It’s been a while since we’ve had a good Contra game, though we might be in luck as Konami is working with Wayforward on Contra: Operation Galuga, an upcoming run ‘n’ gun game for PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Switch, and PC, and will be launching early 2024. Recently, the two released a new trailer that shows off some familiar faces, along with some new ones who will be joining them later next year.
We get to see Bill Rizer and Lance Bean, the stars of the first few Contra games, and a pair of females (yes!) Lucia and Ariana, followed by a pair of robots, Stanley Ironside and Probotector. Ironically enough, Probotector is the European name for Contra, so I like the bit of trivia/homage.
Contra: Operation Galuga will be a remake of the original Contra game, along with some new additions, such as a Story Mode and Challenge Mode, that will feature 30 missions to overcome. These include speedrunning through stages, fighting with limited ammo, surviving relentless enemy hordes, and more. So far, the game will be a local co-op affair; however, if you go the PC route, you can use Steam’s Remote Play to get players involved.
I loved playing Contra back in the day, yelling at my little brother because he completely sucked at the game, but I wouldn’t give up those memories for anything.
If you wanted to listen to some of the game’s music, Wayforward was kind enough to give us a taste. Tell me that isn’t a mash-up of the original Contra NES/Arcade and Super Contra music first levels…. and if you do, well, you’d be wrong.
#Contra: Operation Galuga launches early next year, but you can get a taste of the adrenaline-pumping soundtrack right now. This tune is a more cinematic approach to the introductory stage of the original @ContraSoldier game! https://t.co/duZ0PnVQTi pic.twitter.com/5KvG5igt2s
— WayForward (@WayForward) October 19, 2023