Keep up with the set pieces
Hard Corps scarcely lets one encounter settle before introducing the next. Each asks for a specific response, so firing faster will only get you so far. Character choice changes your weapons, and branching decisions give another run a different direction. The demands can be harsh. It helps that the game is so eager to show you what it has thought of next.
A separate Contra for Sega
The 1994 Mega Drive game introduced four distinct protagonists and simultaneous two-player action. It was developed for Sega’s console rather than converted from Contra III on the SNES. Both belong in a history of the series, with their own encounters and their own priorities.
Practise an encounter at a time
Try a few encounters before committing to a full clear. Modern saves make it easier to practise a troublesome fight while its pattern is still fresh. Regional editions differ, so check which version your collection runs before following advice written for another one.
Why we chose it for Mega Drive
Character-specific weapons and branching routes make repeated attempts interesting. Sample a few encounters before deciding whether a full clear appeals.
Explore this console’s game selection ↗Release record
Original worldwide release: 1994. Release records above identify the console editions covered by this collection.
Sources and further reading3 references
- Contra: Hard Corps: Mega Drive Mini ↗SEGA / Konami · Accessed 2026-10-27
Original Japanese release, Konami attribution, selectable characters and two-player action.
- Contra Anniversary Collection: included games and Japanese versions ↗Konami · Accessed 2026-10-27
Official collection announcement lists Hard Corps and Probotector, plus the Japanese version update. Page body is German despite its URL.
- SEGA Mega Drive: Nintendo Switch Online game library ↗Nintendo · Accessed 2026-10-27
UK catalogue checked October 2026. Requires Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack; availability can change.
