http://www.gaming-age.com/news/2007/6/20-35

Explosive Action Series Celebrates 20th Anniversary with Unique Dual
Screen Presentation, New Gameplay Elements and Cooperative Multiplayer
Mayhem

REDWOOD CITY, Calif. – June 20, 2007 – Konami Digital Entertainment,
Inc., today announced Contra 4 (working title) for the Nintendo DS™.
Marking the 20th anniversary of the quintessential action franchise,
the game pushes 2D side-scrolling action in an all-new direction with
gunplay that spans two full screens, original gameplay mechanics that
grant players deadlier abilities than ever before, and frantic
multiplayer functionality.

Contra 4 takes place two years after the events of Contra III: The
Alien Wars. After saving earth from invasion by Red Falcon, Bill Rizer
and Lance Bean are confronted with a new extraterrestrial menace: the
terrifying Black Viper. Joined by hard-boiled mercenaries Mad Dog and
Scorpion, the warriors must once again wage war against an entire army
of invaders.

Refining the 2D side-scrolling genre the series established 20 years
ago, Contra 4 delivers pure action at a fever pitch as players jump,
shoot, and dodge oncoming hazards. Utilizing a new dual screen
presentation, the action spans both screens of the Nintendo DS, giving
players the opportunity to battle across expansive environments in
which death can come from any direction. The use of both screens for
the game’s core action also allows for massive boss battles as players
try to seek and destroy the weak points of sky-high enemies. A first
for the series, Contra 4 introduces a grappling hook accessory that
lets players grab onto elements of the environment directly above
them. Whether using it to avoid oncoming dangers or attack from a
strategic vantage point, the grappling hook allows for new combat
situations and dramatic set pieces that underscore the game’s
adrenaline-soaked pedigree.

Continuing the multiplayer tradition of previous games in the series,
Contra 4 lets two players battle together against Black Viper’s army
of vile alien forces and reclaim Earth for mankind.

Developed by WayForward Technologies, Contra 4 is planned for release
on the Nintendo DS in 2007. For more information on the game and the
Contra franchise, please visit: www.konami.com .