The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) is a legendary console that brought countless hours of entertainment to gamers around the world. One of the most beloved games to emerge from this era is Contra III: The Alien Wars, but another game on the NES, which garnered significant attention during its time and remains popular among retro gaming enthusiasts today, is Contra: Return of the War. Here's an in-depth review of Contra: Return of the War, focusing on its gameplay mechanics, controls, graphics, sound, replay value, difficulty level, age rating, and availability.

Game Overview

Contra: Return of the War is a side-scrolling action game developed by Konami, the same company behind the popular Metal Gear series. Released in 1987 for the NES, it marked the third installment in the Contra series, following the success of the first two games.

In this version, players take on the role of two soldiers, Will and Lance, who are fighting against an alien invasion. The game's storyline is somewhat different from its predecessors, with a greater emphasis on action and less on storytelling.

Gameplay Mechanics

The gameplay mechanics in Contra: Return of the War are where it truly shines. This side-scroller is all about fast-paced action and strategic movement. Players control either Will or Lance as they navigate through a series of levels, fighting hordes of alien enemies and bosses.

One of the standout features of this game is its use of multiple players. Contra: Return of the War supports two-player co-op gameplay, allowing friends to team up and take on the alien threat together. This feature adds a new layer of depth to the gameplay experience, making it even more challenging and enjoyable.

The controls in Contra: Return of the War are also worth mentioning. The game's use of the NES controller's A button for jumping is still one of the most iconic controller layouts in gaming history. While some players may find the jump mechanic to be a bit tricky at first, once mastered, it allows for seamless movement across the screen.

The alien enemies and bosses in Contra: Return of the War are also noteworthy. The game features an array of enemy types, each with its unique behavior and attacks. Some of these enemies can be easily defeated, while others require strategy and quick reflexes to overcome.

Graphics and Sound

When released in 1987, Contra: Return of the War boasted impressive graphics for a NES game at that time. The pre-rendered backgrounds were detailed, with vibrant colors and intricate patterns. While they may seem simple by today's standards, these graphics added to the overall sense of immersion and tension during gameplay.

The sound design in this game is equally impressive. The music, composed by Satoe Terashima and Takushi Hasegawa, perfectly complements the on-screen action. Each level has its own distinct theme song, which, while catchy at first, can become repetitive after extended playtime.

Replay Value

Contra: Return of the War is a game that encourages replay value from all angles. The two-player co-op mode opens up new avenues for challenge and exploration. Players can experiment with different strategies to take down difficult enemies or find alternative routes through levels to discover hidden secrets.

Additionally, Contra's infamous difficulty curve means that players will need to revisit levels multiple times before they master the skills needed to progress further. This encourages persistence and repetition, which in turn creates a more engaging gaming experience.

Difficulty Level

One of the most contentious issues surrounding Contra: Return of the War is its difficulty level. While some may view it as overly hard or frustratingly challenging, others see it as an integral part of its appeal. The game requires patience, quick reflexes, and strategic thinking from players, making each victory all the more satisfying.

However, there are instances where the game becomes unwieldy and difficult for some players to progress through without losing all their lives in frustration. This can make certain parts of the game daunting or even discouraging for some players.

Age Rating

The age rating for Contra: Return of the War varies by region. In Europe, it is rated 12+ by PEGI (Pan European Game Information) due to its violent content and occasional jump scares. In North America, the ESRB (Entertainment Software Rating Board) rates this game M for Mature audiences only due to blood, violence, and intense action.

Availability

Contra: Return of the War is widely available on various platforms, including NES cartridges, home computer ports, and even a remake for mobile devices. This accessibility means that gamers from all over the world can experience this iconic game in its original form or enjoy it through alternative versions.

The NES version remains one of the most sought-after retro games for collectors due to its relative rarity. Those looking to play Contra: Return of the War may need to seek out a used copy, either online or at local vintage gaming shops.

In conclusion, Contra: Return of the War is an experience that needs no introduction. With its addictive gameplay mechanics, vibrant graphics, and immersive sound design, it has cemented its place as one of the greatest games in NES history. Its age rating of 12+ by PEGI reflects some aspects of the game that might make it less suitable for younger players.

If you're a retro gaming enthusiast or just looking to explore the best that Nintendo had to offer during its heyday, Contra: Return of the War is an absolute must-play experience.