Repeat after me: Up, Up, Down, Down, Left, Right, Left Right, B, A. Yep, that’s the Konami code and you might want to practice it a bit before this Wednesday because Microsoft sent out a press release stating that Contra is this week’s Xbox Live Arcade title. No more crappy card decks but an actual retro title you can actually play. It’s going to cost 400MP ($5) and it comes with Xbox Live support, sweet.

Screenshots from the original NES version.

Use veteran Special Ops soldiers Bill Rizer or Lance Bean to battle the alien menace Red Falcon and all of its minions. Fight through the jungle, frozen tundra and steel fortresses in 8 challenging game levels. Gamers depend on high-tech weapons including the Mini Laser, the Fireball and the Spread Gun in their fight to protect the world.

“Contra” for Xbox Live Arcade includes enhanced graphics and sound and also features new multiplayer cooperative gameplay, allowing you and a buddy to work together from either the same console or through Xbox Live.

“Contra” is available worldwide for 400 Microsoft Points.

GAME FEATURES:

• Players can opt to play the original arcade game or play in the enhanced mode with improved graphics and sounds
• Xbox Live Multiplayer: Battle all 8 levels together over Xbox Live, or locally on the same console
• Xbox Live features: Players can see how they rank against their friends with worldwide leaderboards and achievements
• 12 achievements: “Contra”; offers achievements which range from straightforward to challenging for players of all skill levels
• New visuals: Enjoy enhanced artwork including rendered new bullet effects and explosions

Be sure to keep an eye on Xboxic for an update when the game is actually released. Now where’s my Small Arms Microsoft?