[FreeTally]

and could never beat "Contra" without the 99 lives trick.

I don't think anyone could. One of my favorite games from back in the day.

[weikel]

Ive heard that there were people who actually could do that I think I once got to level 4 or maybe it was to the 3rd boss without using it.

[xrp]

I was able to beat Contra on the NES without losing a life. The best weapon on the game was the Spreader gun, especially when used with a controller that has rapid fire option (NES Advantage)

[youaculpa]

I beat Contra right before the 99 lives trick; up, up, down, down, left, right, left, right, b, a, start came out. ;))

I even had my name in Nintendo Power for a Contra high score. That was a great game. When I saw it at my best friend's house, I was hooked. lol