Metal Slug 3

🎮 PlayStation 2 ⏳ 2 hours ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)

Arcade Spirit Preserved #

This Metal Slug entry stands as one of the most iconic and ambitious run-and-gun shooters ever made. Originally developed by SNK for the Neo Geo arcade system, this console port retains the essence of the arcade experience, fast-paced action, detailed 2D visuals, and over-the-top humor, while offering players the convenience of home play. So it’s essence is basically the same as it always was, which is a very good thing to keep since this is a beloved franchise.

Chaotic Pixel Adventure #

The game picks up the signature formula: side-scrolling mayhem filled with enemies, vehicles, and explosions, all wrapped in gorgeously hand-drawn pixel art. Every stage bursts with personality, from war-torn battlefields and underwater missions to zombie-infested cities and even alien invasions. The branching level system adds replay value by letting you choose different routes and encounter new challenges each time they play.

Tight, Punishing Gameplay #

Gameplay is tight and responsive, with smooth controls that make every dodge, jump, and shot feel satisfying, you can easily replay it multiple times in order to see all of it’s contents. The difficulty, however, remains punishingly high, typical of arcade titles designed to eat coins, but it’s also part of what makes it so addictive. Mastering each level feels rewarding, especially when playing cooperatively with a friend, where the chaos becomes even more entertaining.

Striking Visual Excellence #

Visually, the game is a treat, the sprite work and animations are some of the best ever produced in 2D gaming, packed with humor and detail, whether it’s enemies surrendering in panic or the exaggerated explosions that fill the screen. The soundtrack and sound effects complement the intense action perfectly, maintaining the arcade spirit that defined the series, it is as always one of the best of it’s kind from the very first title to the very last entry.

Timeless Run-and-Gun #

This game is a masterpiece of arcade design, intense, beautiful, and endlessly fun. Despite its difficulty and minor technical hiccups, it stands as one of the finest run-and-gun games ever made. There is little to no reason not to play this if you like this kind of game, and if you are a fan of this franchise then this is definitely a must-play, the Metal Slug franchise really have almost no bad games overall.