Contra Force (USA)

Contra Force (USA) on the NES is a significantly different entry compared to the traditional Contra series. Instead of the linear side-scrolling or vertical-scrolling run-and-gun gameplay, Contra Force offers a more tactical experience with squad selection and character switching during missions.

Players begin by choosing two of the four available members of the "Contra Force" special ops team:

• Burns: The team leader, proficient with assault rifles and able to throw grenades.
• Smith: The heavy weapons expert, utilizing machine guns and mines.
• Iron: The explosives specialist, armed with grenade launchers and time bombs.
• Beans: The sniper and decoy expert, using a sniper rifle and capable of deploying a decoy to distract enemies.

Each character has their own unique starting weapon set and special abilities, allowing for diverse tactical approaches.

A unique aspect of Contra Force is the ability to switch between the two chosen characters during gameplay. Players select two characters before starting a stage, and the second character can be controlled by AI or kept in reserve. This allows players to flexibly change tactics depending on the situation. For example, using Iron to destroy obstacles with time bombs, then switching to Burns to engage enemies with his assault rifle.

The gameplay is still primarily a scrolling shooter, but it incorporates a mix of horizontal and some vertical scrolling stages. The main objective is to eliminate all enemies, overcome obstacles, and defeat the boss at the end of each stage.

The game also features a weapon upgrade system, though not through picking up power-ups dropped by enemies like in original Contra titles. Instead, players collect weapon icons to upgrade their current character's gun or to gain "shields" which enhance defensive capabilities.

The graphics and sound of Contra Force are typical of the NES era, with detailed character sprites and environments. However, the game often suffers from noticeable slowdown when too many objects are on screen, especially during two-player co-op.

While not as highly acclaimed as the classic Contra titles, Contra Force still provides a unique experience with its tactical elements and character-switching mechanic, making it a notable title in the NES library.