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The Dragon

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The player assumes the role of Bruce Lee, who uses Liu Kang's sprites. The levels are split into a platforming/action section and a one-on-one fighting section, with both sections using the same control mechanics. The end level boss is another character from Mortal Kombat 1 but is renamed in a ri...

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Developer
Ramar International

Released on
1995

Size
1 Player

Version
NES

Requirements
Nintendo Entertainment System

Downloads
Fighting

ESRB Rating
Not Rated

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Description

The player assumes the role of Bruce Lee, who uses Liu Kang’s sprites. The levels are split into a platforming/action section and a one-on-one fighting section, with both sections using the same control mechanics. The end level boss is another character from Mortal Kombat 1 but is renamed in a ridiculous fashion. The bosses are made up of Scorpion, Johnny Cage, Sonya, Kano, & Raiden. Cinema scenes before and after each level loosely refer to some of Bruce Lee’s films.

Besides the main story mode there is also a “battle” option, which allows you to select and fight any of the five level bosses in a best 2-out-of-3 match. There is no option for a 2nd human player to join, nor can you play as any of the other characters.

The Dragon

Overview & History

Released during the twilight years of the Famicom/NES era, *The Dragon* stands as an obscure, highly ambitious side-scrolling action-platformer deeply rooted in Eastern folklore. Developed by Hwang Shinwei and published across various Asian and select international markets, the game drops players into a mythical realm overrun by demonic forces. You control a legendary martial artist reincarnated as a celestial warrior tasked with ascending a treacherous mountain fortress to defeat the overarching serpentine tyrant. Despite its late-generation release and limited print run, the title gained a cult following among retro collectors due to its striking, atmospheric sprite work, vibrant pastel color palettes, and a haunting chiptune soundtrack that authentically captures ancient dynastic themes.

Gameplay Features & Mechanics

Unlike standard linear platformers of its time, *The Dragon* incorporates tight, momentum-based physics and a punishing stamina system. Players navigate perilous vertical tiers filled with crumbling pagoda bridges, moving platform hazards, and relentless waves of mythical beasts including tengu, wandering monks, and spectral archers. Character moveset versatility is a core highlight: alongside standard melee combos, players can execute flying drop-kicks, rooftop wall-jumps, and charged spiritual projectile blasts that consume accumulated 'Chi' meters gathered by defeating mini-bosses. Hidden alcoves throughout each stage contain ancient scrolls that permanently upgrade attack speed or health pools, turning every descent and climb into a high-stakes balancing act between aggressive offense and cautious platforming precision.