Contra is one of the NES classics that helped define the run-and-gun genre. From the moment you start the game, it’s clear that Konami wasn’t messing around — the action is relentless, the levels are tough, and the stakes feel high. You control a lone soldier (or two in co-op mode), fighting your way through waves of alien forces and heavily armed enemies to stop an extraterrestrial invasion.
The game shines in its tight and responsive controls. Running, jumping, and shooting feel precise, which is crucial when dodging bullets, leaping over gaps, or taking out enemies before they swarm you. The weapons system adds variety — the spread gun is particularly fun, letting you clear screens of enemies in a satisfying burst of firepower.
Level design is both challenging and memorable. You’ll traverse jungles, underground bases, and alien landscapes, each filled with patterns of enemies and hazards that test your reflexes and strategy. Boss fights punctuate each stage, giving you tough but fair challenges that require memorization and skill to overcome.
The two-player co-op mode is where Contra really shines. Tag-teaming through waves of enemies with a friend is an exhilarating experience, and it adds a layer of strategy as you coordinate movements and firepower. The game’s difficulty can be brutal, but that’s part of the charm — it’s a game that rewards persistence and mastery.
The graphics are colorful and detailed for an NES title, with clear enemy sprites and exciting explosions. The soundtrack and sound effects complement the fast-paced action perfectly, pumping adrenaline as you move from stage to stage.
Finally, Contra is famous for its Konami Code: entering Up, Up, Down, Down, Left, Right, Left, Right, B, A, Start grants 30 lives, offering a welcome reprieve for those who struggle with the game’s notorious difficulty.
Pros:
- Tight, responsive controls
- Excellent two-player co-op experience
- Iconic weapons and power-ups
- Memorable level design and boss encounters
- Classic soundtrack and sound effects
Cons:
- Extremely challenging, especially for solo players
- Limited continues without using the Konami Code
Verdict:
Contra is a must-play for NES fans and anyone who enjoys action-packed, skill-based run-and-gun games. Its difficulty may be intimidating, but the sense of accomplishment after clearing a tough stage is unparalleled. With cooperative gameplay, iconic weapons, and some of the most memorable levels of the 8-bit era, Contra remains a timeless classic.
Score: 10/10
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