Contra
[Konami, 1988][related: KonamiCode™]
Title for the NES inspired by the seminal action film Predator starring Arnold Schwarzenegger. Known as Gryzor and/or Probotector in the PAL Region, Contra is notable for its gameplay featuring a mixed format of standard L→R scrolling alternating with pseudo-3D view in which the player proceeds "forward" into the depth of the screen [1]. The game culminates in the capricious and unexplained morphing of opposing forces into an alien army. In Contra's original arcade version (released 1987), players captured in this ultimate level were forced to watch a graphic digital dismembering sequence lasting in excess of 17 seconds.
- ↑ Contra also marks the debut of the "KonamiCode™", a glitch-generated input sequence gaining access to 90 contiguous lives for the player. The code is included in a number of notable Konami titles, including Metal Gear Solid, Castlevania, and Legendary Wings, and its origins are unknown. Buttons of the code; in order, up, up, down, down, left, right, left, right, B, A.