Contra: Operation Galuga will demonstrate the reasons behind the series' cherished status for over three and a half decades

Undoubtedly, Konami's Contra series was a defining action game force in the 1980s and early 1990s, known as Probotector in Europe. However, the magic of that era proved elusive for Konami in the subsequent years, with most contra-related releases falling short of expectations, barring a notable exception that we will delve into later.

There is, however, a glimmer of hope for a resurgence of the vintage Contra thrills as WayForward, renowned for their mastery of retro and 2D action games, is gearing up to release Contra: Operation Coubra in the forthcoming spring. This studio is familiar to the franchise; they previously developed the lauded Contra 4 in 2007, which stands out as the only successful Contra title since Super Probotector's 1992 release.

Tomm Hulett, the director, shared insights in an interview with Nintendo Life about their decision to revisit the legendary series:

"Considering the extensive history of the Contra series, Konami recognized that new players might feel daunted about joining in at this stage. Moreover, the original narrative of Contra was somewhat convoluted due to regional variances, presenting an opportunity to reset the storyline and align everyone's understanding. It's important to note that this isn't merely an HD remaster or an upgraded re-release. In terms of game content—featuring new-level designs, player abilities, and challenges—this is an entirely fresh Contra experience. We hope it sets a strong precedent for subsequent series entries."

When asked about how Operation Cobra relates to the classic Contra titles, Hulett indicated that the new game would have broad appeal and hinted at its deep roots in the series' long-standing history:

"While our game nods to more than the original Contra, I'm saving the specifics for the post-launch explainer articles. Regarding inspiration, I envision Operation Coubra as a comprehensive tribute to the side-scrolling Contra legacy. Each installment has its enthusiasts who have longed for a return to the series' prime, and Operation Coubra is tasked with fulfilling that expectation. It's designed to be the perfect starting point for new fans while illustrating why Contra has maintained its status as a fan-favorite action franchise for over three decades.