How to Obtain 30 Lives on the Classic Nintendo Entertainment System Game "Contra"

A childhood classic, this game still holds to this day as one of my personal favorites and this code can help you reach levels you may have not experienced previously.

Items You Will Need:

Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) 8-bit home video game console with controller(s)
"Contra"-1988 video game cartridge
A television
An appreciation for retro-games

Step 1: Connect Your System

Ensure your system is properly connected to your T.V. via the RF switch or A/V cables (RCA). Connect power supply adapter to an outlet and the NES. Depending on your T.V. at home, you may need to change the channel to 3, 4 or select an input according to your connection preference.

Step 2: Insert Cartridge Into Console and Press the Power Button

Step 3: As the Title Screen Begins to Scroll, Push the Select Button to Choose Between 1 or 2 Players.

Step 4: Do This Quickly But Carefully.

Immediately press on the player 1 controller: Up, Up, Down, Down, Left, Right, Left, Right, B, A, Start. This must be done promptly for you only have until the end of the opening title music to correctly complete the code, about 5 seconds. Below is an audio clip of the title music giving you an idea of just how fast the code must be entered.

Downloads

01-title Contra.mp3

Step 5: If Done Correctly...

When inputted correctly, you will see "REST 30" at the left hand top of the following screen instead of the original "REST 3". It may take a few attempts but it does work.

Step 6: Enjoy, Happy Gaming and Long Live the NES!!!

Spoiler Alert: This is a cheat code and it may take away from the developers intended purpose of a challenging but enjoyable gaming experience by using this code.