Contra Review

Contra, developed and published by Konami, is a legendary run-and-gun action game that became synonymous with intense, challenging gameplay on the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES). Released in 1988, Contra threw players into a chaotic battle against alien forces, armed with an arsenal of powerful weapons and a relentless determination to survive. This Contra NES review explores the game’s enduring appeal and its impact on the action genre.

Run, Gun, and Don’t Stop: Gameplay Mechanics

Contra on the NES is the epitome of run-and-gun gameplay. Players control Bill Rizer and Lance Bean (or Mad Dog and Scorpion in the arcade version), two elite soldiers tasked with defeating an alien army. The game is characterized by:

• Side-scrolling and vertical-scrolling levels filled with enemies.
• Constant, non-stop action and intense firefights.
• A wide array of powerful weapons, including the Spread Gun, Laser Gun, and Fireball Gun.
• Challenging level design that demands quick reflexes and precise movement.
• Iconic power-ups that dramatically change the gameplay.

Contra is known for its high difficulty, requiring players to master its mechanics and memorize enemy patterns. However, this challenge is part of the game’s appeal, providing a sense of accomplishment upon completion.

Power-Ups: An Arsenal of Destruction

Contra‘s power-ups are a defining feature of the game. Collecting these power-ups transforms the gameplay, giving players access to devastating weapons that can obliterate enemies and bosses. Some of the most iconic power-ups include:

• Spread Gun (S): Fires a wide spread of bullets, making it effective against groups of enemies.
• Laser Gun (L): Fires a powerful, piercing beam that can cut through multiple enemies.
• Fireball Gun (F): Fires a spiraling projectile that deals heavy damage.
• Machine Gun (M): Rapid fire.
• Rapid Fire (R): Increases the firing rate of the default weapon.

Mastering the use of these power-ups is crucial for survival in Contra.

The 30 Lives Code: Konami Code Legacy

Contra is also famous for popularizing the Konami Code. This button sequence (Up, Up, Down, Down, Left, Right, Left, Right, B, A, Start) grants the player 30 lives, making the game significantly easier.

The Konami Code became a legendary cheat code in gaming, and its inclusion in Contra cemented its place in video game history.

Graphics and Sound: 8-bit Action

Contra on the NES features impressive 8-bit graphics that push the limits of the console. The game’s detailed sprites, explosive effects, and dynamic environments create a sense of intense action.

The game’s soundtrack is equally memorable, with adrenaline-pumping tunes that perfectly complement the on-screen chaos. The sound effects, from the booming gunfire to the satisfying explosions, add to the game’s visceral impact.

Impact and Legacy: A Run-and-Gun Icon

Contra is a true icon of the run-and-gun genre. Its intense action, challenging difficulty, and innovative power-ups set a new standard for action games on the NES.

The game’s influence can be seen in countless other titles, and its legacy continues to be celebrated by gamers around the world. Contra remains a beloved classic and a testament to the golden age of 8-bit gaming.

Why is Contra so famous?

Contra is famous for its fast-paced, action-packed gameplay, its challenging difficulty, its iconic power-ups (especially the Spread Gun), and its association with the Konami Code. It delivered an intense and exciting arcade-style experience on the NES.

Is Contra on NES Worth Playing Today?

Yes, Contra on the NES is still worth playing today. Its core gameplay remains incredibly fun and challenging, and its 8-bit graphics and soundtrack provide a nostalgic experience for retro gaming enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned Contra veteran or a newcomer to the series, this game offers a thrilling and unforgettable action experience.