Some of the original developers behind the iconic Double Dragon series are expressing discontent with the upcoming Double Dragon Revive, a fresh installment set to launch in 2025. The beat-em-up franchise, originally developed by Technos Japan in 1987, is widely credited for popularizing the genre throughout the late 80s and early 90s. However, as new titles are being developed by Arc System Works, some of the franchise’s early creators aren’t happy with the current direction.

A New Direction for Double Dragon

Double Dragon Revive, the latest addition to the series, is being developed by Arc System Works, known for titles like Dragon Ball FighterZ. Revive promises to maintain the core beat-em-up gameplay that made the series famous but will feature a 3D art style with anime-like character models, reminiscent of Street Fighter 6. While fans of the franchise are curious about the new approach, not everyone is on board—especially some of the original developers.

Criticism from the Original Creators

In a social media exchange reported by Automaton, original Double Dragon animator Koji Ogata and designer Muneki Ebinuma shared their thoughts on the upcoming game. Ogata, who worked on early installments of Double Dragon, criticized Double Dragon Revive by stating that “not a single person in the Technos group” recognizes it as a true Double Dragon title. He added that the new entry feels like a “cheap, modern game that shows no respect for Double Dragon.”

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Ebinuma, who contributed to titles like Super Double Dragon (1992) and Double Dragon Advance (2003), echoed Ogata’s sentiments. He criticized the visual design showcased in Revive's trailer, describing the game as “too dark” and lamenting that the characters and fighting mechanics lack the signature punch and distinctive feel that defined the earlier games. Both developers expressed their disappointment, with Ebinuma suggesting that the game shouldn’t bear the Double Dragon name at all.

An Unwanted Departure

The core of the criticism seems to revolve around the perceived departure from what made Double Dragon special. According to these veteran developers, the spirit of the original games—defined by their unique fighting techniques and impactful gameplay—has been lost in the new title’s modern overhaul. While innovation in franchises is often encouraged, the original creators feel that Revive moves too far away from the essence of what made the series a classic.

Ogata, in a humorous response to a comment on Twitter, even joked that if he were to try the game at Tokyo Game Show 2024, he might end up throwing his controller at the screen.

The Legacy of Double Dragon

While Arc System Works acquired the Double Dragon license in 2015 and has since released titles like Double Dragon 4 (2017) and Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons (2023), these projects have garnered mixed reviews. The upcoming Double Dragon Revive is intended to breathe new life into the series by appealing to both nostalgic players and new audiences, but it’s clear that not everyone agrees with the changes being made.

Arc System Works, along with Yuke’s, the developer behind AEW Fight Forever, seems intent on charting a new path for Double Dragon. Yet, without the support of some of the original team members, the revival effort may face skepticism from long-time fans.

Final Thoughts

As Double Dragon Revive approaches its 2025 release, it remains to be seen whether it will win over both new players and the franchise’s purist fan base. The concerns voiced by Koji Ogata and Muneki Ebinuma point to a larger conversation about the balance between innovation and preserving the core identity of a beloved series. While the developers are pushing forward with their vision, it’s clear that for some, Double Dragon Revive may feel like a departure from the legacy they helped create. Whether it will live up to its name or stand as a controversial reboot will be decided when it finally hits the market.

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