Bill Rizer
A soldier of the Contra unit and one of the two playable protagonists.
Documented for this version
Which controls does this version use?
Actions
Joystick | Move and aim The joystick controls movement and firing direction. |
|---|---|
Fire button | Shoot Fires the equipped weapon. |
Jump button | Jump Jumps over hazards and onto platforms. |
Control notes
The arcade cabinet uses a joystick and dedicated fire and jump buttons.
Exact button labels can vary between arcade cabinets.
How it plays
How does Contra play?
Contra is primarily a side-scrolling shooter viewed from the side, with several stages using a behind-the-player perspective. The objective is to advance through enemy-filled areas, destroy defenses, defeat bosses, and reach the end of the campaign.
Players move, jump, fire in multiple directions, climb ladders, and use weapon power-ups. The arcade version supports one or two players, with both players progressing through the same stage. Losing a life returns the soldier to the current section, while the limited stock of lives makes careful movement important.
Plan your run
What is the best way to play Contra?
Keep moving while firing, but avoid jumping without a clear landing area. Learn enemy entry points and prioritize turrets, flying attackers, and threats approaching from behind.
Save powerful weapon upgrades for dense enemy formations or bosses. In two-player mode, spread out enough to cover different angles without blocking each other's movement, and use safe positions to recover after a death.
Meet the cast
Who are the key characters?
Lance Bean
Bill's partner and the second playable protagonist in two-player mode.
Community discussion
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