PlayStation 2 User Reviews

One of the better "Contra" entries in the series. Like the "Shinobi" and "Rygar" reboots from 2002, this is a PlayStation 2 exclusive. But unlike previous "Contra" games, this entry emphasizes boss fights over normal enemies. Overall, "Soldier" is a slick, tough shooter that looks great and is best played with a co-op partner. I'd rate it with an 8 out of 10.

This is a good "Contra" game that will appeal to hardcore fans. It looks and plays great, but the emphasis on boss fights is unfortunate. Sadly, the classic weapons and power ups from previous entries are not featured. Players are equipped with ONLY three different weapons throughout the entire game. In addition, you're only given a few lives and continues. There are no saves allowed. This is a slick, but tough game. Expect a lot of trial-and-error. Victory depends on memorization and timing. Overall, I would rate this with an 8 out of 10.

**** Solider is a good Contra game, but not one of the best. It looks and plays great, but there is too much emphasis on difficult boss fights. Unfortunately, all the classic weapons and power ups of the series do not appear here. You're equipped with only three weapons throughout the entire game. Continuing the old tradition, you get a few lives and continues and no saves. This is a tough Contra. Victory depends on learning enemy attack patterns and their weaknesses. I would rate this with a 7.8 out of 10.

Well... this maybe the HARDEST PS2 GAME I've ever played... and IT'S AWESOME. The graphics are in 3D and they look soooo good, the sounds are more "realistic" so they match with the graphics and the aesthetics, and the music... HOO BOY, THE MUSIC OF THIS CONTRA, I DARE TO SAY IT'S THE BEST! Composed by Akira Yamaoka, the composer from Silent Hill! Now, the game is HARD, like, REALLY HARD, but with time you will master it, since its patterns are always the same... but that doesn't mean they are easy. Just master your weapons (Machine Gun, Flamethrower, Grenades and their special shots) and you will triumph. The only thing I don't really like, is... the bosses, TOO MANY BOSSES. Leaving everything aside, this is a REALLY HARD GAME, but a the same a REALLY GOOD ONE. If you can't handle it... it's your problem, and don't go b*****n' because you can't pass the first stage.

Why didn't I know about this game until now?? Yeah, it's definitely Contra... mostly. Where else could you do multiple flips while firing straight ahead? It's very "pick up n play," the action is excellent and there is more shooting control than ever. The graphics are beautiful since most of it is 2-D side-scrolling. On the minus side, you may or may not love the absence of traditional upgrades. No more spread shot for you. The new weapon system isn't bad, but it's not quite Contra-y enough. Also, it's a little too light on non-mini-boss action... it could have used more running and gunning. Overall, it's a fun action side-scroller on its own, but for Contra fans, it's equal parts "hey I remember this!" and "this feels kinda weird."