Originally Posted by
Kid Fenris
Actually, I think that Contra III and Axelay were two of Konami's best SNES offerings. Contra III has amazing level layouts, the dual-weapon system is excellent, and the game isn't frustrating so much as it is challenging in a fair way. I never really understood why some didn't care for the overhead stages, either. They're great fun once you grasp the control system.
Axelay more style than substance? Hardly. It has the most inventive weapons this side of Radiant Silvergun, while the level design is every bit as solid (and not nearly as tedious) as a Gradius or Lifeforce/Salamander. Not every stage looks as great as it once did, I'll admit, but the third level's unfurling cityscape remains gorgeous, and the boss encounters still look great, even after years of Psikyo and Cave wonders.