For those who grew up playing run-and-gun games in the 90s, the Metal Slug series likely holds a special place in your heart. Known for its vibrant cartoon-style graphics and intense action, this SNK classic was originally available on the NeoGeo AES console and arcade cabinets. The franchise became famous for its chaotic, sprite-filled screens that kept players on their toes. After gaining popularity, the games made their way onto fourth-generation consoles such as the PlayStation and Sega Saturn.
Now, let’s shift gears away from nostalgia. What exactly is this new “Tactics” variant all about? Developed by Leikir Studio, Metal Slug Tactics takes the series in a fresh direction as it morphs into a tactical simulation game, reminiscent of titles like Final Fantasy Tactics. Although the core storyline sticks to the franchise’s roots—you’re still out to stop the notorious villain who’s managed to escape—this new version expands the universe a bit. Fans will find comfort in the familiar art style, ensuring there’s no doubt that this is indeed a Metal Slug game.
Metal Slug Tactics takes sharp turns from its predecessors by introducing strategic elements. You might recall other offshoots of the series, like Metal Slug Commander or an abandoned MMO project from the early 2000s. However, in this tactical adventure, players delve into turn-based strategy with grid-based playfields featuring varying heights and terrains. Each mission brings its own set of objectives, departing from the traditional shoot-everything-that-moves mentality.
Players can outfit their characters with different gear purchased with in-game currency earned from missions. As characters level up, they gain new skills and abilities tailored to their unique combat specialties. Throughout the game, you’re able to recruit new team members, adding layers of strategic depth and allowing for diverse tactics in battle.
Although the visual aesthetics stay true to the original series, the musical score takes a significant leap forward. Composer Tee Lopes has crafted a soundtrack that perfectly complements the game’s military themes, heavy on snare drums and percussive rhythms, setting just the right tone throughout your tactical operations.
While Metal Slug Tactics may not break new ground in the tactical genre, it remains a solid entry that captivates with its gameplay. A minor gripe I have is the fixed camera perspective, which sometimes obscures crucial details. A rotatable camera would enhance strategic planning by providing a clearer view of the battlefield.
Overall, diving into this review was a blast. As a fan of both tactical games and the Metal Slug series, I enjoyed the challenging missions, many of which required multiple tries to perfect my strategies. Even though I haven’t completed the game entirely, I find myself eager to continue. With its engaging gameplay and a storyline that balances humor and adventure, Metal Slug Tactics successfully breathes new life into the series. A camera rotation feature would have been a welcome addition, potentially elevating my score for this unique iteration.
