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Contra
By dgiglio84

Contra...wow! I can't get enough of it. You see, Contra is more than just a game, it's a blessing. Everything about this game is truely amazing. Konami created a masterpiece this time, and I can not thank them enough.

Now, if you know me, you know I absolutley love this game. I have played through this game hundreds of times, but I still can't get enough of it. A lot of times when I go into school, my friends ask me, "yo Gigs, did how many times did you beat Contra last night?". I say, "about three or four". Yes, I love this game THAT MUCH! Okay, enough of my yapping, on with the review.

Contra's graphics are very detailed, and are guarenteed to scare younger kids (I have experience with that). For 1988, they are really amazing. Just take a look at the textures in the Alien's Lair, or the water in the waterfall. The colors add to the graphics. Everything is detailed and colorful, enough said.

The sound effects, much like the graphics, are amazing. All the sound effects are very enhanced and add to the gameplay. What's even more amazing is that each gun makes a different sound, which, for its time, is incredible. The music adds to the intense action.

The gameplay is what makes Contra what it is. It combines standard platform elements with the action of an arcade game. You start in the Jungle and work your way through bases, a waterfall, a snowfield, and a lot more. There are eight stages, each one with a boss at the end. You start off with the regular gun (or as we call it on the GameFAQs message board, the pea shooter), but you soon get power-ups which will enhance your weapon. One hit kills you, and you have three lives. Yeah, this game can be tough, but luckily when you die, you start off back in the same place you were. Also, there is a 30 lives code which will help beginners to this game. I recommend that you use the code until you've gotten enough practice, then try it without the code.

Controlling your character in Contra shouldn't be a problem. Everything is responsive. Dodging bullets takes some practice, but once you get used to it, it's not too bad.

To me, Contra has great replay value, but some people might not want to see the game after they've beaten it. A lot of the enemies in Contra are random, which means you'll have to rely on skill at times rather than memorazation. The game is also unpredictable, which, in my opinion, adds to the replay.

All and all, if you are fan of shooters, you'll most likely like Contra. It is my favorite NES game for a good reason. I also recommend the sequel to Contra, Super C. It's not as good as Contra (of course) but it has the same action and excitement. In closing, I'd just like to say...GET THIS GAME NOW!!!

My Score: 10/10

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