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Contra Anniversary Collection

Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, PC (Microsoft Windows) • 2019

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Quick resume

The Contra Anniversary Collection brings this classic Run and Gun franchise back to modern platforms and a new generation of gamers.

Global score

76/100

Genres

Action, Shooter, Platform, Arcade

Pros

  • Faithful emulation of classic contra games
  • Includes multiple regional versions and branching endings
  • Local co-op multiplayer
  • Save state feature for convenience
  • Nostalgic appeal with bonus digital art book

Cons

  • No online multiplayer or co-op
  • Limited control customization and ui options
  • Some emulation issues and lack of fullscreen options
  • Incomplete series coverage (missing some titles)
  • Repetitive content due to multiple versions of same games

Motivations

  • Autonomy
    4

    "Players can choose different characters in Hard Corps and select paths leading to multiple endings, plus save states allow control over progress."

  • Competence
    4

    "Games are challenging with pattern memorization and skillful play required; save states help but mastery is rewarded."

  • Competition
    -3

    "Focus is on solo or local co-op play with no online multiplayer or ranked modes; achievements exist but no direct player comparison."

  • Continuation
    3

    "High replayability especially with multiple endings and versions; nostalgic appeal encourages habitual play."

  • Cooperation
    3

    "Local co-op supported allowing teamwork, but no online co-op limits broader cooperative play."

  • Creativity
    -2

    "Games follow classic run-and-gun formula with limited player-driven creation or modification."

  • Domination
    -4

    "Interactions are cooperative or solo; no evidence of dominance or power imposition over others."

  • Escapism
    4

    "Strong nostalgic and immersive experience providing distraction and stress relief through classic gameplay."

  • Expectation
    -4

    "Players engage voluntarily out of personal desire and nostalgia, not obligation or external pressure."

  • Experimenting
    2

    "Multiple versions and branching paths in Hard Corps encourage some exploration of game variations."

  • Exploration
    1

    "Some discovery in different versions and branching endings, but mostly familiar level designs."

  • Expression
    -3

    "Limited customization options; players mostly use preset characters and default aesthetics."

  • Fantasy
    4

    "Imaginative sci-fi and alien invasion themes with exaggerated action and fictional settings."

  • Fellowship
    2

    "Local co-op and shared nostalgic interest create some community feeling, but limited online social features."

  • Growth
    3

    "Players develop skills through challenging gameplay and learn enemy patterns; save states aid learning."

  • Health
    -5

    "Traditional sedentary gameplay with no physical activity or health-related features."

  • Idle
    -4

    "Requires focused attention and continuous engagement; not suited for background or casual idle play."

  • Intimacy
    -3

    "Social interaction limited to local co-op; no evidence of close relationship building or emotional sharing."

  • Leadership
    -4

    "No leadership or management roles; players act individually or cooperatively without hierarchical control."

  • Progression
    3

    "Players collect weapons and power-ups, unlock multiple endings, and progress through levels."

  • Relaxation
    -2

    "High difficulty and fast-paced action create tension; save states ease frustration but challenge remains."

  • Sensation
    3

    "Engaging audiovisuals and intense action provide sensory stimulation and excitement."

  • Status
    -3

    "No social status or leaderboard recognition; achievements exist but limited social visibility."

  • Story
    2

    "Some narrative elements and branching endings especially in Hard Corps; overall story is simple and secondary."

  • Strategy
    3

    "Players use pattern memorization, weapon management, and level navigation strategies to succeed."

  • Thrill
    4

    "High tension and suspense from challenging gameplay and risk of failure create thrilling experiences."

  • Value
    3

    "Good value for nostalgic fans with multiple games and versions; some complaints about price and missing titles."

  • Violence
    4

    "Core gameplay involves combat, shooting, and destruction of enemies and bosses."

  • Survival
    3

    "Players must avoid death and manage limited lives; save states reduce harshness but survival remains key."

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    Last update: 06/03/2026