The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) is one of the most iconic and influential video game consoles of all time. Released in 1985, it revolutionized the gaming industry with its iconic characters, addictive gameplay, and vast library of games. Among the many memorable titles available for the NES, one game stands out for its unique blend of action and horror elements: Contra: The Evil Within.

In this article, we'll delve into the world of Contra: The Evil Within, exploring its gameplay mechanics, storyline, and overall impact on the gaming industry. We'll also examine the age rating available for this game and provide guidance for parents considering it for their children.

Gameplay Mechanics

Contra: The Evil Within is a run-and-gun action game developed by Konami. Released in 1987 for the NES, the game follows the story of Bill and Lance, two commandos on a mission to stop an alien invasion. The gameplay is fast-paced and intense, with an emphasis on quick reflexes and precise timing.

Players control either Bill or Lance as they navigate through increasingly challenging levels, fighting against hordes of enemy soldiers and bosses. The game features a variety of weapons, including guns, grenades, and bombs, which can be used to take down enemies and overcome obstacles.

One of the most distinctive features of Contra: The Evil Within is its use of "continues." Players can collect power-ups that grant them extra lives, allowing them to continue playing even after losing all their health. This mechanic adds an extra layer of challenge and excitement to the game, as players must carefully manage their resources to succeed.

Storyline

The storyline of Contra: The Evil Within is relatively straightforward. The game takes place in a fictional world where aliens have invaded Earth, threatening humanity's very existence. Bill and Lance are part of an elite team tasked with stopping the invasion and saving the planet.

As players progress through the game, they'll encounter various characters who provide context and insight into the story. However, the narrative is largely absent from the gameplay itself, focusing instead on action and exploration.

Impact on the Gaming Industry

Contra: The Evil Within had a significant impact on the gaming industry, particularly in the early 1990s. Its innovative gameplay mechanics, including the use of continues and the emphasis on quick reflexes, influenced numerous other games in the action genre.

The game's success also spawned a series of sequels and spin-offs, including Super C, Contra Force, and Contra: Hard Corps. These titles built upon the foundation established by Contra: The Evil Within, introducing new characters, gameplay mechanics, and storylines while maintaining the core elements that made the original game so beloved.

Age Rating

Contra: The Evil Within is rated T for Teen by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB). This rating is based on the game's content, which includes:

• Violence: Players will encounter intense firefights and battles against enemy soldiers, as well as bosses that can be defeated through combat.
• Blood: There are some instances of blood splatter during gameplay, although it's not excessively graphic.
• Mild Language: Some characters in the game use mild profanity, but it's not excessive or explicit.

Conclusion

Contra: The Evil Within is a classic NES game that continues to entertain and challenge gamers today. Its unique blend of action and horror elements, combined with its innovative gameplay mechanics, make it a must-play for fans of the genre.

If you're considering playing Contra: The Evil Within with your children, we recommend checking out the ESRB rating and being mindful of the game's content. While the game is generally suitable for older children, parental discretion is advised due to the occasional mild language and violence.

Additional Information

• Developer: Konami
• Release Date: 1987 (NES)
• Genre: Action, Run-and-Gun
• Rating: T for Teen by ESRB

If you're looking for more information about Contra: The Evil Within or want to explore other classic NES games, be sure to check out our list of recommended titles and reviews.

Other Notable NES Games

• Super Mario Bros.
• The Legend of Zelda
• DuckTales
• Mega Man
• Castlevania

These games are all classics in their own right, offering a mix of action, adventure, and puzzle-solving that will keep you entertained for hours on end. Be sure to check out our reviews and recommendations for these titles to see which ones suit your gaming tastes best.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Contra: The Evil Within is a must-play game for fans of the NES era. Its unique blend of action and horror elements, combined with its innovative gameplay mechanics, make it an unforgettable experience. If you're considering playing this game with your children, be sure to check out the ESRB rating and use parental discretion as needed.

We hope you enjoyed this article about Contra: The Evil Within! Let us know in the comments below if you have any questions or suggestions for future articles.