its relatively short length.

Storyline

Double Dragon Advance drops you back into the classic beat‑em‑up world of the Lee brothers. As Billy Lee—or his brother Jimmy—you battle through hordes of the Shadow Warriors to rescue Marian, Billy’s girlfriend. The game mirrors the original arcade’s premise, keeping the same gritty street‑fighting vibe. Each level pits you against the gang’s thugs, culminating in a showdown with their leader. The storyline stays simple but iconic, driving the fast‑paced action that defines the Double Dragon series.