Review

Contra: Operation Galuga

As a fan of arcade games from my youth, I’ve always been drawn to tough, action-packed classics. Among them, Contra stood out as a challenging yet thrilling experience. Now, with Contra: Operation Galuga, I got the chance to relive those 2D action-packed days, with a modern twist. But does this reboot bring the series back to life or fall short like the less successful entries? Let’s find out.

Story

Contra: Operation Galuga reimagines the story of the original game. Set in the future, a terrorist group known as “Red Falcon” has taken over the Galuga Islands near New Zealand, threatening the world with a sinister plan. Elite commandos Bill Rizer and Lance Bean are sent to stop them, uncovering a global threat along the way. Unlike the original, which focused heavily on gameplay, this reboot includes cutscenes and dialogue to enhance the storytelling across its eight levels.

Gameplay

The goal in Contra: Operation Galuga is simple: progress through levels, defeat enemies, and survive intense boss fights. The level design and enemy placement provide a serious challenge, even on the easiest difficulty. Each of the eight stages is unique, offering a variety of settings and gameplay elements to keep things fresh.

You start as Bill Rizer and Lance Bean, but additional characters can be unlocked as you play through the campaign or purchased from the in-game store. Each character has unique abilities that change the gameplay experience.

The gameplay retains the classic Contra style, featuring familiar weapons like lasers and flamethrowers. Each weapon can be upgraded to a second level, either by collecting duplicates during missions or purchasing upgrades using points earned by completing objectives.

Weapons also include an overcharge mechanic, which unleashes powerful special effects but destroys the weapon in the process. This adds a strategic layer to the game as you decide when to use or preserve these upgrades.

Graphics

The graphics in Contra: Operation Galuga are stunning, breathing new life into the classic franchise. Vibrant visuals make the game feel dynamic and exciting, setting it apart from its older counterparts. However, the visual effects can sometimes feel overwhelming, potentially straining the player’s eyes during intense moments.

Final Verdict

7/10

With its challenging levels, updated mechanics, and engaging visuals, Contra: Operation Galuga successfully reintroduces one of the best arcade franchises in gaming history. However, its short campaign, limited content, and lack of online multiplayer may leave players wanting more after completing the game’s eight stages.