Metal Slug Tactics Review (PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Cloud Gaming, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S & PC)

Metal Slug series takes a bold step into new territory with Metal Slug Tactics, transforming the classic formula into a turn-based tactical RPG. Developed by Leikir Studio and published by Dotemu, this tactical RPG brings fan-favorite characters like Marco, Tarma, Eri, and Fio into grid-based battles. Featuring stunning pixel art, dynamic missions, and a nostalgic soundtrack, the game challenges players with strategic planning and adaptability. Discover how Metal Slug Tactics breathes new life into a classic arcade legend!

Classic Chaos

The Metal Slug series has been a fan favorite in arcade gaming since its 1996 debut. Players have grown to know it for its chaotic run-and-gun action, vibrant pixel art, and humor. The story in Metal Slug Tactics is as delightfully over-the-top as you would expect from the Metal Slug franchise.

The game offers a blend of lighthearted humor and classic action-hero drama. Once again, General Morden, the iconic series antagonist, is up to no good. His ultimate goal is obvious: world dominance. With a massive army and a new set of dangerous allies, Morden threatens the world's peace. Consequently, it sets the stage for another high-stakes showdown.

To stop the general, the Peregrine Falcon Squad: Marco, Tarma, Eri, and Fio, returns to the frontlines. This time, they’re taking a more calculated approach to dismantle Morden’s plans. Players guide the team through various regions, each packed with well-crafted missions and randomized encounters. In the process, players will uncover a few twists and moments of classic Metal Slug humor. While the narrative isn’t groundbreaking, it fits perfectly within the series’ tone. Ultimately, the game offers fun character interactions, amusing dialogue, and plenty of nostalgic vibes for fans.

From Run-and-Gun to Think-and-Plan

Turning Metal Slug‘s fast-paced action into a turn-based tactical RPG might have sounded like a tall order. However, the developers nailed it. Constant movement remains at the heart of the gameplay. Interestingly, movement generates health buffs and adrenaline points, a resource used to unleash character-specific powers. This simple yet critical mechanic ensures that players stay on the move even in a tactical setting. Notably, the game stays true to the original games’ relentless energy.

Unlike several tactic games, where holding your ground and playing defensively is common, Metal Slug Tactics rewards aggressive positioning. Players constantly search for the next vantage point or the best chance to set up devastating attacks. This approach keeps the pace lively. Even in a turn-based environment, it delivers the same rush of action that fans of the series love.

Ultimately, it’s a refreshing take on tactical gameplay that feels truly like the retro vibe of Metal Slug Francise. Despite the genre shift, the game retains the franchise’s essence. It's all about quick reflexes, but now with a touch of strategy.

Keeping It Tactical

At its core, Metal Slug Tactics is a roguelike game where every run offers a mix of challenge, reward, and replayability. You start by selecting three characters from the iconic Metal Slug roster. Surprisingly, each character has unique abilities and play styles. The abilities range from long-range sharpshooters to tanky bruisers, allowing you to build a team that perfectly fits your preferred strategies.

Now, here is the interesting part. Once your team is assembled, you can choose your path through a branching map. Each node on the map represents a mission, and your ultimate goal is to take down the notorious General Morden. Missions feature handcrafted levels with randomized combat encounters, ensuring that no two runs feel exactly the same.

In addition, the roguelike structure shines in how it rewards experimentation. Completing missions rewards you with upgrades, new weapons, and skills. Gradually, it turns your team into a force to be reckoned with. Each run feels super cool. Your team evolves dramatically from scrappy underdogs to overpowered heroes by the end of the game.

One thing players appreciate about Metal Slug Tactics is the replayability value. To make it more interesting, the replayability is further boosted by secondary objectives within missions. These optional challenges encourage players to approach battles differently. That means players can limit their use of certain powers or complete tasks within a time limit. The sheer variety of rewards ensures that every run feels rewarding, no matter how it ends.

Chaos Meets Strategy

The combat in Metal Slug Tactics is where the game truly shines. While it’s rooted in traditional tactical RPG mechanics, it introduces a variety of features that keep battles dynamic. The game's synchronization attack system allows players to position characters and combine their efforts for massive damage. These team attacks are satisfying to pull off and reward careful planning.

Interactive map elements add another immersive element of strategy. It's amazing how catapults fling characters across the battlefield while explosive barrels can be used to wipe out groups of enemies. The game also adds verticality, where higher ground impacts what you can see and makes your attacks stronger.

What makes the combat unique is its flexibility. The game doesn’t force you into one “right” way to win. You can teleport allies into strategic spots, hop into a Metal Slug tank, or even trade health for powerful moves. This freedom lets you tackle battles creatively, turning each fight into a puzzle with plenty of solutions. Ultimately, every win feels satisfying and well-deserved.

A Pixelated Masterpiece

You're in for a treat if you’re a fan of Metal Slug’s iconic art style. Metal Slug Tactics retains the series’ signature pixel art but enhances it with modern vibes. The animations are buttery smooth, and every character, enemy, and environment is bursting with detail. From the bright explosions to the idle animations, the visuals are a masterpiece.

The audio design is equally a masterpiece. The soundtrack combines nostalgic melodies with fresh tracks, perfectly capturing the high-energy vibe of the series. Sound effects, such as the familiar weapon fire and enemy death cries, hit all the right notes. Even if you’ve never played a Metal Slug game before, the audiovisual package is so polished that it’s difficult not to appreciate it. The character art deserves a special mention as well. It is impressive, with retro-style portraits that perfectly match the in-game sprites. It feels like a tribute to the series' fans. 

The Bad

While Metal Slug Tactics is undeniably a great game, it’s not without its shortcomings. The most noticeable issue is the cluttered user interface. During late-game scenarios, the screen can become overwhelming when multiple abilities, enemies, and environmental effects are in play. Misclicks and misplays due to visual chaos are common and frustrating.

Another weak point is the camera during enemy turns. At times, it’s poorly centered or too slow, making it difficult to follow the action. While the game does allow you to speed up enemy turns, it doesn’t entirely resolve the problem.

While visually striking, boss battles suffer from a lack of gameplay variety. They follow similar patterns, which can make the boss encounters feel underwhelming. Given how creative the rest of the game is, the boss design feels like a missed opportunity.

Finally, there’s the odd aspect of the tutorial. The tutorial has a strange issue where it occasionally gets stuck in an endless loop for some players. While you can exit and figure out the mechanics on your own, it’s not the smoothest introduction to an otherwise well-made action indie game.

Is it Worth Your Buck?

At around $25, Metal Slug Tactics delivers excellent value for its price. The game offers four unique regions to explore and nine playable characters. On top of that, there is a wealth of weapons and abilities to unlock, so there’s plenty of content to keep players engaged. Its detailed design and attention to progression ensure a rewarding experience for both casual players and completionists alike.

The roguelike structure means that no two playthroughs are the same. Therefore, completionists have something to celebrate. The game can easily sink players into 30+ hours of mastering every character and unlocking every secret. The added replayability through randomized encounters and diverse strategies makes each run feel fresh and exciting.

This action game is an easy pick for fans of tactical RPGs or the Metal Slug series. It values your time with meaningful progression and skips the filler content found in many modern titles. It’s a streamlined, focused experience that delivers exactly what it promises.

Verdict

Metal Slug Tactics succeeds in transforming a beloved action franchise into an engaging tactical RPG. It’s a game that stays true to its roots while bringing out a new identity. The blend of strategic depth, dynamic combat, and nostalgic charm makes it a standout title in the genre.

While it has its flaws, they’re overshadowed by its many strengths. In a world where reboots and spin-offs often feel uninspired, Metal Slug Tactics is a shining example of how to do it right. The game keeps players hooked with its blend of strategy and chaos. For fans of action RPGs with a nostalgic touch, this game is definitely worth the time and attention.