Over the years, the Contra series has had its ups and downs, something that is normal for any long-running series. While some might argue the opposite, most would have to say that the ups in the series came early on ending with Contra III: The Alien Wars. Even though most of the later titles were quality games, they didn’t look or feel like Contra.

With the announcement of Contra 4, many fans of the series were both worried and excited. Way Forward Technology, the developer, had promised a classic Contra game, but could they deliver an experience worthy to be the true successor to Contra 3: The Alien Wars? The answer is yes, they could and they did. Everything about Contra 4 screams classic Contra gaming, which should make some long-time fans very happy.

Gameplay:
If you’ve never been a fan of the Contra series, this game isn’t going to change your opinion at all. The formula hasn’t changed at all from the original titles. You still take control of a soldier running through a side scrolling level while getting power ups and shooting down baddies. Occasionally there is pseudo 3D level to tackle, but, unlike Contra 3’s top down levels, these levels work really well and actually add variety to the game. The only new element to the game is the ability to use a grappling hook to grab onto hooks and monkey bars. The developers were smart to add this move because it helps span the action across the two screens, and actually makes the game itself work on the DS.

8.5/10

Visuals:
Just like everything else in this game, the visuals are homage to the earlier Contra titles. All of the sprites, backgrounds, and animations are very nicely done, but nothing mind blowing. Then again, you will be trying to keep up with all the action so you won’t even have time to notice anything besides where your next enemy is.

Good level design stops the space in between the screens from being a problem. 

7/10  

Audio:
Just like with the visuals, there is so much action going on during the game that you most likely won’t notice the music. If you do get a chance to focus on the music, then you will hear classic audio that will make any fan giddy. Nothing really sticks out as amazing, but the energetic tunes are nice to listen to and fit in well with the game.

7/10

Lasting Appeal:
Wow. This game is hard, and when I say hard, I mean REALLY HARD. Luckily there are three difficulties to choose from, but even on easy, this game is very hard. Even with ten lives and five continues, easy mode takes a lot of skill and memorization to beat. This game will definitely go down as one of the most difficult games this generation.

Thankfully though, you do get rewarded for your hard work. After beating easy mode, you will unlock a challenge mode where you can then unlock NES versions of Contra and Super Contra. The only thing missing from the NES games is multiplayer support, but three games for the price of one is still a good deal.

8/10

Overall:
Playing Contra has never felt as good as it does with this game. This is one of the few games that you actually feel like you have accomplished something when you beat it. Getting enough to skill to actually beat it takes time and effort, but luckily, the game stays fun the whole time. If you stick with the game long enough to unlock anything, then you will find plenty of things to do. This is a Contra game that fans can finally be proud of.

Gameplay: 8.5/10

Visuals: 7/10

Audio: 7/10

Lasting Appeal: 8/10

Overall: 8/10

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