Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Die Hard Arcade offers a fast-paced, 3D beat ’em up experience that captures the high-octane action of the original film. Players control one of two heroes as they punch, kick and dodge their way through multiple floors of a skyscraper to save the President’s kidnapped daughter. The simple control scheme—dedicated buttons for punch, kick and jump—makes it accessible to newcomers, while the depth of combos and grapples keeps seasoned brawlers engaged.

A standout feature is the sheer variety of weapons scattered throughout each level. From broken bottles and knives to machine guns and rocket launchers, the arsenal keeps fights feeling fresh and frantic. Environmental objects like chairs, aerosol cans with lighters, and even a grandfather clock can be picked up and used against foes, adding a satisfying layer of improvisation to the combat.

Interspersed between stages are quick-reaction tests that demand split-second button presses—often punch, kick or jump. Success can net valuable items or health boosts, while failure forces you into an extra skirmish with minimal reward. These segments heighten the tension and break up the standard beat ’em up formula, though they can occasionally feel punitive if you miss the prompt.

Graphics

For its time, Die Hard Arcade’s 3D graphics were impressive, bringing polygonal characters and environments into vivid relief. The skyscraper’s interior is populated with detailed props—glasses, furniture and neon signs—that lend authenticity to each floor’s unique theme. Enemies are rendered with distinct looks, making it easy to identify stronger foes or those carrying firearms.

Character animations are fluid, with a surprising number of martial arts moves and weapon-handling poses. When you disarm a henchman and use his gun against him, the transition looks seamless. Combo finishes trigger dynamic camera angles and screen-shake effects that amplify the impact of every powerful strike.

While some textures appear blocky by modern standards, there’s a certain charm to the arcade-era visuals. Explosions and muzzle flashes remain satisfying, and the color palette shifts subtly from level to level—icy blues in the server room, warm reds in the boiler section—keeping the visual experience varied and engaging.

Story

The premise of Die Hard Arcade is straightforward: terrorists have taken the President’s daughter hostage in a skyscraper, and it’s up to you to fight your way through henchmen and traps to rescue her. Although the narrative is light on dialogue, it captures the essence of the Die Hard universe—relentless action, clever quips and a ticking-clock urgency.

Each stage advances the plot in bite-sized bursts, often punctuated by cutscenes that set up the next confrontation. You’ll breach offices, navigate maintenance shafts and even leap between elevators as the stakes escalate. The climax unfolds on the rooftop, where you face the mastermind surrounded by an arsenal of swords—a fitting showdown for any adrenaline junkie.

The inclusion of branching paths in certain areas adds a hint of replay value, as choosing different routes can lead to new enemy types or secret weapon caches. While the story may not delve deeply into character motivations, it provides enough momentum to drive you onward, floor by floor, toward the rescue.

Overall Experience

Die Hard Arcade delivers a relentless arcade-style brawl that’s both accessible and challenging. The co-op mode shines, letting a friend join in to double the carnage and combo possibilities. Together, players can coordinate attacks, trade weapons and tackle reaction tests with greater confidence.

The pacing is generally spot-on, with intense combat punctuated by reaction tests and occasional mini-games. One such bonus is the old Sega arcade title Deep Scan, which can be played within the cabinet to earn extra credits. It’s a charming throwback that fits well with the overall arcade atmosphere and can give you a lifeline when things get tough.

Repetitive wave fights can emerge after extended play sessions, but the wide weapon variety, environmental interactivity and rapid-fire action keep the experience feeling fresh. Whether you’re a die-hard beat ’em up fan or simply looking for a nostalgic arcade throwdown, Die Hard Arcade packs enough excitement and replay value to warrant a spot in your retro gaming collection.

Retro Replay Score

7.5/10