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What does it mean when unstoppable force meets immovable object? This is the quintessence of the Contra versus The Legend of Zelda matchup in the Original NES Games of All Time league. Here we witness a clash: the raw, adrenaline-pumping action of Contra against Zelda's epic, narrative-driven adventure. It's more than just who racks up more points or rescues princesses; it's about asserting dominance in storytelling versus sheer thrill. Which value defines greatness for us today? Is it the heart-pounding pace of alien battles or the intricate weave of mythic quests?
In this battle:
Fans currently prefer The Legend of Zelda over Contra when it comes to the greatest Original NES Games of all time. In head-to-head matchups, fans pick The Legend of Zelda 75.0% of the time over Contra.
Across all battles:
The Legend of Zelda win rate: 55.8%
Contra win rate: 48.8%
Currently, Super Mario Bros. holds the top spot in the Greatest Original NES Games of All Time league. It's loved universally for setting the benchmark for all future games. Check out the full GOAT List to see how others are ranking!
Contra holds a special place in fans’ hearts mainly for its adrenalin-pumping action and the sheer joy of its side-scrolling shootouts. Its notorious difficulty also made cooperative play a memorable, bonding experience for many, which keeps it popular in discussions about the best NES games.
The Legend of Zelda is storming ahead because of its groundbreaking approach to gaming - it introduced an open world concept that was revolutionary at the time. Fans are deeply nostalgic about its rich storyline and the freedom it offered, while Contra, though highly popular for its co-op gameplay, just doesn't ignite the same level of emotional attachment.