Super Contra
Nov 16, 2002 24 years ago
Super Contra is a Run and Gun-style action game produced by Konami, originally released as a coin-operated arcade game in 1988. It is the sequel to the original Contra and the second game in the Contra series released for the arcades. Like in the original game, the game centers on soldiers Bill Rizer and Lance Bean, who are once again assigned to protect the Earth from an army of alien invaders. The game features standard side-scrolling stages, as well as all new overhead stages in lieu of the original game's "3D" stages.
What it’s like
Super Contra delivers a relentless, high-octane run-and-gun experience defined by its blistering pace and punishing difficulty. You control one of two soldiers battling through linear side-scrolling levels and overhead stages to repel an alien invasion. The core loop is pure adrenaline: constant shooting, dodging, and surviving waves of enemies. While the narrative framework is minimal, serving only as a backdrop for the action, the gameplay shines with tight controls and satisfying weapon variety. The atmosphere is tense and chaotic, amplified by energetic chiptune music and crisp pixel art. A defining feature is its cooperative mode, allowing two players to tackle the challenge together, which significantly alters the dynamic. Progression relies on mastering patterns and enduring repeated failures, offering a raw, arcade-perfect test of reflexes rather than deep narrative engagement or complex systems.
Strong in Co-op / MultiplayerCombatDifficulty / ChallengeGameplay / MechanicsAtmosphere / MoodAudio / MusicPacingVisuals / Art
Keep in mind This game is exceptionally unforgiving and may frustrate players who prefer accessible or casual gaming experiences. The lack of modern quality-of-life features, such as checkpoints or difficulty settings, means failure is frequent and often punishingly repetitive.
AI-generated from catalog data, informed by reviews from indiegamerchick.com, metacritic.com, ign.com, gamespot.com, eurogamer.net, en.wikipedia.org.
Screenshots
Releases
| Platform | Region | Type | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arcade | Worldwide | Full release | 198838 years ago |
| Amiga | Worldwide | Full release | 199036 years ago |
| DOS | Worldwide | Full release | 199036 years ago |
| PC (Microsoft Windows) | Worldwide | Full release | Nov 16, 200224 years ago |
