Welcome back to Sega Saturday, our weekly feature where we spotlight a classic Sega release and take a trip back to the golden age of gaming! This week’s pick is a true beat ‘em up legend — Double Dragon for the Sega Genesis (Mega Drive).
Originally developed by Technōs Japan and released in arcades in 1987, Double Dragon helped define the side-scrolling brawler genre that would dominate the late ‘80s and early ‘90s. The Sega Genesis port, published by Ballistic (Accolade) in 1992, brought the gritty, street-fighting action home with improved graphics, enhanced sound, and that unforgettable two-player cooperative gameplay that made the series famous.
Players take control of martial arts brothers Billy and Jimmy Lee as they fight their way through hordes of enemies to rescue Marian, Billy’s kidnapped girlfriend. The Genesis version stays true to the arcade original but with a few unique twists — faster gameplay, smoother animations, and the console’s signature punchy soundtrack that really amps up the action.
While Double Dragon had seen earlier releases on systems like the NES and Master System, the Genesis version stood out for its arcade-like visuals and tight controls. It also helped reintroduce the series to a new audience just as beat ‘em ups like Streets of Rage were dominating Sega’s library.
Even today, Double Dragon remains a must-play for fans of retro brawlers. It’s a reminder of how simple, side-scrolling action could deliver pure adrenaline and hours of fun.
👊 Fun Fact: The name “Double Dragon” comes from the brothers’ shared martial arts dojo — the “Sou-Setsu-Ken” (literally, “Twin Intercepting Fists”) — symbolizing their strength and unity in battle.
🎮 Platform: Sega Genesis / Mega Drive
🕹️ Publisher: Ballistic (Accolade)
📅 Release Year: 1992
👬 Genre: Beat ‘Em Up
Stay tuned for next week’s Sega Saturday pick as we continue exploring Sega’s legendary library, one cartridge at a time!








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