Something I love about Beat'Em Ups, specifically the ones that take place in urban settings, is how your set of protagonists are usually of the "Just Some Guy" variety. Like, they're rarely some chosen one warrior who's going on grand quest. Most of them are average schmucks who want beat up the final boss because they kidnapped someone they love, or because they're just kind of a dickhead who has it coming. It's weirdly charming, I would guess that inspiration probably come from classic martial arts movies that had similar premises.

Shout out to ladies from Beat'Em Up Games. Gotta be one my favorite genders.