Contra

Story Summary

The game is set in the distant future, in the year 2633, where Earth is under threat from an alien invasion. Players take on the roles of two elite commandos, Bill Rizer and Lance Bean, members of the “Contra” unit. Their mission is to infiltrate an island, eliminate the alien threat, and destroy the “Red Falcon” organization, which seeks to conquer Earth.

Key locations in the game include:

1. The Jungle: The starting area where players fight enemy soldiers and avoid traps.
2. The Base: A series of fortified bunkers filled with traps and enemies.
3. The Waterfall: A vertically scrolling level where players climb to reach the enemy’s stronghold.
4. Alien Lair: The final stage, featuring grotesque alien enemies and the Red Falcon boss.

Gameplay

Contra is known for its fast-paced, side-scrolling action. Players advance through various levels, defeating enemies and avoiding obstacles. Key gameplay elements include:

• Two-Player Co-Op: Contra is famous for its simultaneous two-player mode, allowing friends to team up for the mission.
• Weapons and Power-Ups: Players start with a basic rifle but can acquire various power-ups, including:
  • Spread Gun (the most popular weapon for its wide attack range)
  • Laser Gun
  • Machine Gun
  • Flamethrower
• Diverse Levels: Levels alternate between side-scrolling and pseudo-3D stages, adding variety to the gameplay.

Difficulty and Legacy

Contra is renowned for its high difficulty, with players needing to master quick reflexes and precise movements to survive. The game introduced the now-famous Konami Code (Up, Up, Down, Down, Left, Right, Left, Right, B, A, Start), which grants players 30 extra lives—a necessity for many players to complete the game.

Impact and Legacy

• Genre-Defining Game: Contra set the standard for the run-and-gun genre and influenced many games that followed.
• Cultural Icon: Its challenging gameplay and cooperative mode made it a favorite among gamers in the 1980s and 1990s.
• Sequels and Ports: The success of Contra led to numerous sequels, including Super Contra, Contra III: The Alien Wars, and Contra: Hard Corps. It also inspired remakes and modern adaptations.

Memorable Features

• Co-Op Gameplay: A major selling point, allowing two players to experience the action together.
• Music and Sound: The game features a legendary 8-bit soundtrack that enhances the high-energy gameplay.
• Alien Aesthetic: The final stages introduce a unique blend of sci-fi and horror, reminiscent of the Alien movie franchise.

Contra remains a beloved title, representing the golden age of arcade and NES gaming, and continues to be a nostalgic favorite for fans of retro action games.