The legendary run-and-gun franchise is making the leap to comics.
Konami Cross Media NY has announced a licensing agreement with Mad Cave Studios to develop and publish an expansive comic book series based on the iconic Contra video game franchise . The partnership launches with a comprehensive line of storytelling, including a 12-issue comic run, multiple trade paperback volumes, and a prestigious Deluxe Edition.
The first issue arrives January 2027 at local comic shops and major book retailers. The deal covers major global territories including the United States, Canada, Latin America, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand.
“The adrenaline-pumping world of Contra has always been rooted in rich, character-driven action, making it a perfect candidate for the comic book medium,” said Jennifer Coleman, Senior Vice President, Licensing and Marketing at Konami Cross Media NY. “Mad Cave Studios has a proven pedigree for delivering high-impact narratives across a diverse range of genres.”
Mark London, CEO and Chief Creative Officer at Mad Cave Studios, added: “Contra is a cornerstone of gaming history, and we are honored to take the mantle of bringing its explosive energy to the page. Our team is dedicated to cultivating an impactful, character-focused story that honors the source material while pushing the boundaries of what fans expect from a sci-fi action comic.”
Since its 1987 arcade debut, Contra has become one of gaming’s most enduring action franchises, known for its side-scrolling run-and-gun gameplay, iconic “Konami Code” cheat, and punishing difficulty . Mad Cave Studios, founded in 2014, has built a reputation for high-impact genre comics with imprints including Maverick, Nakama Press, and Papercutz.
Contra joins the growing list of video game franchises making the jump to comics. With a 12-issue series and multiple collected editions planned, Mad Cave Studios is aiming for something substantial—not just a one-off adaptation.
January 2027 feels far away, but for fans who grew up entering the Konami Code, this one’s worth the wait. Time to start practicing that spread gun.
Source: Konami, Mad Cave Studios
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