Remember the time when you were a little boy or girl, sitting in front of your TV, and eagerly pressing the buttons on your game console, trying to defeat enemies and save the world? One of the games that probably comes to mind is Contra, a classic action game that was released in the late 1980s. For many of us who grew up playing Contra, revisiting the game today can evoke a great sense of nostalgic bliss. In this blog post, we'll explore why Contra was such a groundbreaking game and why it still holds up well today, more than three decades after its initial release.

Contra was developed and published by Konami, a Japanese video game company that also created other well-known game series such as Castlevania and Metal Gear. At the time of its release in 1987, Contra was praised for its fast-paced action, challenging gameplay, and cool graphics. The game was a side-scrolling shooter that featured two protagonists, Bill and Lance, who were sent on a mission to take down an evil organization called Red Falcon. The game was set in a futuristic and dystopian world, where the enemies were alien creatures and robots. The game was also notable for its varied levels, which included jungle, base, and alien spaceship environments.

One of the things that made Contra so iconic was its use of power-ups and weapons. As you play through the game, you'll come across various power-ups that give you temporary boosts such as rapid firing, spread shots, and invincibility. These power-ups were placed in secret locations, which made exploring the levels all the more rewarding. Additionally, Contra also featured challenging boss battles, which required precise timing and strategic thinking to defeat. The game was designed to be played with two players, which added an extra layer of fun and competition.

One of the reasons why Contra still holds up well today is its simplicity. The game was easy to pick up and play, but hard to master. Unlike many modern games, there were no complex storylines or character arcs to worry about. Players simply had to focus on running, jumping, and shooting their way through each level. Another reason why Contra has stood the test of time is its influence on other games. Many modern side-scrolling shooters, such as Cuphead and Streets of Rage 4, have been directly inspired by Contra's gameplay and design.

The legacy of Contra extends beyond just the original game. There have been multiple sequels and spin-offs, including Contra: Hard Corps, Contra III: The Alien Wars, and Contra: Rogue Corps. Additionally, Contra has also been referenced in popular culture, such as the 2007 movie Hot Fuzz and the Netflix series Stranger Things. The game has also been remastered and re-released on multiple platforms, including the Nintendo Switch and Xbox One.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Contra is a classic action game that has stood the test of time. Its fast-paced action, challenging gameplay, and cool graphics made it a groundbreaking game upon its release in 1987. Today, it still holds up well and continues to evoke nostalgia for gamers who grew up playing it. Its influence on modern games and popular culture is a testament to its enduring legacy. If you've never played Contra before, we highly recommend giving it a shot. Who knows, you might just rediscover your love for classic games and experience the joy of childhood all over again. Download the game here Techtoroms