Contra : The Alien Wars

Contra: The Alien Wars presents a scenario where humanity faces a renewed threat from the Red Falcon, an entity previously defeated. Two new commandos, Jimbo and Sully, are tasked with stopping its armies from eradicating mankind.

The gameplay is primarily a side-scrolling action shooter, but it incorporates several variations. While most levels involve progressing horizontally and eliminating enemies, two distinct stages shift to a top-down perspective, requiring the completion of specific mission objectives with greater freedom of movement.

Mechanically, the player character has enhanced capabilities compared to earlier series entries. These include the ability to carry two weapons simultaneously and to fire in eight directions when stationary. Movement options are expanded to allow climbing on walls, grabbing poles, and operating tanks, with certain environmental elements being destructible. Occasional sequences also feature motorcycle segments.