# Contra Returns — Classic Arcade Game Returns > Classic arcade run-and-gun shooter reimagined for mobile with updated visuals and multiplayer. (iPhone/iPad app by PROXIMA BETA PTE.LIMITED.) - Source: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/contra-returns/id1543657739 (this page in markdown: same URL + `.md`) - Developer: [PROXIMA BETA PTE.LIMITED](https://appshunter.io/developer/1190539723) - Category: Games, Action - Price: Free with in-app purchases - Rating: 3.50/5 from 1,711 App Store ratings · 53 written reviews indexed - Age rating: 12+ - Requires: iOS 9.0 · 3.6 GB - Languages: American English, Brazilian Portuguese, European Spanish - Released: 2021-07-25 - Data updated: 2026-06-10 - Monetization: free - User reviews in markdown: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/contra-returns/id1543657739/reviews.md ## What is Contra Returns? Remember the secret code: Up, Up, Down, Down, Left, Right, Left, Right, B, A to get extra lives? After a 30-year hiatus, the Contra you know and love is back! Developed by famous Japanese game company KONAMI and world-leading game developer TIMI, Contra Returns aims to bring the classic Contra experience to mobile platforms. In Contra Returns, players can enjoy the classic side-scrolling gameplay, two-person teams, alien bosses, and signature settings and soundtrack from the original series! All with updated HD resolution, 3D character models, and vivid acoustic and visual effects to deliver a sensory experience like no other! Get your fighting spirit all fired up with innovative content: real-time PvP battles, unique heroes, companions, and team mode! Legendary heroes Bill and Lance are making a comeback, so let's kick some alien butt and save the world! 【Special Features】 Reignite the Battlefield: Fight like a warrior in this worthy sequel to the classic Contra series made in collaboration with Konami. Conquer the Battlefield with Friends: Team up online, exam your teamwork skills, and take on the Contra world together. Go Head-to-Head in Real-Time Combat: With fair competition and 3-second matching, enjoy exciting multiplayer battles online. Tons of Gameplay: Experience all-new gameplay in the Team, Challenge, Story, and PvP modes. Weapons Galore: Mix and match your arsenal and pair up different heroes to unlock new skills! Official website: https://www.contrareturnsm.com/ Facebook：https://www.facebook.com/ContraReturnsOfficial/ Discord：https://discord.com/invite/TAx8kuXTxE ## Key features - Classic side-scrolling gameplay - HD resolution and 3D character models - Real-time PvP battles - Cooperative team mode - Variety of weapons and heroes - Multiple gameplay modes ## Pricing and in-app purchases Base price: Free. **One-time purchases** | Purchase | Price | Type | | --- | --- | --- | | Diamond×500 | $4.99 | one-time | | Diamond×100 | $0.99 | one-time | | Diamond×1000 | $9.99 | one-time | | 99Cents Gift Pack | $0.99 | one-time | | 1999Cents Gift Pack | $19.99 | one-time | | 999Cents Gift Pack | $9.99 | one-time | | 499Cents Gift Pack | $4.99 | one-time | | 799CentsGiftPack | $7.99 | one-time | | 2499CentsGiftPack | $24.99 | one-time | | 1199CentsGiftPack | $11.99 | one-time | | 199CentsGiftPack | $1.99 | one-time | | 1499CentsGiftPack | $14.99 | one-time | ## What do users think of Contra Returns? Overall sentiment: negative **Pros** - 🚀 Nostalgic gameplay - 👍 Smooth controls - 🎨 Great graphics and visuals - 🎶 Remixed classic music **Cons** - 💰 Aggressive monetization and pay-to-win mechanics - 🔁 Repetitive grind and limited progression - 🕰️ Stamina system restricts playtime - 🐛 Bugs, glitches, and server issues **Commonly reported bugs** - Disappearing purchased items - Unresponsive controls - Matchmaking and connection problems **Most requested features** - Offline/single-player mode - More character and weapon variety - Improved PvP balancing - Better customer support and communication ## Recent user reviews (10 of 53) All indexed reviews: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/contra-returns/id1543657739/reviews.md ### 5/5 — Just don’t buy anything and you’ll love it *2023-10-24* I was a bit skeptical on this game seeing the amount of one star reviews it has but I did anyway and I actually enjoyed almost every part of it! Yes the game is designed in a way to get you to spend money but many gacha games are and honestly I don’t mind replaying levels over and over when I’m only playing the game in short spurts! EDIT: I just realized that apparently the devs of this game scammed the players who used real money to buy things. This is also why I’m changing the review title. Thankfully these aren’t an issue for me considering I’m not planning on spending a single penny but to anyone who wants to play this it’s important to separate the art from the artist and not give in to the micro-transactions. You’ll probably hate this game if you do and the devs randomly decide to “accidentally” take the items from you. -Maasw ### 4/5 — Not terrible but not that great either *2023-08-09* So, been playing the game for months and it’s great gameplay wise and if you want to get the best out of it, I’d use a controller. The only downside of it is you can’t customize the controls on the controller in the settings. NOW for the worse side of the game. There’s a MAJOR level cap with stages where you can’t play them unless you’re a certain level and at a certain point leveling up is a real pain. As far as the gacha aspect, yes there’s some gimmicky stuff in the game making it P2W but if you join a laid back legion and log in every day you’ll accumulate diamonds within weeks if not months and I’m talking hundreds of dollars of money saved from logging in for it and taking advantage of diamond events. Lastly, my advice before you play the game AVOID PVP! Sure you can get the same characters as your opponents with the same abilities but these people have spent hundreds of not THOUSANDS of dollars to max out their characters on the spot which will dominate you every time making PVP the most unbalanced part of the game. ### 3/5 — Cheats/Bugs sure but you’re the real issue. *2023-06-19* You literally stated in an announcement you felt Hellen wasn’t hitting hard enough and then made this the worst “op” situation you ever “whoopsed” in or as we call it “an intentional money grab” then trapped people in “another abysmal display error” and then proceeded to invade there personal accounts and picked them apart like an organ donor that never gave permission. You may as well as tattooed a corpse of a person who’s religion forbids tattoos. (By the by I'm of such a religion and lawyered up so by all means “cancel me” so please don’t play me as a villain as you are doing a wonderful job of that as it is I’m merely pointing out persecutors). Look me up I’m iron clad on the side of angels here. I’m waiting for you to say and claim the same. Shame on you. **Developer response:** Hello Commander! If you have any specific questions or comments for us, please send us an email to support@contrareturnsm.com so that we can help you. ### 1/5 — Gatcha game, play to win *2023-02-21, version 1.29.91.8859* I grew up playing the original contra game, loved it. This version have hackers that have unlimited firepower, speed, accuracy and dexterity. Ranked matchs or PvP are rigged. I’ve paid my hard earned money to be cheated repeatedly, no real skill is needed to win. A or B hero’s can defeat the so called elite S heroes with ease makes no difference in class or rank. Your individual firepower doesn’t matter when battling other player or other modes like Void, city of ash ect. The time and money spent is just a waste, my firepower is currently over 900k and I lose to less experience or player with much less firepower and lower ranked heroes. The price of heroes and SS weapons are outrageous and not worth the expenses. It’s best to choose a game with a true balance of gameplay. I don’t usually give ratings or comments but I’ve spent the time and money. Don’t waste your energy on this scripted game. **Developer response:** Hello Commander! We thank you for your comments and feedback. Please be informed that our team will keep on improving our game based on the valuable feedback from our players. ### 1/5 — Cheating is insane in PvP. *2022-12-17, version 1.29.91.8859* Just as last person said it doesn’t matter how well you play how much money you spend. And people spend 10k and up there are hacks and codes. U can get killed with one move have the same character and the same special move does almost no damage how??? No I am not complaining just because I lose. It’s crazy how you can have the same hero origin for a example and get absolutely destroyed by one special hit the other player with three of the same specials and they still live. I have been killed by two loves multiple times. Have jumped out of the move etc and still get bodied. It’s crazy how some players are invincible. Everytime I get close to top 5 in PvP I get unbeatable players. If it was skill I would be fine. Anyone can press one button tho. It’s whatever but definitely hackers are at it. Also don’t waste your money on upgrading. Wasted hundreds and get zero result. Somehow the First awakening for the gold am is better than the second. Second cost 30 dollars. Only choice. Game is fun but hacked or fixed. They will never change anything or care as it gets ppl to spend ridiculous amounts of money thinking it will level the field. It doesn’t. But hey just quit playing. It a total scam and had absolutely nothing to do with the original contra series. NOTHING. It’s either too hard or too easy. Skill does not come into play in story mode or any mode other than PvP. But in PvP it pay to win or cheat to win. It irritating that’s for sure. **Developer response:** Hello Commander! We thank you for your comments and feedback. Please be informed that our team will keep on improving our game based on the valuable feedback from our players. ### 5/5 — MY FAVORITE MOBILE GAME *2022-07-22, version 1.29.91.8859* This game is really cool. Takes me back to Nintendo days. 1 V 1 is my favorite mode. I’m ranked in the top 10. Although there are a lot of in-app purchases to upgrade weapons and characters you can still grind to level up your firepower, buy new characters, etc. So it is not a must to spend money like others claim… Sure it can help you get the upper hand during a battle… but it IS NOT a necessary to get a win and become a top player. If you run out of ANYTHING, for example (diamonds, stamina, weapon fragments) there are modes specifically designed for you to gain more as rewards for completing the challenges… I have not spent a dime the 7 months that I’ve had this game and I ABSOLUTELY LOVE THIS GAME!!👍🏾 ### 5/5 — I love Contra Returns but a few observations *2022-07-22, version 1.29.91.8859* I love Contra. It’s my number one all time game from Nintendo in my life. When I saw this, I hopped all over it! I love it! The ONLY issues I’m experiencing is the Ashes and Void.. the participation is lacking because I can’t get far with the lack of players. If you could make the AI the same power as you for the stage so you’ll be able to do it yourself will be awesome! I hope I can get a response! Lol ### 5/5 — Woohoo *2022-07-18, version 1.29.86.3638* Y’know, back in day being able to beat Contra was mission impossible, still it was fun, the storyline was epic and me and my friends played all day. Well time went by and with time games got better and Contra was lost, and then it returned, I downloaded it and man I haven’t stopped playing it ever since. It’s not impossible, and it still retains its identity as a Contra title, the character design and cultural fusion is amazing. Play the game that’s all I can say, and to the devs, keep it alive and keep it up. ### 3/5 — Great game but developers don’t care *2022-06-17, version 1.29.86.3638* It’s a Altoona great game but the main issue is that a lot of hackers in the game like the contra team where they are able to use rapid fire in all guns no reloading and speed hacking people have reported these players to the game developers which it clearly states that they will banned these players but nope. They only care about money money money and it’s ridiculous that these prices are off the roof no one can afford all of the items plus I know and payed with the hackers and they try to deny it but like what I’ve said the developers don’t care at all the team is called (Contra) the whole team is all hackers plus people who really play actually plays without using hacks apk and using third party’s to get stuff in order to win **Developer response:** Hello Commander! We thank you for your comments and feedback. Please be informed that our team will keep on improving our game based on the valuable feedback from our players. If you find yourself in need of assistance or have any other comments, do not hesitate to contact us at support@contrareturnsm.com ### 1/5 — Great game if you have a bunch of money to blow. *2022-05-16, version 1.29.86.3638* The gameplay itself is fun and the story line takes you through a reimagined storyline of old console games but when it comes to new weapons and characters, they want you to spend a ton of money just to get them. If you want the latest and greatest weapon you have to buy gold keys or tickets to which when it is all said and done and you are able to acquire the weapon, you have spent at least over $50 for it and sometimes for the characters, you can end up spending close to $100 which is insane. ## Frequently asked questions about Contra Returns ### What is Contra Returns? Contra Returns is a mobile game that revives the classic arcade run-and-gun shooter experience. It features updated HD graphics, 3D character models, and enhanced visual and acoustic effects while retaining the core gameplay of the original series. ### What are the key features of Contra Returns? Key features include classic side-scrolling gameplay, cooperative two-person teams, challenging alien bosses, and a signature soundtrack. Players can also enjoy real-time PvP battles, unique heroes, companions, and a variety of gameplay modes like Team, Challenge, Story, and PvP. ### Is Contra Returns free to play? Yes, Contra Returns is a free-to-play game. The provided information indicates it does not have in-app purchases or ads, suggesting a completely free experience. ### What platforms is Contra Returns available on? Contra Returns is designed for mobile platforms. While specific operating systems are not detailed, it is generally available on iOS and Android devices. ### How can I play with friends in Contra Returns? You can team up with friends online to take on the Contra world together in cooperative mode. The game also offers real-time PvP battles for competitive multiplayer experiences. ## Version history (last 5 releases) ### 1.29.100.1709 — 2023-03-23 What's in the Update 1. Blood Falcon War:All-new 3-person team gameplay. 2. Shin Contra Armor: There are 3 types of Battle Armor: Support, DPS, and Tank. Choose your armor in Blood Falcon War and gain energy to transform. New resources 1. All-new Shin Contra hero debut: S Shin Contra Demon Pact - Lance! 2. Contra Pass S18 rewards updated! Arcade Demon launches a Battle Armor fever! 3. Gold SS Weapon Railgun 4. Orange SS Partner - Pixel Lance ### 1.29.91.8859 — 2022-07-22 The special first anniversary Saint Seiya Collab is on the way! What's in the Update 1.Tower of Divinity:A brand-new 3-player Team PvE battle race game mode 2. Galaxy PvP：Fight side by side with your comrades in the all-new Legion Balance 3v3 PvP mode! New resources 1.Contra Pass S10 Ocean's Heart -Dhanusha 2.Saint Seiya Collab S Hero - Origin 3.Saint Seiya Collab skins -Pegasus and leo 4.Laser Rifle 2nd Awakening -Rifle magnético: L-8 Magnetic Rifle; L-9 Thunder Rifle; L-0 World Eater;Spread Gun 5S Optimization Adjustments 1. Void: Stage Resistance requirement will be adjusted, and Reward rate will be increased. 2. City of Ashes: Stage Reward rate will be increased. 3. Team experience optimization: Team assignment experience in Ashes and Void instance dungeons will be extensively optimized. ### 1.29.86.3638 — 2022-01-07 Improvements and general optimizations ### 1.29.85.8657 — 2021-12-23 What's in the Update 1. New gameplay mode: City of Ashes. A brand-new 3-player Team PvE mode. Work together using the newly introduced Talent Skills to achieve victory! 2. New gameplay mode: The Christmas Boss, Storm Bear, will be here for a limited time only! New resources 1. Contra Pass S4 Snow Fest 2. S-Grade Hero Scar 3. Christmas exclusive: Christmas Agent - SnowBear (Skin), EX Energy Cannon - Merry Christmas (Awakening) 4. Gold SS Weapon Nether Flame Devourer 5. Orange S Weapon Vengeance Crossbow 6. Christmas Fairy - Catelyn 7. New Pet, Rapid Lightning Optimizations and Adjustments 1. New Christmas Lobby 2. Weapon Hidden Treasure now comes with a reset feature that allows the player to reset the prize pool after winning the grand prize. ### 1.29.83.8711 — 2021-10-20 ——New content 1: New format—AI NET Boss: Save our world from an invasion by AI NET's giant robots by assembling your fellow Legion members and fighting alongside other Contra Warriors in the same battle zone. AI NET's scheme must not succeed! The legion with the highest damage output will receive a rich bounty. 2. New format—Simulation: A new Roguelike format with balanced gameplay that tests the player's skills and strategic acumen. 3. New PvP format: 1v1 Werewolf Duel, 2v2 Angry Bull, 2v2 Crazy Grenadier (Fun Mode), and 2v2 Conquer Battlefield (Battle Mode). 4. New format— Halloween Boss: Turkeynator. ——New resources 1. New Heroes: S-Grade Hero Terminator; A-Grade Hummingbird; A-Grade Quint; S-Grade John Connor; A-Grade Dhanusha 2. New Weapon Awakenings: Orange S Ice Age 1st Awaken; Orange S M4A1 1st Awaken; Orange SS M4A1 - Roaring Thunder 1st Awaken; Orange S Power of Zeus 1st Awaken; Orange S Lightning Laser Cannon 1st Awaken 3. New Skins: 1) Warrior-Grade Skin: Fullmetal Officer - Terminator; 2) Collector's Skins: AI NET Plunder - Terminator; Cool Summer - Hummingbird; Night of Full Moon - Fang; Declaration of Resistance - John Connor 3) Epic Skins: Bio Berserk - Iron Lance; Ocean's Heart - Dhanusha; Dark Fate - Terminator 4. New Partners: A-Grade White Rabbit; S-Grade Rocket Commander ## Apps similar to Contra Returns | App | Rating | Price | Category | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | [Huntdown](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/huntdown/id1198183067) | 4.9 (1,643) | $6.99 | Games | | [Guardians of Cloudia](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/guardians-of-cloudia/id1544039144) | 4.0 (2,046) | Free | Games | | [Mr Autofire](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/mr-autofire/id1483457500) | 4.7 (2,669) | Free | Games | | [Devil May Cry: Peak of Combat](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/devil-may-cry-peak-of-combat/id6449589065) | 4.6 (11,937) | Free | Games | | [Shadow Hunter: Offline Games](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/shadow-hunter-offline-games/id1559150590) | 4.8 (395) | Free | Games | | [The King of Fighters ALLSTAR](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/the-king-of-fighters-allstar/id1444835826) | 4.7 (25,608) | Free | Games | ## More apps by PROXIMA BETA PTE.LIMITED - [Arena of Valor](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/arena-of-valor/id1150318642) - [アリーナ・オブ・ヴァラー](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/id1434502356) - [콜 오브 듀티: 모바일](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/id1466195505) - [Undawn](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/undawn/id1502942724) - [聖闘士星矢 ライジングコスモ](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/id1508561985) - [Fashion Dream](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/fashion-dream/id1530784011) All apps by PROXIMA BETA PTE.LIMITED: https://appshunter.io/developer/1190539723 --- *Data collected daily from the US App Store and indexed by [AppsHunter](https://appshunter.io/). User reviews are verbatim App Store reviews. Ratings, prices and chart positions refresh continuously; this snapshot is from 2026-06-10.*