# Operation C - The 1991 Game Boy Run-and-Gun Classic *Operation C*, known as *Contra* in Japan and *Probotector* in Europe, is a 1991 run-and-gun shooter developed by Konami for the Game Boy. A handheld spin-off of the *Contra* series, it follows Lance Bean (or robot RD008 in Europe) on a solo mission to thwart an unnamed organization developing alien-based weapons, set between *Contra* (1987) and *Super C* (1990). Featuring five side-scrolling stages (e.g., jungle, harbor, fortress), it includes weapons like Machine Gun, Spread Shot, and the new Homing Gun. With crisp monochrome visuals, a dynamic soundtrack by Hidehiro Funauchi, and tight controls, it’s a standalone *Contra* with no co-op, unlike its arcade/NES siblings. Praised for its portable action (*Nintendo Power*: 4/5), it’s shorter but less punishing than *Contra III*. Re-released on 3DS Virtual Console (2012) and included in *Contra Anniversary Collection* (2019, PS4, Xbox One, Switch, PC). ## Why Play Operation C? *Operation C* delivers *Contra*’s signature run-and-gun intensity on Game Boy, with Lance navigating platform-heavy stages and fighting enemies like turrets, tanks, and bosses (e.g., submarine, alien core). The Homing Gun, unique to this entry, auto-targets enemies, complementing staples like Spread Shot (‘S’) and Machine Gun (‘M’). Its five stages blend side-scrolling action with vertical climbing (Stage 4), offering a 30-45 minute run (1-2 hours with retries). Unlike *Contra*, it lacks co-op and the Konami Code but provides unlimited continues and a slightly forgiving difficulty (no one-hit deaths after power-ups). Its compact design, responsive controls, and iconic music make it a must-play for retro shooter fans, though its short length and no co-op may disappoint some. X posts highlight its portability and Homing Gun’s novelty. ## Key Features - Play as Lance Bean (or RD008 in *Probotector*) across 5 side-scrolling stages - Wield weapons: Machine Gun, Spread Shot, Fire Gun, Homing Gun - Fight enemies and bosses like Spider Tank and Alien Nucleus - Unlimited continues; power-ups persist after death (except Stage 5) - No co-op or Konami Code; vertical climbing in Stage 4 adds variety - Experience authentic Game Boy gameplay on our retro ROM platform or *Contra Anniversary Collection* ## Key Differences from Contra/Super C - **Platform/Protagonist**: Game Boy-exclusive, solo Lance Bean (no Bill Rizer or co-op) vs. dual heroes in *Contra*/*Super C*. - **Weapons**: Introduces Homing Gun; lacks Laser or Hyper Shell from other entries. - **Stages**: 5 side-scrolling stages (no top-down or pseudo-3D) vs. 8-9 in *Contra*/*Super C*. - **Mechanics**: Unlimited continues, power-up retention (except final stage); easier than *Contra III*. - **Europe (*Probotector*)**: Replaces Lance with robot RD008, enemies roboticized for censorship. ## Play Operation C Online Blast enemies today! Play *Operation C* instantly on our website, Classic Joy Games, with no downloads, using Game Boy emulators. Alternatively, enjoy it in *Contra Anniversary Collection* (PS4, Xbox One, Switch, PC), 3DS Virtual Console, or sites like RetroGames.cz or EmulatorGames.net. Physical Game Boy copies cost $40-$100 on eBay/Amazon. Ideal for fans of retro ROMs and handheld shooters! Note: Use mGBA or Gambatte for emulation; colorized ROM hacks or 3DS enhance visuals. For best experience, prioritize Homing Gun (‘H’) for Stage 5’s tight spaces. Join players worldwide on Classic Joy Games. Start your mission now and stop the alien threat to forge Lance Bean’s legacy!