Expanding upon the success of hack-and-slasher Golden Axe, the sequel refined the graphics and gameplay in numerous key ways, adding all new player characters, rideable mounts with their own special attacks, stationary weapons and an expanded magic system that had increasingly dramatic effects depending on how many potions you have. The Revenge of Death Adder also added increasingly complex stages, including countrysides, castles, caves and ships that expand the game universe, and brought back the treasure gnome everyone loves to beat up.