Technology1 min read

Show HN: NES Contra (1987) port (ASM –> C and then C –> WebAssembly)

By · Published by Everything Blog

In short

A native web port was achieved by translating the original 1987 assembly code into C, followed by a compilation into WebAssembly. In addition to local single-player support, the browser game enables two remote participants to experience cooperative sessions together online. Player 1 launches the shared experience simply by selecting the two-player mode on the home screen using mapped inputs. Standard keyboard bindings replace traditional gamepads, allowing users to direct actions, leap, and shoot via on-screen prompts.

Key points

  • The retro game runs directly inside modern web browsers without requiring external emulat…: The retro game runs directly inside modern web browsers without requiring external emulation software.
  • Online functionality permits two separate participants to join a cooperative match from t…: Online functionality permits two separate participants to join a cooperative match from their own computers.
  • Both participants utilize the exact same keyboard input layout across their respective de…: Both participants utilize the exact same keyboard input layout across their respective devices during gameplay.

Sources checked by our analysis pipeline: 1

CONTRA

NES native port — running in your browser via WebAssembly

Loading…

Waiting…

Press Enter (or tap START) to begin.

←↑→↓ move ·

A/Space jump · S fire ·

Enter Start · Shift Select

On-screen: A = jump · B = fire

Online: both players use these same keys on their own computer.

Player 1 picks 2 PLAYERS with Shift on the title screen.

Nintendo

WOOHOO!

HOORAY FOR NOSTALGIA!!!

HOORAY FOR NOSTALGIA!!!

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