Contra - The Alien Wars (SGB Enhanced)
Fight the Alien Invasion
Experience the intense side-scrolling action of Contra - The Alien Wars on Game Boy. Fight an alien invasion with Bill Rizer and Lance Bean in this enhanced SGB version.
You will navigate through five distinct stages, fighting off waves of enemies using a variety of weapons. The game features side-scrolling action where you move left and right while shooting upward and forward. However, the experience is not limited to just running and gunning. Several stages shift to an overhead perspective, giving you a bird's-eye view of the battlefield as you clear areas of hostiles. While the original SNES version included rotating overhead views, this Game Boy port keeps those perspectives fixed due to hardware limitations, but the intense action remains intact.
As you progress through the levels, you will encounter numerous enemy types and powerful bosses. The core gameplay loop involves collecting power-ups dropped by defeated foes to upgrade your arsenal. You can choose from a range of weapons, each with unique strengths against different enemy patterns. One notable change in this port is the removal of the Laser Gun found in the original SNES release. In this version, you can only hold one weapon at a time, forcing you to make strategic choices about which gun is best for the current situation.
When the screen becomes too crowded with enemies or you are taking heavy fire, you can use smart bombs. These powerful items clear the screen of most threats, giving you a moment to breathe and reposition. In this Game Boy version, the smart bombs are described as even stronger than in the original, providing a crucial lifeline during the most difficult encounters. This enhancement makes surviving the later stages slightly more manageable, though the challenge remains high.
The game is strictly single-player on the Game Boy, meaning you must rely on your own skills to survive the onslaught. There is no cooperative mode available in this specific version, so every bullet fired and every jump made is up to you. This solitary focus adds to the tension, as you cannot rely on a partner to cover your back while you reload or dodge incoming fire.
One feature from the original game that has been removed is the Jet Bike stage. While this might be missed by some fans, the remaining stages offer enough variety and difficulty to keep you engaged. The side-scrolling sections are packed with enemies that come from all directions, requiring quick reflexes and precise aiming. The overhead stages test your ability to manage multiple threats simultaneously, as you must clear rooms of aliens while avoiding their attacks.
The visual style of this SGB Enhanced version is a key part of the experience. The custom colors and borders make the game feel distinct from other Game Boy titles, adding a layer of polish that enhances the chaotic energy of the battles. The vibrant colors help distinguish between different enemy types and projectiles, which is crucial for survival in such a fast-paced environment.
As you fight your way through the alien forces, you will need to master the movement and shooting mechanics. The controls are responsive, allowing for quick directional changes and accurate firing. However, the sheer number of enemies on screen can be overwhelming, requiring you to prioritize targets and use your smart bombs wisely. Patience is key, as rushing into a room full of enemies without a plan often leads to a quick game over.
The difficulty curve ramps up significantly as you progress through the five stages. Early levels serve as a tutorial for the weapon system and enemy patterns, but later stages demand perfection. Boss fights are particularly intense, requiring you to memorize attack patterns and exploit openings quickly. The lack of a co-op partner means you must be fully prepared for these encounters, as there is no one to share the burden of damage.
Overall, Contra - The Alien Wars offers a condensed but complete run-and-gun experience. It captures the essence of the original SNES title while adapting it effectively for the handheld format. Whether you are a fan of the series or new to the genre, this game provides a thrilling challenge that rewards skill and strategy. The enhanced visuals and improved smart bombs make this version a standout way to experience the alien war on the Game Boy.