Contra: Operation Galuga

In what ways might Contra: Operation Galuga disappoint fans of the series? None. How, on the other hand, could it bring in new players who are not familiar with the arcade? With adrenaline-pumping action along challenging levels in which to fight your way through with a devastating weaponry, advancing one meter after another until the boss challenge. We are dealing with a bare-bones run and gun platformer in which the few extra contents are a real plus and not a formality because nowadays everyone has to have them. These are Bill and Lance's best adventures, and the two new characters are also very charismatic. Do you just want to shoot like hell? You’ll love it.

Operation Galuga brings with it everything a Contra fan needs, without incurring risks or radical changes that could ruin its essence. The game is entertaining to have a good time with friends thanks to the local multiplayer option.

Contra: Operation Galuga revitalizes the classic run-and-gun arcade essence of the original Contra series. Developed by WayForward, it embraces the franchise's roots with engaging character dynamics, challenging gameplay, and a low-barrier-of-entry narrative that's delightfully campy. Featuring a mix of old and new characters, each bringing unique weapon proficiencies and environmental abilities, the game encourages players to master its eight stages through strategic customization and skillful play.

A proper "reboot" of the series, with eight interesting levels, plenty of elements to unlock, nice gameplay and weak visuals.

Contra: Operation Galuga is ruthlessly authentic to its roots. In the right hands, the simple gameplay loop should satisfy and bring a much-welcomed dose of nostalgia. However, the fun shouldn't last many hours, and will yield more for players who are keen on challenges and the "replay factor".

Contra: Operation Galuga finally allows the series to reconnect with its origins to once again become a staple of “run & gun”. Even if its artistic direction spoils part of the experience, we definitely find the original spirit of the franchise. Weapon management has been completely redesigned and the game is now teeming with multiple bonuses and improvements to unlock. The frenzy of Arcade mode playable with 4 players in coop compensates for the lack of readability specific to certain levels as well as the lifespan 100% focused on scoring. And if the feeling of déjà vu is sometimes tenacious, it is it which makes the link with the mythical origins of the saga.

With its excellent level design, challenging gameplay, and twists on the classic formula, Contra: Operation Galuga offers a compelling reimagining of one of the most beloved arcade games ever made. However, despite its strengths, the game's short campaign length, limited amount of content and lack of online multiplayer may deter some players, especially considering its price. While the inclusion of extra characters and a Challenge Mode adds some variety, they fail to provide a good reason to continue playing the game after having gone through the eight stages multiple times.

Returning to the roots of the series, Contra Operation Galuga offers an entertaining experience for dedicated fans. However, it may lack innovation and fail to introduce fresh elements to captivate a broader audience.

The soldiers of Contra: Operation Galuga have the right moves for this mission, but the steep cost, short length, and awkward perspectives lead to a less-than-perfect execution.

Fossilizing yourself on the past can sometimes be counterproductive, and the risk of inheriting its strengths and weaknesses is high. Contra Operation Galuga's level design hasn't always thrilled us, and we feel the same about the artistic direction behind the experience. The game, however, winks at those nostalgic for the saga, who will have no difficulty feeling at ease in tackling the missions throughout the Galuga archipelago, undoubtedly capable of entertaining long-time fans.

Would Contra: Operation Galuga be a better game if it was shown in 2D pixel style? I don't think the problem is the leap to 3D graphics, but the overall implementation. But having picked up the pace of the game well, having managed to integrate the current lives and perks system so as not to penalise so much with difficulty and having got some well-designed levels and bosses, at least Konami and WayForward have a good basis for the series to re-establish itself and the Alien Wars will be unleashed again.

Although the remake went through the HD process and offered the old good gameplay with modern graphics, bonus perks, new characters and a challenge mode, but for that exorbitant price, the player would expect more than just 8 levels and around three hours of gameplay.

It’s slightly above par for a game in general and below it for Contra. Despite my complaints, I enjoyed swaths of the game when playing with Bill Rizer, but not enough to want to replay it endlessly. The Contra series has done much worse, but it’s also done much better. Contra: Operation Galuga manages only to be a run-and-shrug shooter.

Contra: Operation Galuga has it where it counts. It feels like classic Contra in all the ways that matter, and a series of changes and upgrades--from minor tweaks like auto-equipping weapons to major new elements like the perks shop--are just enough to make it feel smooth and modern. This may not be a modern classic, but it shows how a classic series like Contra can feel fresh again.