Konami has announced Contra Returns, the latest game in the long-running side-scrolling shooter franchise.
Revealed in a trailer that blends both live-action and gameplay footage, Contra Returns will be available exclusively for mobile devices. The game will include new weapons, original characters and over 200 levels, a number that will likely increase through post-launch updates. Gameplay appears to be largely similar to previous entries as players traverse a level of hazards, running-and-gunning their way to victory.
The trailer shows off two cosplayers kitted out to look like Bill Rizer and Lance Bean, the Contra series protagonists, as they prepare for battle. It concludes with a few snippets of gameplay that showcase the game's combat, environments and graphics. Damage numbers appear prevalently in the trailer, leading some to speculate that players will need to level up their heroes.
In terms of characters, players will be able to step back into the boots of Bill Rizer and Lance Bean. Beyond the iconic duo, Contra 4's Sheen and Lucia from Contra: Shattered Soldier will also be playable. Players can look forward to new game modes, including a 1v1 and 3v3 multiplayer modes and the challenging One Life Mode.
Contra Returns is a collaboration between original developer Konami and Tencent TiMi Studios. In 2017, TiMi Studios launched Contra: Return in China and while the two games appear to share many similarities, Contra: Returns is reportedly an entirely original project. How the game will be monetized remains to be seen but there's a good chance it will be free-to-play and will include in-app purchases.
The last Contra game to release in the West was Contra: Rogue Corps. The game was received poorly by fans and critics alike, with many describing it as a shallow cash-in on the franchises' storied legacy.
Contra: Returns launches for Android and iOS devices on July 26. Fans who pre-register for the game will unlock exclusive in-game rewards upon launch.
Source: YouTube