Play Contra Advance: The Alien Wars EX (Europe) - GBA ROM
Game Introduction
Contra Advance: The Alien Wars EX brings the legendary run-and-gun action of the Contra series to the Game Boy Advance. This title is primarily a port of the SNES classic 'Contra III: The Alien Wars', but with significant changes. It removes the top-down perspective levels from the original and replaces them with side-scrolling stages from the Sega Genesis title 'Contra: Hard Corps', creating a pure side-scrolling action experience. Players control elite soldiers Bill Rizer and Lance Bean as they fight to save Earth from a massive alien invasion. The game is known for its high difficulty, diverse weapon upgrades (like the Spread Gun and Laser), and intense boss battles. This European version retains the fast-paced gameplay that defines the franchise, making it a must-play for retro action fans.
Gameplay
Game Overview
Contra Advance: The Alien Wars EX is the definitive handheld version of Konami's legendary run-and-gun franchise. Originally a port of the SNES masterpiece Contra III: The Alien Wars, this GBA release brings the intense side-scrolling shooter action to the palm of your hand. Set in the year 2636, you control elite commandos Bill Rizer and Lance Bean as they wage war against an alien invasion threatening humanity's existence.
Core Gameplay
The game delivers relentless side-scrolling and top-down shooting across 6 action-packed stages. You can carry two weapons simultaneously and switch between them on the fly — a tactical upgrade from earlier Contra titles. The arsenal includes the classic Spread Gun, the powerful Crush Missile, the screen-clearing Flame Thrower, and the focused Laser Rifle. Each weapon excels in different situations, encouraging strategic weapon management throughout each level.
What Makes It Special
This GBA version is notorious for its unforgiving difficulty, staying true to the Contra tradition. Stages feature diverse gameplay styles — from burning cityscapes to missile-riding chase sequences and alien hive infiltrations. The top-down stages from the SNES original were replaced with new side-scrolling levels, giving the GBA version its own identity. Boss battles are spectacular set-pieces against screen-filling monstrosities that demand pattern memorization and quick reflexes.
Game Tips
- Classic run-and-gun action with 6 intense stages across diverse environments
- Dual-weapon system: carry two weapons and switch anytime for tactical flexibility
- Iconic arsenal: Spread Gun, Crush Missile, Flame Thrower, Laser Rifle, and more
- Spectacular boss battles against screen-filling alien monstrosities
- Faithful GBA adaptation of the legendary SNES original with exclusive new stages
- Cooperative 2-player mode via Game Link Cable for classic buddy action
- Original Konami-quality chiptune soundtrack pumping adrenaline through every level
Frequently Asked Questions
It's considered one of the more challenging entries. The GBA screen size means less visibility ahead, making enemy spawns harder to predict. However, the dual-weapon system gives you more tactical options than the original Contra III. Expect to die a lot — that's part of the Contra experience.
No, the GBA version replaced the top-down stages from the SNES original with new side-scrolling levels. Some fans prefer this change, others miss the variety. It gives the GBA version its own distinct feel.
Yes, the game supports 2-player cooperative play via the GBA Game Link Cable. Both players need their own cartridge. In emulation, this feature is typically not available, but you can take turns or use save states.
A single playthrough takes about 40-60 minutes if you know what you're doing, but expect several hours of practice to beat it on your first attempt. The limited continues system means you'll be replaying stages to master them.
The Spread Gun is universally considered the best all-around weapon due to its wide coverage. Pair it with the Crush Missile for heavy damage against bosses, or the Laser for precise long-range attacks. The Homing Gun is also excellent for beginners.
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