Super C (also known as Super Contra in some regions) is a side-scrolling run-and-gun video game developed and published by Konami in 1990 for the arcade and later ported to various home consoles, including the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES). It is the sequel to the iconic Contra game and continues the series’ tradition of fast-paced, action-packed gameplay.
Game Summary:
1. Gameplay:
- Super C follows the same core mechanics as the original Contra, featuring side-scrolling action, where players control one of two soldiers, Bill Rizer or Lance Bean, as they battle through various levels filled with enemies.
- The game is known for its high difficulty, requiring precise movement and quick reflexes to survive. Players move through environments, shooting enemies, avoiding traps, and dodging obstacles.
- Unlike its predecessor, Super C includes both side-scrolling levels and “overhead” levels, where the action takes place from a top-down perspective, adding variety to the gameplay.
2. Story:
- The storyline of Super C follows Bill and Lance as they attempt to stop an alien invasion. The game begins with a mysterious alien force that threatens humanity, and it’s up to the two soldiers to defeat the alien forces and save the world. The plot is simple and serves as a backdrop for the action-packed gameplay.
- The game does not focus heavily on story, but the mission is clear: destroy alien forces and prevent global destruction.
3. Levels and Environments:
- Super C consists of eight different levels, each with its own unique environments, enemy types, and challenges. The stages vary in setting, including jungle landscapes, military bases, and alien-infested environments.
- The levels feature a variety of obstacles, such as moving platforms, pits, and enemy ambushes. Some levels also include large, challenging bosses at the end.
- The overhead stages provide a change of pace from the traditional side-scrolling action, offering a top-down view of the battlefield as players engage enemies from a different perspective.
4. Weapons and Power-ups:
- Super C introduces a wide variety of weapons and power-ups that can be collected throughout the game. These power-ups are dropped by enemies or hidden in certain locations.
- Machine Gun: Fires rapidly in a straight line.
- Spread Gun: Fires multiple projectiles in a wide pattern, making it one of the most powerful weapons.
- Flame Thrower: Shoots a close-range stream of fire.
- Laser Gun: Fires a continuous beam, cutting through enemies.
- Grenades: A throwable explosive that can take out multiple enemies at once.
- Players can also collect power-ups that increase their health or grant them extra lives, though these are limited.
5. Two-Player Mode:
- One of the standout features of Super C is its two-player cooperative mode, which allows players to team up and play through the game together. In this mode, players can work together to defeat enemies, revive each other if one player loses all their lives, and strategize to tackle tougher sections.
- The cooperative gameplay enhances the experience and adds an extra layer of fun, especially during challenging levels and boss battles.
6. Difficulty:
- Super C is known for its challenging difficulty, particularly in the later stages. Enemies appear in large numbers, often with no room to escape, and the bosses are formidable.
- The game has limited continues and lives, which makes it difficult to progress through the entire game without mastering the levels.
- Players need quick reflexes, memorization of enemy patterns, and precise control of their character to succeed in Super C.
7. Graphics and Sound:
- Super C features enhanced graphics compared to the original Contra, with more detailed backgrounds, character sprites, and smoother animations. The environments are varied and vibrant, ranging from jungles to military installations to alien lairs.
- The sound design in Super C includes a catchy and intense soundtrack that complements the fast-paced action. The sound effects, including gunfire, explosions, and enemy sounds, add to the atmosphere and excitement.
8. Legacy and Reception:
- Super C was well-received by critics and players for its engaging gameplay, challenging difficulty, and cooperative mode. It is often praised for being a worthy sequel to Contra, improving on the original formula with new levels, weapons, and gameplay variety.
- The game became a staple in the run-and-gun genre, alongside other classics like Contra and Metal Slug. It is remembered as one of the best action games of its time.
- Super C helped solidify the Contra series as one of the most iconic franchises in gaming history.
9. Conclusion:
- Super C remains a beloved classic in the run-and-gun genre, with its fast-paced action, cooperative gameplay, and challenging difficulty. While it is a tough game, it rewards skilled players with intense combat, memorable levels, and exciting boss battles.
