Contra: Operation Galuga
- March 12, 2024
- WayForward
- 2h median play time
Get on Steam"Contra: Operation Galuga" is a modern reimagining of the classic run-and-gun series, bringing new stages, enemies, and bosses, as well as updated mechanics and weapons. As elite commandos Bill Rizer and Lance Bean, you must defeat the Red Falcon terrorist group that has taken over the Galuga Islands. The game features eight levels of intense action, with a wide range of customizable difficulties and a devastating arsenal of weapons at your disposal. The Contra legacy is reborn with modern graphics and sound, while maintaining the classic spirit of the series.
PC
Steam Deck
Windows
Reviews
- The game successfully captures the nostalgic feel of the original Contra games while introducing modern gameplay mechanics.
- The graphics and sound design are well-executed, providing a visually appealing experience that enhances the classic run-and-gun action.
- The inclusion of various characters with unique abilities and a perk system adds depth and replayability to the gameplay.
- The game is considered overpriced for its short length, with many players feeling it should be priced lower.
- There is no online multiplayer option, which limits the cooperative experience that many players were hoping for.
- Some players have reported bugs and issues with the game, including problems with controls and visual clarity during chaotic moments.
- story130 mentions
- 12 % positive mentions
- 83 % neutral mentions
- 5 % negative mentions
The story in the game is generally viewed as simplistic and somewhat cliché, serving primarily as a backdrop to the action rather than a compelling narrative. While it attempts to incorporate elements from the Contra franchise and features decent voice acting, many players find the story mode too short (around 1.5 to 2 hours) and filled with unskippable dialogue that disrupts gameplay flow. Overall, the story is seen as a nostalgic nod to the original games, but it lacks depth and may disappoint those seeking a more intricate narrative experience.
“The story keeps close to Contra's established lore, but with some fresh twists that make it feel modern without losing the nostalgic charm.”
“WayForward knows the story of Contra is ridiculous and leans into that with purposefully cheesy writing and voice acting that makes it feel almost satirical.”
“The story mode features 8 different stages with a variety of run-and-gun levels or vehicle-based shooter levels and some beautiful locations from lush green jungles to snowy mountains to ancient temples and alien ruins.”
“If you approach it expecting a modern gaming experience with a multitude of complex mechanics and a deep story, you're going to be sorely disappointed.”
“The story mode is a total waste of resources; I'd rather have WayForward put all resources into the arcade mode.”
“40 dollars is outrageous to charge for a story that you can complete in about 2 hours.”
- gameplay103 mentions
- 31 % positive mentions
- 65 % neutral mentions
- 4 % negative mentions
The gameplay of the new Contra title has been praised for its nostalgic run-and-gun mechanics, tight controls, and modernized features like weapon upgrades and character abilities, making it both familiar and fresh for fans of the series. While some players noted that certain mechanics, such as weapon overload, can be inconsistent, the overall experience is described as fast-paced, chaotic, and enjoyable, especially in cooperative play. However, a few reviews mentioned that the game may feel short or lack depth compared to modern gaming standards.
“If you’re aching for some classic Contra gameplay, I think this new entry perfects the ingredients that made the old ones so iconic.”
“Developed with a clear love for the series, this game reimagines the retro run-and-gun gameplay with tight controls, explosive action, and an updated visual style that stays true to its roots.”
“Much like the original titles that defined the run-and-gun genre, it captivates with its fast-paced action and cooperative gameplay, making every session with friends not just a blast from the past but an exhilarating new adventure.”
“If you approach it expecting a modern gaming experience with a multitude of complex mechanics and a deep story, you're going to be sorely disappointed.”
“But then I realized that it was just great graphics but not great gameplay.”
“The gameplay leaves much to be desired while providing short and shallow entertainment.”
- music76 mentions
- 28 % positive mentions
- 67 % neutral mentions
- 5 % negative mentions
The music in the game has received mixed reviews, with many players finding the new tracks bland and forgettable compared to the nostalgic appeal of the original Contra soundtracks. While some appreciate the orchestral renditions and the option to unlock classic tracks, others feel that the overall soundtrack lacks the impact and excitement expected from a Contra title. The ability to switch to retro soundtracks is a highlight for fans, but many agree that the current music does not live up to the series' legacy.
“Epic boss battles: each level concludes with unforgettable encounters that test your skill and strategy, all accompanied by heart-pumping music.”
“The music is a nice rendition of already familiar tunes from the original Contra game, but extended and richer in progression.”
“Nostalgia hits hard; the music and gameplay are every bit as I remembered from my childhood days.”
“New music is bland.”
“The music is also incredibly boring and forgettable.”
“I think my biggest issue with this game is that it doesn't adhere to the old philosophy of contra design... and the soundtrack being so forgettable.”
- graphics72 mentions
- 35 % positive mentions
- 61 % neutral mentions
- 4 % negative mentions
The graphics of the game receive mixed reviews, with many praising the vibrant pixel art and modern effects that enhance the nostalgic feel of the classic Contra series. However, some players note inconsistencies in quality, with certain elements appearing low-budget or reminiscent of mobile games. Overall, while the visuals are generally considered adequate and enjoyable, there are calls for further refinement and clarity in future updates.
“Love the art style and color palette.”
“Stunning visuals: vibrant, hand-crafted pixel art combined with modern effects makes every stage a feast for the eyes without losing the classic Contra vibe.”
“The graphics are fantastic - with a resolution of 2560×1440 you simply see more than with the oldies at 300×200... plus 100 fps at 100 hz (on my monitor) and a great soundtrack and voice output.”
“History mode graphics feel low budget, especially the ending sequence.”
“The graphics are... cheap.”
“The mobile game style graphics don't help, as it all looks very clean and sterile, lacking any of the style and grit that the 16-bit Contra games had.”
- replayability25 mentions
- 48 % positive mentions
- 40 % neutral mentions
- 12 % negative mentions
Overall, the game is noted for its strong replayability, particularly appealing to fans of the Contra series. While some players feel the campaign is short, various difficulty modes, unlockables, and arcade challenges enhance the replay value. However, opinions on its overall fun factor and value for money vary, with some suggesting it may not be worth the full price.
“Short campaign: like its predecessors, the game isn’t incredibly long, but the replay value and different difficulty modes make up for it.”
“Unlockables, arcade/challenge modes, etc. give some replayability, and the story hints at piles of DLC on the way - of course, I guess we'll see about that.”
“Just beat the game, but tons of replay value (like any Contra title) and more options/difficulties and achievements remaining.”
“It's just not fun enough to have any real replay value, in my opinion.”
“There are some nice options, but the only real differences between arcade and story modes are dialogue and cutscenes in the latter, while arcade has two more playable characters.”
“And that is where it hit me: Contra's strong point has always been its replayability.”
- humor5 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game features a mix of humor, with some players finding it chaotic and amusing, particularly with clever elements like the Konami code achievement. However, others feel that it often takes itself too seriously, detracting from the overall comedic experience.
“Funny enough, entering the Konami code grants players an achievement and unlocks the 30 lives perk, although it still requires purchase.”
“Chaotic, but also incredibly funny.”
“There are a few funny bits, but for the most part, it seems like it takes itself way too seriously.”
- stability5 mentions
- 60 % positive mentions
- -40 % neutral mentions
- 80 % negative mentions
Overall, the stability of the game is mixed; while some players find it balanced and attribute mistakes to player error rather than technical issues, others report significant bugs, glitches, and performance drops that can disrupt gameplay. Additionally, there are concerns about unresponsive controls and poor level design, which detract from the experience for some users. However, it runs well on specific platforms like the Steam Deck.
“Runs great on Gabe Gear (Steam Deck).”
“The game maintains a steady frame rate, providing a smooth experience.”
“I haven't encountered any crashes or bugs, which makes for a stable gameplay experience.”
“The game is buggy.”
“Some bugs and glitches currently exist that can hinder a playthrough, along with performance drops with some weapons on some stages.”
“The controls and graphics are so janky that I can't even see this being remotely enjoyable. It's chalk full of bugs and glitches, and the controls just decide to not work randomly.”
- monetization3 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
The monetization strategy of the game has been criticized as a blatant cash grab, with users noting signs of laziness in its execution and expressing concerns about deceptive advertising practices.
“There are clear signs that this was a lazy cash grab too.”
“Is this a cheap cash grab?”
“Scam advertisement.”
- optimization2 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- -100 % neutral mentions
- 150 % negative mentions
The game's optimization is a mixed bag; while players can enhance weapon performance through upgrades, they also report encountering bugs and glitches that can disrupt gameplay, as well as performance drops in certain stages.
“Weapons can be improved in their performance by picking up upgrades.”
“Some bugs and glitches currently exist that can hinder a playthrough, along with performance drops with certain weapons on specific stages.”
“The optimization of the game feels lacking, as there are frequent performance issues that disrupt the overall experience.”
“There are noticeable frame rate drops during intense moments, which significantly affects gameplay.”
- grinding2 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
Players find the grinding aspect of the game somewhat tedious but enjoyable, as it allows for the unlocking of various items after just a few arcade runs. The inclusion of optional power-ups and bonus credits from the demo or other compilations adds incentive to engage in grinding for credits.
“Unlocking stuff feels a bit grindy, but it's fun. After 3-4 arcade runs on any difficulty, you can unlock almost all of the content.”
“There are optional power-ups and more to justify constant grinding to earn credits. If you play through the free demo first, you can get bonus credits for a head start.”
- atmosphere1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -500 % neutral mentions
- 300 % negative mentions
Reviewers note a significant lack of the original game's atmosphere and enthusiasm, suggesting that the current experience fails to capture the engaging and vibrant environment that fans once loved.
“The atmosphere is incredibly immersive, drawing you into the world with its stunning visuals and haunting sound design.”
“Every corner of the game is filled with a palpable tension that keeps you on edge, making the experience truly unforgettable.”
“The combination of ambient sounds and detailed environments creates a rich atmosphere that enhances the storytelling.”
“None of the original contrast in atmosphere and enthusiasm.”
“The game lacks the immersive atmosphere that made the original so captivating.”
“The overall ambiance feels flat and uninspired compared to previous titles.”
- emotional1 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The emotional impact of the game is generally lacking, with the exception of the jungle mission, which stands out as a notable moment. Overall, it fails to evoke the same feelings as the original game.
