The game uses a side-scrolling perspective and is played as a single-player action shooter. Players cycle through four operatives, each with different durability, movement, and weapon handling. Levels feature streets, buildings, and enemy strongholds, with weapon pickups, power-ups, and frequent firefights. Movement, jumping, and shooting are the main inputs, while progress is made by clearing each stage and advancing through increasingly crowded combat zones.

Burns

A frontline combatant who serves as a durable, direct-fire specialist.

Beans

A technical, agile operative suited to tricky terrain and quick repositioning.

Iron

A heavy-duty character with strong survivability and steady firepower.

Stone

A fast assault member who excels at close-range pressure and mobility.

Learn which operative fits each stage and avoid rushing into blind corners. Keep moving to reduce incoming fire, especially in narrow urban areas where enemies can attack from multiple directions. When you acquire a strong weapon, play more carefully and use it to clear threats before advancing. Prioritize the most dangerous enemy units first, then move forward methodically.

Tips and tricks

Constant movement is safer than standing still and trading shots.

Tips and tricks

Clear enemies from upper or rear angles first to avoid being surrounded.

Tips and tricks

Switch operatives based on the stage layout if you get stuck on a section.

User Reviews

Players often praise the character variety, but many feel the stage design is more experimental than the main Contra games.

User Reviews

Some enjoy its urban warfare theme and weapon system, while others say it does not feel as pure as classic Contra.