The Cyclone Spin Kick is a powerful attack that usefully knocks enemies flying (it's particularly useful if it knocks them flying into a pit). Performing these moves takes some getting used to, but once you've mastered them your odds of completing your quest improves significantly and it also makes the game more fun. Pressing buttons whilst jumping will allow Billy or Jimmy to pull off a jumping kick, a 'Cyclone Spin Kick' or the 'Mid-Air Somer-Assault'. There are only a few instances where you must jump between platforms, and the main reason for jumping is actually to perform one of the special moves. This method of jumping is not ideal for clearing gaps and the default button layout is a little awkward with any controller other than a Wii Remote, but you can of course remap to something more comfortable via the Virtual Console menu. The brothers handle the same with a button for punching and a button for kicking, push them together to perform a jump. You can choose to tackle the game alone or have a friend help out, with the second player being given control of Jimmy. Also adding to the difficulty is the absence of extra lives, so should you receive a severe beating or fall off the high platform that features later in the level, you will instantly be treated to the Game Over screen. You have to be careful to avoid taking too much damage as levels lack any health-replenishing items. There's only ever two on-screen, but dispatch them and two more quickly take their place.

When the action moves to the streets outside you are faced with a lot more gang members, some now with weapons. They kick and punch as well as run and jump about the screen, and will even work together, attacking you from different sides or with one using the other as a springboard to launch a jumping kick.

You might expect the enemies in the opening level to just run into your fist, but these people are surprisingly competent. This is apparent from the get-go, when shortly after your friend Brett dies before he can tell you something important, two members of this new mystery group rush in and attack. Acquiring the stones and freeing Marion will see the brothers visit five different countries, but the rescue mission will take a while as the game is tough.

Double dragon 3 review