Contra: Operation Galuga Review (xxadonisxx)
Contra: Operation Galuga brings the explosive, no-holds-barred action of the iconic Contra franchise into the modern era while retaining everything fans love about the series. Developed as a continuation of the legendary run-and-gun formula, this game blends nostalgic gameplay with new mechanics to deliver a thrilling experience that will keep you coming back for more, especially if you're a fan of high-octane, relentless action.
As with most Contra games, the plot in Operation Galuga is secondary to the action. But for the sake of context, the game takes place in a war-torn future where elite soldiers are tasked with stopping an alien invasion and foiling the plans of a rogue military faction. The narrative doesn’t aim to revolutionize storytelling—it’s about blowing stuff up and saving the day.
This simplistic approach to the plot works well here, as it keeps the focus squarely on the gameplay, which is what Contra does best. However, the visuals and set pieces give a sense of scale and stakes, with destructible environments and massive bosses offering a cinematic feel to the chaos.
Contra: Operation Galuga stays true to the core mechanics that made the franchise legendary—run, gun, and never stop moving. The gameplay is a mix of side-scrolling action and intense bullet-hell sequences, requiring quick reflexes, precise platforming, and a willingness to die... a lot.
The controls are tight and responsive, with classic weapons like the spread gun, flamethrower, and laser making their return. The game also introduces a few new power-ups and gadgets to spice things up, adding extra layers of strategy to the combat. The most exciting new feature is the "Galuga Suit," which gives the player a temporary upgrade that turns them into a nearly unstoppable force of nature—perfect for surviving the most insane moments.
What really stands out in Operation Galuga is the new cooperative multiplayer mode, which allows two players to team up for even more chaotic action. The team dynamic adds a lot of fun and challenge, especially when facing off against the huge, screen-filling bosses that the Contra series is known for. That said, the game can get a bit overwhelming with the sheer volume of projectiles and enemies onscreen, but that's part of the thrill.
The game’s art style blends 2D and 3D elements, delivering a visual feast of destruction. Explosions, bullet trails, and enemy designs are all sharp and detailed, with large, intimidating bosses that demand your full attention. The environments—ranging from alien-infested jungles to high-tech military bases—are beautifully rendered and offer a variety of sights that help break up the frantic pace of gameplay.
The animations are smooth, with enemies moving in varied and unpredictable patterns, which keeps the player on their toes. The colorful explosions and chaotic firefights make every stage feel like an epic battle, with no room to catch your breath.
The music in Contra: Operation Galuga keeps the energy high with a mix of driving, adrenaline-pumping tracks that accompany each mission. The soundtrack isn’t quite as memorable as the classic Contra tunes, but it does a great job of complementing the fast-paced action. The sound effects—explosions, gunfire, and the satisfying pew-pew of lasers—add to the intense atmosphere.
Voice acting is minimal but functional, with a few shout-outs from the characters during key moments. The lack of chatter between the characters keeps the focus on the gameplay and adds to the feeling of isolation in the chaotic world.
Contra: Operation Galuga is a thrilling ride for both long-time fans of the franchise and newcomers alike. It combines the classic Contra formula with enough new features to keep things exciting, like the cooperative mode and upgraded mechanics. The game can be brutally challenging, but it’s also incredibly satisfying, with tight controls and a relentless pace that keeps you hooked from beginning to end.
If you’re looking for a game that rewards skill, reflexes, and teamwork, this one’s for you. While it’s not perfect—some may find the difficulty spikes a bit punishing—Operation Galuga succeeds in delivering what it set out to do: pure, unadulterated action.
Rating: 8/10