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METAL SLUG

PlayStation 3, Neo Geo AES, PC (Microsoft Windows), Wii, Linux, Neo Geo CD, iOS, PlayStation Portable, Mac, Android, Arcade • 2015

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Quick resume

“METAL SLUG ”, the very first title in SNK’s legendary 2D run & gun action shooting game series where all began, returns to the missions on the Steam gaming platform!

Global score

89/100

Genres

Action, Shooter, Platform, Arcade

Pros

  • Nostalgic and classic gameplay
  • Excellent pixel art and animation
  • Local and online co-op support
  • Smooth and responsive controls
  • Humorous and engaging action

Cons

  • Short game length
  • Performance issues and lag on some ports
  • Limited story and character customization
  • Online multiplayer population low
  • Some control and ui quirks

Motivations

  • Autonomy
    3

    "Players can choose characters and weapons freely and decide how to approach levels, but gameplay is linear and follows set stages."

  • Competence
    4

    "Game requires skillful shooting, dodging, and memorization of enemy patterns; achievements and difficulty modes provide challenge."

  • Competition
    2

    "Leaderboards and online co-op exist, but competition is not the main focus; many play casually or cooperatively."

  • Continuation
    1

    "Game is short (about 30-40 minutes), but players often replay for achievements and nostalgia."

  • Cooperation
    4

    "Strong emphasis on local and online co-op play, with many reviews highlighting cooperative fun."

  • Creativity
    1

    "Gameplay follows classic run-and-gun formula with limited customization; some creative humor and visual style."

  • Domination
    -3

    "Cooperative and friendly multiplayer environment with no emphasis on dominance or trash talk."

  • Escapism
    4

    "Players use the game for nostalgia, stress relief, and immersive arcade action away from real life."

  • Expectation
    -4

    "Players engage voluntarily for fun and nostalgia rather than obligation or pressure."

  • Experimenting
    2

    "Some experimentation with weapons and tactics possible, but mostly follows established gameplay routines."

  • Exploration
    -2

    "Levels are linear and familiar; limited exploration but some discovery of secrets and hidden items."

  • Expression
    -3

    "Minimal character customization; mostly standard presentation with fixed characters and visuals."

  • Fantasy
    3

    "Cartoonish, exaggerated war setting with humorous and fictional elements, not realistic."

  • Fellowship
    3

    "Community and shared experiences through co-op and online play foster a sense of belonging."

  • Growth
    3

    "Players improve skills, learn enemy patterns, and master levels; achievements encourage growth."

  • Health
    -5

    "Sedentary gameplay typical of arcade shooters with no physical activity."

  • Idle
    -3

    "Requires focused attention and quick reflexes; not suited for idle or background play."

  • Intimacy
    2

    "Cooperative play with friends and family can foster closer relationships."

  • Leadership
    -2

    "No explicit leadership roles; players cooperate as equals."

  • Progression
    3

    "Players collect weapons, power-ups, and points; progression through levels and achievements."

  • Relaxation
    1

    "Fast-paced action with moments of flow, but also tension due to difficulty and enemy fire."

  • Sensation
    4

    "Vibrant pixel art, sound effects, music, and explosions provide strong sensory stimulation."

  • Status
    1

    "Leaderboards and achievements provide some recognition, but social status is not central."

  • Story
    0

    "Minimal narrative; story is present but not a focus, mostly context for action."

  • Strategy
    3

    "Requires planning and quick decision-making to survive and defeat enemies efficiently."

  • Thrill
    3

    "High tension from enemy fire and boss battles creates thrilling gameplay moments."

  • Value
    1

    "Good value for nostalgia and fun, but short length and port issues noted."

  • Violence
    4

    "Enjoyment of combat, destruction, and explosions is central to gameplay."

  • Survival
    3

    "Players must avoid death and manage limited lives or continues to progress."

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    Last update: 06/03/2026