Double Dragon 4

The music in the game has received mixed reviews, with some praising the nostalgic retro soundtrack and the option to switch between classic 8-bit and modern remixed versions. However, many players find the new music to be bland and repetitive, lacking the memorable quality of earlier titles in the series. Overall, while the retro option is appreciated, the original compositions are often criticized for not capturing the same charm as the classic soundtracks.

The graphics of "Double Dragon IV" are a nostalgic throwback to the NES era, featuring low-bit pixel art that some players find charming while others deem it dated and uninspired. While the character sprites evoke fond memories, the backgrounds often lack detail and cohesion, leading to mixed reviews on their overall quality. Many appreciate the retro aesthetic, but criticisms arise regarding the lack of graphical options and the game's reliance on reused assets, resulting in a visual experience that feels inconsistent and sometimes rough around the edges.

The gameplay of Double Dragon IV has received mixed reviews, with many players noting that while it retains the classic feel of the NES games, it suffers from issues such as overwhelming enemy numbers, stunlock mechanics, and a lack of modern gameplay features like dodging or blocking. Although some improvements have been made, including more varied moves and better combo mechanics, the overall experience is marred by repetitiveness and frustrating platforming elements. Fans of the series may appreciate the nostalgia, but newcomers might find the gameplay outdated and lacking in innovation.

Replayability in the game is mixed; while it offers some fun through modes like the endurance tower and the ability to unlock various characters with unique movesets, many players feel that the overall replay value is limited, especially due to the absence of online multiplayer and a lack of challenging content. Fans of the series may find enjoyment in replaying the story with different characters, but those seeking extensive replay value might be disappointed.

The game's stability is generally mixed; while it runs smoothly on the Steam Deck with no major issues reported, players have encountered various glitches, including immunity exploits and minor visual bugs. Some users experienced significant screen tearing and performance problems on PC, suggesting that the game's stability may vary significantly across different platforms. Overall, while there are no game-breaking issues, the presence of multiple glitches detracts from the experience, leading some to feel it resembles a fan-made project rather than a polished title.

The game's humor is described as subtle and not overly exaggerated, contrasting with the more comedic tone of "Double Dragon Neon." While it offers a rewarding experience, it lacks the polish and humor found in similar titles, making it less appealing for those seeking a game with a strong comedic element. Overall, players may find the humor enjoyable but not as prominent or engaging as in other games in the genre.

The monetization of the game has been criticized as a "lazy cash grab," with reviewers expressing skepticism about its value and depth, likening it to a quick, shallow experience reminiscent of ROM hacks or flash games. Despite its low price point of around $7 or $8, many feel it fails to justify the cost due to its perceived lack of quality and innovation.

Players find the grinding aspect of the game to be tedious, particularly due to repetitive tasks like search and rescue missions. However, the improved battle mechanics, which utilize more than two buttons, help alleviate some of the monotony compared to previous installments. Overall, while the grinding can feel tiresome, the gameplay mechanics offer a more engaging experience.

Character development in Double Dragon IV is noted for its impressive character designs and the depth of fighting styles, allowing for a variety of infinite combos. However, the reviews do not elaborate on individual character arcs or growth, focusing more on gameplay mechanics than narrative progression.

The game's atmosphere is heavily influenced by a nostalgic retro soundtrack that successfully captures the essence of NES games, enhancing the overall experience for players.