73
MONSTER
The legendary Contra series is back! Contra: Operation Galuga is a modern reimagining of the classic run-‘n’-gun action game from the ’80s, featuring modern graphics and sound. Encounter new stages, new play mechanics, an updated weapons system and explosive co-op combat for up to two players in Story Mode or four players in Arcade Mode.
Game analysis
Monster Scorecard
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Story and Narrative
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72
Critics have mixed opinions on the story of Contra: Operation Galuga. Some praise its nostalgic elements and fully voiced cutscenes, while others criticize its inconsistencies and lack of coherence. The narrative serves as a backdrop to the classic run-and-gun action gameplay, with some enjoying its over-the-top action movie tropes and others appreciating its classic style. Overall, the story adds context and flavor to the Contra experience, but it may not be the main highlight of the game.
SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY
Story Score
72
Positive (80-100)
42%
Mixed (50-79)
55%
Negative (0-49)
3%
Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.
TL;DR
story and narrative
Critics have mixed opinions on the story of Contra: Operation Galuga. Some praise its nostalgic elements and fully voiced cutscenes, while others criticize its inconsistencies and lack of coherence. The narrative serves as a backdrop to the classic run-and-gun action gameplay, with some enjoying its over-the-top action movie tropes and others appreciating its classic style. Overall, the story adds context and flavor to the Contra experience, but it may not be the main highlight of the game.
Gameplay Mechanics
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84
Critics rave about Contra: Operation Galuga's top-notch gameplay, praising its smooth platforming, intense gunplay, and exciting power-ups. The game stays true to the classic Contra series while introducing modern elements like stacking power-ups and Overload abilities. While some critics mentioned minor areas for improvement, the overall consensus is overwhelmingly positive, with reviewers applauding the addictive gameplay, challenging levels, and innovative mechanics. In summary, Contra: Operation Galuga offers a satisfying mix of nostalgia and innovation for fans old and new.
SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY
Gameplay Score
84
Positive (80-100)
85%
Mixed (50-79)
15%
Negative (0-49)
0%
Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.
TL;DR
gameplay mechanics
Critics rave about Contra: Operation Galuga's top-notch gameplay, praising its smooth platforming, intense gunplay, and exciting power-ups. The game stays true to the classic Contra series while introducing modern elements like stacking power-ups and Overload abilities. While some critics mentioned minor areas for improvement, the overall consensus is overwhelmingly positive, with reviewers applauding the addictive gameplay, challenging levels, and innovative mechanics. In summary, Contra: Operation Galuga offers a satisfying mix of nostalgia and innovation for fans old and new.
Graphics and Visual Design
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66
Critics have mixed feelings about the graphics in Contra: Operation Galuga. Some praise the modernized gameplay and vibrant environments, while others criticize the graphics for being dated and lacking in comparison to previous Contra titles. Despite some positive aspects like vibrant stages and character designs, the game faces criticism for its lack of originality and inconsistent visual quality. Overall, opinions vary on whether the game successfully delivers the classic Contra experience visually.
SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS
Visual Score
66
Positive (80-100)
30%
Mixed (50-79)
58%
Negative (0-49)
12%
Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.
TL;DR
graphics and visual design
Critics have mixed feelings about the graphics in Contra: Operation Galuga. Some praise the modernized gameplay and vibrant environments, while others criticize the graphics for being dated and lacking in comparison to previous Contra titles. Despite some positive aspects like vibrant stages and character designs, the game faces criticism for its lack of originality and inconsistent visual quality. Overall, opinions vary on whether the game successfully delivers the classic Contra experience visually.
Music and Sound Design
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76
Critics mostly praise Contra: Operation Galuga for its nostalgic and adrenaline-inducing soundtrack, blending classic themes with new tracks. Reviewers like Vooks and Vandal laud the inclusion of Konami themes, while Atomix and GameGrin commend the reimagined classics and original compositions. However, LevelUp and IGN Italia criticize the music for lacking impact and being repetitive. Despite some room for improvement, the majority of critics agree that the game effectively captures the essence of classic Contra experiences through its sound design and music, enhancing the overall nostalgic feel for players.
SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN
Sound Score
76
Positive (80-100)
53%
Mixed (50-79)
47%
Negative (0-49)
0%
Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.
TL;DR
music and sound design
Critics mostly praise Contra: Operation Galuga for its nostalgic and adrenaline-inducing soundtrack, blending classic themes with new tracks. Reviewers like Vooks and Vandal laud the inclusion of Konami themes, while Atomix and GameGrin commend the reimagined classics and original compositions. However, LevelUp and IGN Italia criticize the music for lacking impact and being repetitive. Despite some room for improvement, the majority of critics agree that the game effectively captures the essence of classic Contra experiences through its sound design and music, enhancing the overall nostalgic feel for players.
Voice Acting
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66
Critics have mixed feelings about the voice acting in Contra: Operation Galuga. Some praise it for enhancing the storytelling and adding charm to the game, while others find it bland and derivative of action movie tropes. Overall, the consensus is positive, with most acknowledging the effort to bring depth and personality to the characters, though there are areas for improvement.
SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING
Acting Score
66
Positive (80-100)
0%
Mixed (50-79)
100%
Negative (0-49)
0%
Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.
TL;DR
voice acting
Critics have mixed feelings about the voice acting in Contra: Operation Galuga. Some praise it for enhancing the storytelling and adding charm to the game, while others find it bland and derivative of action movie tropes. Overall, the consensus is positive, with most acknowledging the effort to bring depth and personality to the characters, though there are areas for improvement.
Technical Performance
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66
Critics had mixed reviews on the technical performance of Contra: Operation Galuga across different gaming platforms. While the PS5 and Xbox Series X versions were generally praised for smooth gameplay, the Nintendo Switch version faced significant issues like frame rate drops and freezes. The PC version had fewer problems. Critics noted design flaws and unbalanced mechanics, impacting overall enjoyment. Some praised the gameplay, while others criticized technical issues that need fixing for a polished experience.
SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE
Tech Score
66
Positive (80-100)
47%
Mixed (50-79)
40%
Negative (0-49)
13%
Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.
TL;DR
technical performance
Critics had mixed reviews on the technical performance of Contra: Operation Galuga across different gaming platforms. While the PS5 and Xbox Series X versions were generally praised for smooth gameplay, the Nintendo Switch version faced significant issues like frame rate drops and freezes. The PC version had fewer problems. Critics noted design flaws and unbalanced mechanics, impacting overall enjoyment. Some praised the gameplay, while others criticized technical issues that need fixing for a polished experience.
Replay Value
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76
Critics are divided on the replay value of Contra: Operation Galuga. Positive aspects like diverse modes, local co-op, and unlockable characters enhance replayability, but some criticize the game for feeling repetitive and lacking new elements. While it caters to fans of classic arcade games, the absence of online multiplayer may limit long-term engagement. Overall, the game offers a mix of engaging experiences and challenges, making it worth revisiting for players seeking diverse gameplay options.
SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE
Replay Score
76
Positive (80-100)
56%
Mixed (50-79)
44%
Negative (0-49)
0%
Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.
TL;DR
replay value
Critics are divided on the replay value of Contra: Operation Galuga. Positive aspects like diverse modes, local co-op, and unlockable characters enhance replayability, but some criticize the game for feeling repetitive and lacking new elements. While it caters to fans of classic arcade games, the absence of online multiplayer may limit long-term engagement. Overall, the game offers a mix of engaging experiences and challenges, making it worth revisiting for players seeking diverse gameplay options.
Overall Verdict
73
MONSTER
OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION
Monster Score
73
Positive (80-100)
44%
Mixed (50-79)
55%
Negative (0-49)
1%
Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.
TL;DR
Critics praise Contra: Operation Galuga for its modernized take on the classic series, offering challenging gameplay and diverse experiences. However, some point out technical setbacks and a decline in quality in later levels. Despite mixed opinions on innovation and pricing, the game is seen as a worthy addition that revitalizes the franchise while staying true to its roots, providing a must-play experience for fans of the genre.
73
MONSTER
Reviews
97 reviews found80
Push Square
Mar 11, 2024
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
Undoubtedly the best game in the series in a long time, a must-play for fans of the classic games
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80
GameSpew
Mar 11, 2024
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
Contra: Operation Galuga is a treat for fans of Contra and run 'n' gun shooters, offering accessible gameplay, solid performance, and hours of arcade fun despite a brief campaign.
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80
GameGrin
Mar 20, 2024
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
Contra: Operation Galuga is a must-play for fans of the series, offering addictive run-'n'-gun action with great visuals, music, and challenging gameplay. A worthy entry in the Contra series that is fun to play and replay.
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80
Game Informer
Mar 28, 2024
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
Contra: Operation Galuga is an admirable modernized reimagining of the classic Contra series, offering challenging gameplay, diverse experiences, and a lot of action packed into a short playtime.
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80
Siliconera
Mar 13, 2024
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
Contra: Operation Galuga is a solid retro revival that will satisfy fans of the series. It offers a good balance of old school mechanics with modern tweaks, providing a challenging and enjoyable experience despite some visual design issues.
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80
TheXboxHub
Mar 25, 2024
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
Contra: Operation Galuga is a more than solid run and gun shooter with great shooting action, interesting weapon system, and multiplayer options. Challenging difficulty adds to the experience.
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80
COGconnected
Mar 20, 2024
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
The reviewer loved Contra: Operation Galuga for its gameplay, new content, and depth, despite the criticisms of visuals and lack of online co-op. Hopes for a sequel or similar treatment for Super C in the future.
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80
Impulsegamer
Mar 13, 2024
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
Contra: Operation Galuga is a fun return to form for the series with some minor issues. The gameplay alone makes it worth playing, catering to a wide audience.
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80
Meristation
Mar 15, 2024
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
A well-crafted and entertaining game that successfully blends retro elements with contemporary sensibilities, recommended for fans of the genre.
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80
Noisy Pixel
Mar 11, 2024
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
Contra: Operation Galuga is praised for delivering a true Contra experience with challenging gameplay and fun action, despite some minor issues with cutscenes and missing options.
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