For a two-meg cartridge though there's so much love put into LA.  The graphics are lush, gorgeous.  The music stays interesting level to level.  The gameplay is smooth and has a perfect difficulty curve.  It was one of the first home video games to have that arcade feel.  Cracking a goon with a fully powered axe is so satisfying.  The final two bosses are amazing for a turbo game.  It is close though.  DE has- I believe 15 bosses?  5 players, great music, great graphics, hidden characters, and like you say its got that Gauntlet thing on lock.  Tough.