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.”
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.