Contra similar games & best alternatives

Contra

Arcade • 1987

Should you play it?

What works

  • Tight and responsive controls
  • Challenging and rewarding gameplay
  • Iconic co-op mode
  • Memorable weapons and power-ups
  • High replayability

Things to keep in mind

  • Extreme difficulty may frustrate some players
  • Limited narrative and character development
  • Linear level design with minimal exploration
  • Lack of customization or creative expression
  • Visibility issues with some enemy projectiles

What to play next

Top picks

Games that feels the closest overall

More creative

Games that feels like Contra but with more room to create and customize · 16 games

Less social

Games that feels like Contra but with less teamwork and cooperation · 10 games

More expressive

Games that feels like Contra but with more self-expression and customization · 9 games

Less intimate

Games that feels like Contra but with less focus on close relationships · 4 games

Others

Other games that might remind you of Contra · 2 games

Choose your own criteria ->

Last update: 19/09/2026