Summary

• Release Year: 1989
• Genres: Sport
• Platforms: Atari 2600
• Developers: Atari Corporation
• Publishers: Atari Corporation

Double Dunk (1989): A Retro Basketball Gem

Double Dunk is a two-on-two basketball game released for the NES in 1989. It was developed by Konami and published by Ultra Games. The game is a simulation of half-court basketball, and it features a number of innovative features for its time, including the ability to select plays, three-point shots, and a shot clock.

Gameplay

Double Dunk is played on a half-court with two teams of two players each. In a single-player game, the player controls the on-screen character closest to the ball, either the one holding the ball (on offense) or the one guarding the opponent with the ball (on defense). In two-player games, each player may control one of the two teams as in a one-player game, or both players may play on the same team against a computer-controlled opponent.

At the start of each possession, both offense and defense select from a number of plays, such as the “pick and roll” on offense or the “zone defense” on defense. Once the play is selected, the players attempt to execute it and score or regain possession of the ball.

Double Dunk offers a number of player-selectable options. Games can be set to last a certain amount of time or until one team scores a certain number of points. Three-point shots can be turned on or off, as can a ten-second shot clock. Players may also choose to include foul detection and/or a three-second lane violation.

Graphics and Sound

Double Dunk’s graphics are simple but effective. The players are represented by small sprites, and the court is shown from a top-down perspective. The game’s sound effects are also simple, but they add to the overall atmosphere.

Reception

Double Dunk was well-received by critics upon its release. It was praised for its innovative gameplay, its two-player mode, and its overall fun factor. The game was also a commercial success, selling over one million copies worldwide.

Legacy

Double Dunk is considered to be one of the best basketball games for the NES. It was one of the first games to feature a shot clock and three-point shots, and it helped to popularize the two-on-two basketball format. Double Dunk has been cited as an influence on later basketball games, such as NBA Jam and Street Hoops.

Conclusion

Double Dunk is a fun and challenging two-on-two basketball game for the NES. It’s a great choice for fans of retro gaming and basketball fans alike. If you’re looking for a classic basketball game to play, Double Dunk is definitely worth checking out.

Here are some additional details about Double Dunk:

• The game features a number of different teams to choose from, each with their own unique strengths and weaknesses.
• The game’s AI is challenging, even on the easiest difficulty setting.
• Double Dunk can be played with up to four players, making it a great choice for parties or get-togethers.
• The game is still available to purchase on the Nintendo Switch Online service.

Overall, Double Dunk is a great basketball game that is still fun to play today. It’s a must-play for fans of retro gaming and basketball fans alike.

Review Score

7/10

Art

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