WayForward is reimagining the original Contra for modern systems

Konami is releasing a ‘reimagining’ of the first game in the Contra series, developed by WayForward Technologies.

Contra: Operation Galuga is based on the original Contra (known in Europe as Probotector and Gryzor), which was released in arcades in 1987 and on the NES in 1988.

According to Konami, the new version will bring back “iconic weapons and environments” but will also add “new stages, new enemies and bosses, new play mechanics, an updated power-up system, and modern graphics and sound”.

WayForward, which was originally established 33 years ago, is best known for its consistent stream of high-quality 2D action platformers.

The studio is known for the Shantae series of games, and has also developed the likes of River City Girls, The Mummy: Demastered, Mighty Switch Force and Double Dragon Neon.

Most pertinently, in 2007 it also developed Contra 4, a Nintendo DS sequel that was critically acclaimed upon release with a Metacritic score of 83.

The original Contra was notorious for its difficulty, and was the game that taught many players the ‘Konami Code’ cheat because it gave them 30 lives.

The new version will include three difficulty settings to make the game easier for newcomers, as well as additional challenge options for those looking for a test.

The game will feature a Story mode which supports 2-player co-op, and an Arcade mode which will support up to four players.

Contra: Operation Galuga will be released digitally on Switch, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PS4, Xbox One and PC.

A physical version for consoles will then be released later.