Contra
Contra is the seminal run and gun shooter that defined the genre with its intense action, iconic power-up system, and relentless challenge. Players control commandos Bill Rizer and Lance Bean as they battle through waves of alien enemies in this classic arcade masterpiece.
Game Controls
About This Retro Game
Originally released in arcades, Contra established the foundation for the series with its signature weapon system where players collect power-ups to switch between different firearms including the iconic Spread Gun and Laser.
The game is renowned for its perfect blend of run-and-gun gameplay, platforming challenges, and memorable boss battles against giant alien organisms and mechanical war machines.
Features the classic Konami Code (up, up, down, down, left, right, left, right, B, A) that grants players 30 lives in the home console versions, though the arcade version was notoriously difficult with limited continues.
With its tight controls, memorable soundtrack, and cooperative two-player mode, Contra became a cultural phenomenon and remains one of the most influential action games of all time.
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Related Retro 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.
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.
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.
Contra Advance is a 2002 enhanced port of the SNES classic Contra III: The Alien Wars for Game Boy Advance. This version features redesigned levels, new weapons, and exclusive bosses while retaining the series' signature run-and-gun action. Includes a brand new 'Alien Corridor' stage not found in the original.