Contra

"Reason enough to get an NES!"

Last year when I decided to rebuy the NES, the first game that I purchased was Contra. I remembered the fun I used to have as a little kid in this game, even though I was lucky if I could even get to level 3 at the time without the Konami code. Well, finding a good deal on it off the internet, I quickly bought it, and I must say that no matter what age you are, this game is great! Out all of the Konami series, I may actually like Contra the best!


Graphics: 8/10

They're pretty good for the NES. The sprites are small so everything can be fit onto the screen well, yet everything is crystal clear. Hardly ever will anything blend into the background, if at all. The bosses are huge and creepy looking, which is especially cool.


Sound: 9/10

I really like the sound effects used in the game. The noise when you fire your gun, the explosion sounds, and the footsteps of your player used in levels 2 and 4. The music is memorable, and very fitting to the game. Hardly ever does it get irritating to listen to.


Gameplay: More than 10/10

As is the first 2 categories weren't high enough, this is where the game gets even better! You get a total of 8 levels, all well set up, each increasing the challenge very well. You get some great powerups for your gun, like Flame, Laser, and Splitshot. The enemies are fast and furious, and the action is intense! 2 of the levels have more of a 1st person kind of view to them, yet you are able to see your player. These levels stop the game from getting repetitive, yet the game would've been great still without em! If you're a more experienced player like me, you'll love this game. It ironically didn't take me too long to beat, but it's a lot of fun!

The challenge is high. Each player only has one hit, and they start out with only 3 lives. You only get 3 continues as well, and you'll find yourself wishing you had infitive pretty quickly! The enemies come at ya nonstop, so you have to beware!

The replay value is actually pretty good. This game is fun to play again with another player, and it's great fun to play again after you've beaten it! Make sure it's part of your collection!

Overall: 10/10
A great game when played alone, or with a friend.

Reviewer's Score: 10/10, Originally Posted: 07/27/00, Updated 07/27/00