Originally published on August 13, 2025, this video features the demoplays, character bios, and a quick match showcasing each hero in The King of Dragons, a classic side-scrolling beat ’em up with a medieval fantasy theme, released by Capcom in 1991 for arcades.
Its goal is to defeat the formidable red dragon Gildiss and his minions — including orcs, gnolls, harpies, wyverns, cyclopes, and minotaurs — who have invaded the kingdom. The quest is carried out by five heroes: the warrior, cleric, elf, wizard, and dwarf — known by fans as Derek, Ravel, Leger, Vargas, and Aldo — each with strengths and weaknesses in speed, attack, and magic.
Across several short levels guarded by bosses, you collect new shields, weapons, and magic, gaining upgrades along the way — a simplified version of typical RPG leveling that complements the Dungeons & Dragons–inspired theme.
The King of Dragons was well received at the time and remains a quality title, despite its simpler controls compared to other brawlers of the era. It was later ported to platforms such as Super Nintendo in 1994 and emulated in collections like the Capcom Beat ’Em Up Bundle, available for Switch, PlayStation 4, Windows, and Xbox One.
If you enjoy classic arcade games, medieval fantasy, and Capcom titles, this video is for you. Watch, relive the nostalgia, and don’t forget to like, share with friends who love retro gaming!
Full playthrough
We have another video with The King of Dragons, it’s an older one, but shows the game, also in its arcade version fully beaten (I spent lots of credits), without commentary:
More info and gaming
Overview
- Length: 18:33
- Channel(s): Gaming Room
- Categories: Gameplays, Videos