Introduction

Released in 1987 by Konami, Contra is a legendary run-and-gun arcade game that defined a generation of gamers. Developed by Koji Hiroshita and inspired by action films like Predator and Rambo, Contra challenged players with its fast-paced gameplay, cooperative action, and iconic levels.

Gameplay and Mechanics

In Contra, players take on the roles of Bill Rizer and Lance Bean, elite commandos tasked with stopping an alien invasion. The game is renowned for its high difficulty, requiring quick reflexes and precise timing.

Key Features

• Run-and-Gun Action: Players navigate diverse levels while shooting enemies, dodging obstacles, and collecting power-ups.
• Cooperative Multiplayer: Two players can team up, adding a layer of strategic coordination to the chaos.
• Diverse Weaponry: Power-ups include spread guns, laser rifles, and flamethrowers, each suited to different combat situations.
• Challenging Levels: The game’s eight stages range from jungles to alien-infested bases, each with unique enemies and environmental hazards.
• Memorable Boss Battles: Players face off against massive bosses, including alien war machines and grotesque extraterrestrial creatures.

Controls

The game features simple and intuitive controls:

• Joystick: Movement in eight directions.
• Two Buttons: One for shooting and one for jumping.

Design and Development

Contra was developed by Konami, a company renowned for its innovative arcade titles. The game was designed to capture the intensity of action films, combining high-stakes combat with visually striking set pieces.

Visuals and Audio

The detailed pixel art and fluid animations brought the action to life. The soundtrack, composed by Kazuki Muraoka, featured adrenaline-pumping tracks that perfectly complemented the high-octane gameplay.

Cabinet Design

The Contra arcade cabinet stood out with its bold artwork depicting the game’s protagonists and alien antagonists, enticing players to jump into the action.

Cultural Impact and Legacy

Contra became an arcade sensation, inspiring countless sequels and adaptations for home consoles.

Franchise Expansion

• The series includes numerous sequels, such as Super Contra (1988) and Contra III: The Alien Wars (1992).
• Contra remains a household name, with re-releases on modern platforms and dedicated fan communities.

Enduring Popularity

The game’s high difficulty, cooperative play, and memorable design have kept it relevant among retro gaming enthusiasts. Its influence is evident in modern run-and-gun games.

Fun Facts

• The iconic "Konami Code" originated in the NES version of Contra, giving players 30 lives.
• Contra’s protagonists, Bill and Lance, were modeled after Arnold Schwarzenegger and Sylvester Stallone.
• The title "Contra" refers to a guerrilla fighter, fitting the game’s action-packed narrative.

Conclusion

Contra is more than just a game—it’s a cultural phenomenon that defined the run-and-gun genre. Its challenging gameplay, cooperative action, and cinematic design make it a timeless classic. Whether battling through jungles or alien lairs, Contra remains an essential experience for any arcade enthusiast.

Related Pages

• Metal Slug: A hand-drawn run-and-gun masterpiece with intense action.
• Smash TV: A chaotic twin-stick shooter with dystopian themes.
• Double Dragon: A groundbreaking beat-em-up game with cooperative multiplayer action.

Want to learn more about Contra? Try these sources:

• Arcade Museum's facts & figures on Contra.
• Arcade History's dedicated page on this arcade.
• Indiegamerchick's review on Contra.