Metal Slug Tactics

2D run-and-gun action becomes a tactical role-playing game. With Metal Slug Tactics, French duo Leikir Studio and Dotemu are taking a well-known but dormant franchise in a new direction, and they're doing it in style.

Dotemu is reviving another dormant franchise, this time SNK's Metal Slug, which, unlike SNK's other IPs, is not a fighting game. The 2D run-and-gun action debuted in 1996, with the seventh game in the main series released in 2008/2009, followed by spin-offs and remakes. However, instead of returning to classic run-and-gun action, the new game is a tactical role-playing game with roguelite elements. According to an interview with The Gamer, the idea for it came about over several beers in 2018. Leikir then pitched the idea to SNK with the support and connections of Dotemu. The idea was met with approval, and although SNK is not involved in the development, they gave Leikir access to the original assets. Development began in 2019. Now the game is ready for release.

Metal Slug Tactics reunites Marco, Eri, Fio and Tarma - nine characters in all - as they lead the Peregrine Falcon Squad against Donald Morden and his army. Players will embark on a campaign across 110 hand-crafted maps and 20 different mission types to defeat the Rebel Army once and for all. The maps combine random layouts of hand-crafted terrain sectors with roguelite elements, forcing players to adapt to encounters, overcome obstacles and think strategically. The die-and-retry roguelite progression ensures replayability - experience points, talent trees and perks for operatives are available for customisation and specialisation, which on the one hand ensures motivation and on the other hand makes the team stronger and stronger. In total, there are 36 different weapons, 176 weapon mods and nine characters from the series. A run takes between 45 minutes and an hour and 45 minutes; completionists can spend over 30 hours.

Tactical combat features a Super Attack system that allows players to outwit and destroy enemy flanks. It's also possible to launch simultaneous attacks using the SYNC mechanic to inflict massive damage on the enemy. And if the team is in trouble, there are reinforcements and big guns such as heavy artillery, air strikes and the Metal Slug itself. The engaging tactical gameplay is set to a driving score by Tiago Lopes, better known as Tee Lopes. The visuals are also very well done and pleasingly faithful to the original. The animations are particularly good.

The game has been developed by independent French studio Leikir (Isbarah, Rogue Lords, Wondershot), which is also currently working on sci-fi city builder Synergy. It is being published by Dotemu, which has been part of Focus Entertainment since 2021 and is dedicated to indie publishing, especially titles based on well-known brands and classic games such as Pharaoh: A New Era and Might & Magic: Clash of Heroes: Definitive Edition, as well as the million-selling Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder's Revenge and Streets of Rage 4. Metal Slug Tactics, based on the long-dormant Metal Slug franchise, is a fitting addition to Dotemu's portfolio.

Metal Slug Tactics is scheduled for release on 5 November 2024 for PC, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Switch, Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One in digital form for €24.99. Plans for a physical release have also been confirmed, but no further details have been given. The game's original soundtrack, composed by Tee Lopes (Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder's Revenge, Sonic Mania, Streets of Rage 4's Mr. X Nightmare DLC), will be available digitally via Steam and on physical vinyl via Kid Katana Records.

Conclusion

Metal Slug Tactics sensitively reinvigorates a long-standing franchise, sending familiar characters into thrilling, stylistically beautiful tactical battles.

Features

• Engaging tactical skirmishes in stylish maps
• Roguelite elements require new strategies
• Respectful tribute to the SNK franchise