Retro Run and Gun Games Collection
Combining fast-paced platforming with real-time shooting, Run and Gun games deliver explosive action. Pioneered by Contra (1987), the genre thrives on twitch reflexes, weapon upgrades, and co-op gameplay.
Core Evolution
- Arcade Origins (1980s): Contra and Metal Slug set the standard- 16-bit Golden Age (1990s): Gunstar Heroes refined weapon systems
- Modern Revival (2010s): Cuphead revived hand-drawn aesthetics
- Current Trends: Roguelike elements in Blazing Chrome
Key Features
- Run & Shoot Mechanics: Simultaneous movement and firing- Power-up System: Collectible weapons (spread shot, lasers)
- Boss Battles: Screen-filling enemies with pattern-based attacks
Why Players Love It
Perfect blend of arcade intensity, co-op camaraderie, and satisfying gunplay.🎮All Retro Run and Gun Games
Contra is a seminal run-and-gun shooter developed by Konami for the NES in 1988. Set in 2633 AD, players control elite commandos Bill Rizer and Lance Bean as they battle the Red Falcon alien organization across eight stages of intense side-scrolling action. Known for its punishing difficulty, the game popularized the 30-life 'Konami Code' and set the standard for cooperative arcade-style gameplay on home consoles.
A spin-off in the Contra series featuring a team of four special operatives with unique abilities battling terrorists in an urban environment with improved weapon systems.
The ultimate alien-blasting sequel! Battle through 8 stages as Bill and Lance with enhanced Spread Guns and new overhead-view levels to destroy the Red Falcon organization.
A top-down military shooter where players control a heavily armed jeep rescuing POWs behind enemy lines. Features simultaneous two-player co-op with upgradable weapons and destructible environments across six intense missions.
The European version of Contra featuring robotic protagonists instead of human soldiers due to regional content restrictions. Battle through 8 stages of intense alien warfare with a friend in co-op mode.
A top-down run-and-gun shooter where players battle through alien-infested spaceships to rescue hostages. Features cooperative multiplayer and upgradable weapons.
A challenging run-and-gun action game set in a dystopian future where Jay McCray battles through five stages of mechanized enemies to avenge his father's death on the space colony Silius. Notable for its tight controls, varied weapon system, and exceptional soundtrack by Naoki Kodaka.
Based on the 1992 film, this NES adaptation puts players in the role of Ellen Ripley as she battles through a prison facility overrun by Xenomorphs. Features side-scrolling action with various weapons to combat the alien threat.
Treasure's explosive debut title redefined run-and-gun gameplay with its weapon fusion system, acrobatic combat, and cinematic boss battles. Players control Gunstar Red or Blue to stop the evil Empire from obtaining four mystical gems with world-ending power.
The 1994 Genesis-exclusive installment in Konami's legendary run-and-gun series introduces a new elite squad battling a biomechanical terrorist threat in a post-Alien Wars future. Notable for its branching paths, multiple endings, and extreme difficulty.
Sunset Riders is a Wild West-themed run and gun arcade game ported to Genesis. Players choose between four bounty hunters (Steve, Billy, Bob, and Cormano) to take down wanted criminals across six action-packed stages.
A technically dazzling run-and-gun shooter from Treasure, featuring non-stop boss battles, intricate sprite work, and one of the most demanding action experiences on the Genesis.
Metal Slug is a run and gun arcade game developed by Nazca Corporation and published by SNK. Known for its fast-paced action, humorous tone, and detailed pixel art, the game follows a group of soldiers fighting against a rebel army and their advanced weaponry. Players can pilot various vehicles, including the iconic 'Metal Slug' tank.
The explosive sequel introduces the iconic Slugs and playable female soldiers Eri and Fio. Battle through 5 missions with enhanced weapons and the debut of zombie transformations.
The enhanced remake of Metal Slug 2 with revamped visuals, reduced slowdown, and new weapons. Features the debut of the iconic 'Slug Copter' and 'Iron Lizard' drone.
The pinnacle of the series with branching paths, zombie transformations, and the largest vehicle roster. Battle alien-infected soldiers across 5 epic missions with 2-player co-op.
The controversial installment developed by new teams after SNK's bankruptcy. Introduces the 'Weapon Stock System' and cybernetic enemies, but reuses assets from previous games.
The final arcade installment in the classic series introduces the Slide Move and new Slug vehicles. Battle against the mysterious Ptolemaic Army across 5 explosive missions.

















