Level 1: Jungle
The infamous first level of Contra. Watch out for the gun turrets that have been placed in the cliffs. The bridges are also mined, so they will explode if you walk over them. If you fall in the water, don't worry... you won't die, it will just be more difficult to fight. At the end of the level, take care of the mechanism guarding the first base.

Level 2: Base No. 1
The first base, taking place inside a cave. Destroy the locks in the background to deactivate the laser and let you move forward. Enemies will not only shoot and through grenades, but rollers will travel along the ground, hoping to run your commandos over. You'll fight the first Homicide Censor at the end of this level.

Level 3: Waterfall
Work your way up to the top of the waterfall. Though you'll have to deal with natural obstructions like falling boulders, enemy missile launchers are hiding in the water too. Be careful when jumping across the moving rock platforms, as it's a long way to the bottom. At the peak of the bottom, you'll need to destroy the biological guard for the second base.

Level 4: Base No. 2
Base No. 2 takes place inside of an underground lab. It's pretty much the same as the first base, only there's more enemies and rollers to deal with. Fight another, tougher homicide censor at the end.

Level 5: Snow Field
You're back outside to fresh, cold air. Enemy grenadiers are hiding behind the pine trees and more alien gunman lie waiting. Two spiked armored trucks must be destroyed very quickly if you are to proceed. Mad Dog and Scorpion will face a gigantic transporting space ship at the end.

Level 6: Energy Zone
The central nuclear reactor of Red Falcon's base. This section is heavily guarded with flamethrowers and armored gunners. Quick jumping reflexes are required to get past the chains of flame blasts (playing with a slow second player is not recommended in this level.) A gigantic alien robot will be your tormentor at the end.

Level 7: Hangar
This hangar will built for the manufacturing of aerial weapons of destruction. Good thing you caught Red Falcon before he could manufacture any. Spikes are everywhere in this level, either coming down on your head or popping up right in front of you. There is also a mine car you can ride, although the spikes are more prevalent in this area. Two gigantic turrets guard the entrance to the final level

Level 8: Alien's Lair
This cave has been infested with the biological agents of Red Falcon. Hideous faces imbedded in the rock spew out homing projectiles. After destroying the alien head guard, you'll fight the heart of Red Falcon. Destroy this and you can leave the island, knowing that the world is safe... for now.