Japanese version of (contra hard corps) comes to mind for me.The characters have a energy meter plus a code can be put in,for extra lives.
I didn't know that either for a long time until i play it off a flashcart.Never knew that.
Bare Knuckle 3 over streets of rage 3. So much was cut out of the genesis version.
And about Contra Hard Corps.
The Japanese version isn't better,
it's just easier.
Konami USA made the right choice taking the lifebars out.