Metal Slug, the iconic run-and-gun video game series developed by SNK, has been thrilling players since its debut in 1996. Known for its detailed sprite animations, intense action, and humorous elements, Metal Slug has become a beloved franchise in the gaming community. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about playing Metal Slug, from its origins to modern adaptations.
Understanding the Basics of Metal Slug
At its core, Metal Slug is a side-scrolling, run-and-gun action game where players control soldiers fighting against a rebel army. The game is renowned for its fast-paced action, diverse weaponry, and the ability to pilot various vehicles, including the eponymous Metal Slug tank.
The controls are straightforward yet responsive. Players use a directional pad or joystick to move their character left and right, crouch, or climb ladders. A dedicated jump button allows you to leap over obstacles or enemies, while the fire button unleashes your current weapon upon foes. Grenades provide area damage and can be thrown with a separate button. When near a vehicle, pressing up allows you to enter or exit it, adding another layer of strategic gameplay.
The original Metal Slug featured Marco Rossi and Tarma Roving as playable characters. As the series progressed, additional characters like Eri Kasamoto and Fio Germi joined the roster. While each character has slightly different attributes, the core gameplay remains consistent across the board.
One of Metal Slug’s most exciting aspects is its vast array of weapons and power-ups. Players start with a pistol that has unlimited ammo but weak firepower. Throughout the game, you’ll encounter various weapons that significantly change your combat approach. The machine gun offers rapid fire, while the heavy machine gun provides even more firepower. For close-range combat, the shotgun deals heavy damage, and the rocket launcher excels at taking out vehicles and large groups of enemies. More exotic weapons like the Flame Shot, Enemy Chaser (homing missiles), and Iron Lizard (ground-based guided missile) add variety and strategic depth to the gameplay.
Mastering Metal Slug Gameplay
Success in Metal Slug requires a combination of quick reflexes and smart tactics. Constant movement is key; standing still will quickly make you an easy target for the relentless enemy forces. Using cover by crouching behind objects can save your life in intense firefights. While it’s tempting to unleash your most powerful weapons at every opportunity, conserving special weapons for tough enemies or bosses is often a winning strategy.
As you battle through levels, keep an eye out for hostages to rescue. Not only does freeing these captives provide weapon upgrades or point bonuses, but it’s also crucial for achieving high scores. Speaking of secrets, Metal Slug levels are often filled with hidden paths and areas containing valuable power-ups, so exploration can be highly rewarding.
Advanced players can take advantage of several techniques to elevate their gameplay. The slide maneuver, executed by quickly pressing down while running, is invaluable for dodging enemy attacks. When in close quarters, your character will automatically use a knife for melee combat, which can be surprisingly effective. Some versions of the game allow quick switching between collected weapons, enabling versatile combat strategies.
The scoring system in Metal Slug adds another layer of depth to the game. While destroying enemies and objects forms the basis of your score, rescuing hostages provides significant point bonuses. Collectible items like fruits scattered throughout the levels offer additional scoring opportunities. For the truly skilled, completing levels quickly results in time bonuses, encouraging speed runs and repeated playthroughs to achieve the highest possible scores.
Metal Slug Across Different Platforms
The Metal Slug experience has evolved across various gaming platforms since its arcade debut. For purists, nothing beats the authentic feel of playing on an original arcade cabinet. The tactile feedback of the joystick and buttons, combined with the social atmosphere of an arcade, creates an unparalleled gaming experience. If you have access to an arcade or a retro gaming center, this remains the most authentic way to enjoy Metal Slug.
However, recognizing that arcades are increasingly rare, console ports have brought Metal Slug into homes worldwide. Notable collections like Metal Slug Anthology for PS2, PSP, and Wii have allowed players to experience multiple games in the series on a single disc. Individual titles like Metal Slug X, originally released for the PlayStation, have found new life on modern platforms through digital storefronts.
PC gamers haven’t been left out either. Digital distribution platforms like Steam and GOG offer several Metal Slug titles for purchase, often with enhanced features or additional content. For those willing to explore legal gray areas, emulation through software like MAME (Multiple Arcade Machine Emulator) allows enthusiasts to play Metal Slug ROMs, recreating the arcade experience on modern hardware.
The mobile gaming revolution has also embraced Metal Slug. Alongside ports of classic titles, new entries like Metal Slug: Awakening have been developed specifically for smartphones and tablets, adapting the fast-paced gameplay to touch controls while maintaining the series’ signature style and humor.