Returning to the arcade-like experience of Contra: Operation Galuga invokes a sense of nostalgia for many players, reminiscent of the classic run-and-gun games from years past. The familiar formula of battling enemies through stages to defeat bosses remains present, offering a mix of old-school action and modern upgrades. While the game stays true to its roots with iconic characters and levels from the original Contra, it also introduces new elements such as voiced characters, playable characters with unique abilities, and updated 2D stages to freshen up the gameplay.
Despite its efforts to incorporate new features, Operation Galuga falls short in its storytelling, with stilted writing and lengthy dialogue sequences detracting from the fast-paced action. The game maintains the core Contra gameplay mechanics, with familiar weapons, enemy types, and giant bosses, satisfying longtime fans while offering minor tweaks like new character abilities to add a breath of fresh air. In addition to classic levels, players also navigate through completely new stages that provide a mix of challenges and surprises to keep them engaged.
Incorporating design elements from WayForward’s previous game, Contra 4, Operation Galuga introduces a two-weapon system and weapon upgrades to enhance the player’s combat experience. The Arcade and Challenge modes from Contra 4 make a return, offering players the option to engage in four-player co-op and tackle special challenges to test their skills. While these modes add variety to the gameplay, the repetitive nature of running through similar levels may limit long-term engagement for some players.
Overall, Contra: Operation Galuga blends elements of the past with modern updates to create an enjoyable gaming experience for fans of the series. With its mix of classic gameplay, new features, and challenging levels, the game offers a balance of nostalgia and innovation for players looking to relive the arcade glory days in a contemporary setting.