Box Art Brawl: Contra 4 – Vote for Your Favorite Cover!
Box Art Brawl is back with another exciting edition! Last week, we took a trip down memory lane with the GameCube classic Pokémon Colosseum, where North America and Europe ended in a draw with 37% of the votes each. This time, we’re shifting our focus to the Nintendo DS and exploring the box art of Contra 4, a remarkable revival of the Contra franchise by WayForward.
The Duel of Dual Spirits
Contra 4 was released in 2007 in the US and 2008 in Japan, but curiously skipped Europe altogether. This unique entry in the Contra series features two distinct box art designs, showcasing the game’s intense action-packed gameplay and iconic characters, Bill Rizer and Lance Bean.
North America’s Variant
The North American box art for Contra 4 presents a striking composition that captures the essence of the game. The bold Contra logo stands out at the top, while protagonists Bill Rizer and Lance Bean are depicted in an epic pose at the center of the image. The overall dark tone of the artwork adds a sense of moodiness, setting the stage for the intense battles players can expect in the game.
Japan’s Variant
In contrast, Japan’s box art for Contra 4, titled Contra: Dual Spirits, takes a more stylized approach to the character design. While not quite venturing into anime territory, the artwork features a brighter color palette and a unique artistic style that sets it apart from its North American counterpart. The use of colors and character design in the Japanese variant adds a sense of energy and dynamism to the overall composition.
As you cast your votes in the poll below, consider the distinct visual styles and themes presented in each box art design. Which variant resonates with you the most? Is it the moody and intense atmosphere of North America’s cover, or the stylized and energetic artwork of Japan’s version?
Thank you for participating in this round of Box Art Brawl. Stay tuned for more exciting matchups in the world of video game box art!
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