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Metal Slug Tactics

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Metal Slug Tactics
Item: Metal Slug Tactics
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

GenresAdventure, Indie, Action, RPG, Fighting, Top-Down Perspective, Strategy, Military and Warfare, Single Player

AvailableDec 31, 2023

PlatformXbox Series X, PlayStation 5, PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One

DeveloperLeikir Studio

Overview

METAL SLUG is back with a brand new entry in the METAL SLUG universe. Discover a new side of the emblematic run'n'gun and jump into a dynamic tactical RPG with roguelike elements!

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Metal Slug Tactics is praised for its nostalgic charm and lighthearted humor, bringing back familiar characters and themes against the backdrop of General Morden. However, critics argue the story lacks depth and complexity, serving mainly as a backdrop for gameplay rather than an engaging narrative. While it evokes the spirit of the franchise, the plot is deemed shallow, with emotional connections falling flat, making gameplay the true focus of the experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

81%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

12%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The story of Metal Slug Tactics has been generally well-received for its nostalgic appeal and adherence to the franchise's classic themes. Critics like Generación Xbox and Atomix appreciate the straightforward narrative, which places players in familiar territory as they lead a team against the notorious antagonist General Donald Morden. The game is praised for its lighthearted tone and character interactions, with PlayStation Universe noting that small character moments and dialogue exchanges enhance the overall experience. Additionally, SpazioGames highlights the humor and spirit of the series, suggesting that the narrative captures the essence of what long-time fans love about Metal Slug. However, many reviews point out significant shortcomings in the story's depth and complexity. Critics such as Vgames and GamersRD describe the narrative as basic and minimal, often serving merely as a backdrop for gameplay rather than a compelling story. The consensus among reviewers like Eurogamer Germany and Gamer Escape is that the plot lacks substantial development, with many feeling that it fails to create strong emotional attachments or motivations for players. The narrative's simplicity is further echoed by critics like RPGamer and ZTGD, who note that while the characters are familiar and likable, the overall storytelling feels shallow and underdeveloped. Overall, the critical consensus suggests that while Metal Slug Tactics successfully evokes the charm and humor of the original series, its narrative is not a primary focus. The game is appreciated for its nostalgic elements and character-driven moments, but many reviewers, including IGN and Digital Chumps, agree that the story is ultimately secondary to the tactical gameplay. This sentiment is reinforced by the majority of critics who emphasize that the game leans towards action and gameplay mechanics rather than delivering a rich and engaging narrative experience.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Metal Slug Tactics impresses with its innovative mix of tactical RPG and classic run-and-gun gameplay, praised for strategic depth and engaging mechanics like the Adrenaline system. Critics highlight its replayability and team synergy, but caution about repetitiveness and a steep learning curve that may deter newcomers. Overall, it’s a strong adaptation of the beloved franchise, blending tactical thrills with fast-paced action, appealing to both new players and veterans, despite some limitations.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

81%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

19%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Metal Slug Tactics has garnered a largely positive reception among critics, highlighting its innovative blend of tactical RPG elements with the franchise's classic run-and-gun mechanics. Reviewers like RPG Fan and Atomix praised the game's intuitive design and strategic depth, emphasizing the roguelike structure that encourages experimentation and replayability. Critics such as Vgames and GameSpot noted the engaging nature of the gameplay, which rewards players for mastering unit coordination and utilizing character abilities effectively. The inclusion of unique mechanics like the Adrenaline system and sync attacks adds layers of strategy, making the combat experience both dynamic and enjoyable. The focus on movement and team synergy, as highlighted by Softpedia and IGN, further enhances the overall gameplay experience, creating a sense of excitement and challenge. However, several critics pointed out notable drawbacks that may affect player enjoyment. A common critique is the repetitiveness of mission structures, as highlighted by Jeuxvideo.com and RPGamer, which may lead to a sense of monotony over time. Additionally, the steep learning curve mentioned by Gaming Age and the restrictive design choices noted by Nintendo Life can hinder the early game experience for new players. Some reviewers, like SpazioGames and PC Gamer, expressed concerns about a lack of depth in certain gameplay aspects, suggesting that while the mechanics are engaging, they can also feel limiting or overly simplistic, especially for veterans of the genre. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Metal Slug Tactics successfully adapts the beloved elements of the original franchise into a tactical format, offering a unique and engaging gameplay experience. While there are criticisms regarding repetitiveness and a steep learning curve, the majority of reviewers, including those from GameGrin and Power Unlimited, agree that the game excels in its strategic gameplay and innovative mechanics. The game effectively balances the thrill of tactical decision-making with the fast-paced action fans expect from the Metal Slug series, making it a worthy addition to the genre that appeals to both newcomers and seasoned players alike.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Metal Slug Tactics impresses with vibrant graphics that faithfully capture the iconic Metal Slug aesthetic, blending pixel art with modern tactical RPG elements. Critics praise its rich isometric design and detailed character models, though some note performance issues, clarity problems in crowded scenes, and camera limitations that hinder full appreciation of the visuals. Overall, it successfully honors the franchise's legacy while appealing to new players, despite a few notable flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

75%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

25%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of Metal Slug Tactics have garnered widespread praise from critics, who commend the game for its faithful homage to the iconic Metal Slug aesthetic. Reviewers like GameSpot and TheXboxHub highlight the effective translation of pixel art into a tactical RPG format, capturing the series' signature look with vibrant isometric battlegrounds and well-designed character models. Generación Xbox emphasizes the successful integration of retro pixel art with a 3D perspective, enhancing visual detail and interactivity. Critics such as Atomix and PlayStation Universe also appreciate the unique blend of pixel art and anime illustrations, noting the charm and vibrancy of the visuals, while Eurogamer Portugal lauds the comic-style graphics that elevate the combat experience. Overall, the consensus is that the game successfully retains the nostalgic feel of its predecessors while adapting to a new genre. However, not all feedback is entirely positive, as some critics have pointed out various shortcomings. Performance issues, such as slowdowns and lag, were mentioned by GamersRD and Hey Poor Player, which detracted from the overall visual experience. Additionally, some reviewers, like SpazioGames and The Enemy, noted that crowded scenes could occasionally lack clarity, leading to confusion during gameplay. Critics like Ragequit.gr highlighted graphical bugs and menu readability issues, indicating that while the visuals are strong, they are not without their flaws. The inability to rotate the camera, mentioned by Nintenderos and Pure Nintendo, also poses a limitation that affects the player's ability to fully appreciate the detailed environments. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among critics is that Metal Slug Tactics delivers a visually appealing experience that resonates well with fans of the franchise. The majority of reviewers agree that the game successfully captures the essence of the original series while introducing modern enhancements, as noted by CGMagazine and Shacknews. The vibrant pixel art, detailed animations, and well-crafted environments contribute to a nostalgic yet fresh visual experience. Ultimately, while there are some performance and clarity issues, the positive reception of the graphics and visual design underscores the game's ability to honor its legacy while appealing to a new audience.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Metal Slug Tactics has received high praise for its dynamic sound design and nostalgic music, enhancing the gameplay experience. Critics commend Tee Lopes' soundtrack for its intensity and ability to adapt classic themes, though some note issues like repetition and sound sync problems on the Switch. Overall, the audio elements are seen as a major highlight, celebrating the franchise's legacy while delivering an engaging experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

78%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

22%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Metal Slug Tactics have garnered overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics across various platforms. Many reviewers praised the well-executed sound effects, with Generación Xbox highlighting the effectiveness of explosions and attacks in enhancing gameplay. The music, composed by Tee Lopes, has been celebrated for its ability to adapt classic Metal Slug themes to a strategic gameplay style, maintaining a sense of urgency during battles, as noted by Atomix. Critics like MeuPlayStation and Shacknews emphasized the soundtrack's intensity and its ability to elevate the overall experience, with compositions that resonate with the game's action-packed nature. Additionally, the nostalgic elements of the sound design, which include familiar sound effects from the original series, were frequently mentioned, contributing to a sense of familiarity and excitement for long-time fans, as noted by God is a Geek and RPGamer. Despite the general acclaim, a few critics pointed out some shortcomings in the sound design and music. For instance, Voxel mentioned that while the music is fun and faithful to the arcade style, it suffers from repetition, which may detract from the overall experience over time. Additionally, Nintenderos raised concerns about sound synchronization issues on the Nintendo Switch, indicating that technical flaws could impact immersion. RPG Fan also suggested that while the sound effects evoke nostalgia, they do not significantly elevate the experience, hinting at a possible lack of innovation in certain aspects of the audio design. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Metal Slug Tactics features a strong sound design and music that effectively enhances the gameplay experience. The majority of reviews highlight the soundtrack as one of the standout elements of the game, with many praising its energetic and nostalgic qualities. Critics such as IGN and XboxEra emphasized the engaging nature of the soundtrack, which not only celebrates the series' legacy but also complements the gameplay dynamics. While there are minor criticisms regarding repetition and technical issues, the overwhelming sentiment is that the audio elements contribute positively to the overall enjoyment of the game, making it a noteworthy entry in the Metal Slug franchise.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Metal Slug Tactics features some charismatic voice work and nostalgic elements that resonate with players, but critics overwhelmingly express disappointment due to inconsistent Spanish translations, minimal character interactions, and underdeveloped vocal performances. While it pays homage to the franchise, it ultimately misses the mark on creating an immersive and engaging voice acting experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

13%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

63%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

25%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The opinions regarding the voice acting in Metal Slug Tactics reveal a few positive aspects that critics have highlighted. Notably, Areajugones praises the presence of charismatic voices that contribute to an immersive experience, indicating that some elements of voice work resonate well with players. Similarly, TheSixthAxis appreciates the digitized voice work, which aligns with the nostalgic theme of the game, suggesting that it enhances the overall experience for fans of the series. Additionally, the classic announcer voice mentioned by PC Gamer and Vandal serves to evoke fond memories from previous installments, which can be seen as a successful nod to the franchise's history. However, there are significant criticisms regarding the voice acting that cannot be overlooked. Generación Xbox points out inconsistencies in the Spanish voice acting, noting that some terms do not fit the context and that parts of the text appear in English, which can detract from the overall immersion. Atomix highlights the absence of voice acting for character interactions, suggesting that this omission could have enriched the gaming experience. Furthermore, RPGamer mentions that the minimal voice acting results in characters displaying little personality, while Softpedia outright states that the lack of voice acting is a missed opportunity for humor, indicating a consensus that the game's voice work is lacking in depth and engagement. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards disappointment in the voice acting of Metal Slug Tactics. While there are some positive elements, such as nostalgic references and a few charismatic performances, the overall sentiment is that the voice acting is either minimal or inconsistent. Critics like Atomix and RPGamer emphasize the missed opportunities for character development and interaction, while Generación Xbox and Softpedia point out specific flaws in execution. This combination of praise and criticism suggests that while the game may appeal to long-time fans, it ultimately falls short in delivering a fully realized vocal experience that could elevate the gameplay further.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Metal Slug Tactics has a mixed technical performance across platforms. The Xbox Series X and some PCs deliver stable gameplay, while the PS5 and Nintendo Switch suffer from major issues like long loading times, crashes, and frame drops. Critics agree that while the game shows promise, it needs significant updates to address widespread bugs and performance concerns.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

72%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

23%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

Positive Aspects of Technical Performance: Across the various platforms, Metal Slug Tactics has garnered some praise for its technical performance. On the Xbox Series X, Generación Xbox noted that the game performs well technically, indicating a stable experience on this platform. Moving to the PlayStation 5, GameGrin implied a smooth experience without explicitly discussing technical performance, suggesting that some players may have enjoyed a relatively stable gameplay. On PC, several reviews, including those from XboxEra and Shacknews, reported a generally smooth experience with no major bugs, highlighting that the game runs well overall, which is a positive sign for PC gamers. The Nintendo Switch also had some commendable mentions, with Nintendo Life noting that while there are frame rate issues during busy missions, they are not egregious, and Starbit remarked on the game's competent performance with only minor frame drops. Negative Aspects of Technical Performance: However, the technical performance of Metal Slug Tactics is marred by a range of issues across platforms. On the PlayStation 5, Atomix and Hey Poor Player highlighted significant performance problems, including long loading times and crashes that detract from the overall experience. GamersRD echoed these sentiments, mentioning slowdowns that can last up to 15 seconds, while Eurogamer Portugal pointed out navigation problems and small text size that hinder the experience. On PC, while some reviews noted a smooth experience, others like GamesRadar+ and Eurogamer Germany criticized the game for frequent crashes, bugs, and stability issues that indicate a need for further polish. The Nintendo Switch version faced its own challenges, with Nintenderos reporting performance issues, including frame drops and crashes, particularly during intense gameplay moments, and Digital Chumps mentioning UI issues that hinder gameplay. Overall Consensus: The overall consensus among critics reflects a mixed reception regarding the technical performance of Metal Slug Tactics across all platforms. While there are pockets of stability and smooth experiences, particularly on Xbox Series X and some PC configurations, the PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch versions are plagued by notable performance issues that significantly impact gameplay enjoyment. Critics like Metro GameCentral and MeuPlayStation acknowledged the presence of bugs and stability concerns, while others like Ragequit.gr and Gamer Escape pointed out that although the game has technical issues, they are not necessarily game-breaking. Ultimately, while the game shows potential, the widespread technical problems across platforms suggest that further updates and optimizations are necessary to enhance the overall experience for players.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Metal Slug Tactics is generally praised for its strong replay value, driven by engaging roguelike mechanics, diverse characters, and strategic depth. Critics love the addictive gameplay and variety of difficulty settings that encourage multiple runs. However, concerns about luck dependence, high difficulty, and a short game length could hinder long-term engagement. While it lays a solid foundation for replayability, improvements in content and variety are needed to keep players invested.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

51%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

47%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Metal Slug Tactics is predominantly positive, with many critics highlighting the game's roguelike elements as a significant factor in encouraging multiple playthroughs. Reviewers such as Atomix and Eurogamer Portugal praised the variety of characters and upgrades available, which foster experimentation and strategic depth. GameGrin also noted that the game's different difficulty settings and objectives contribute to its addictive nature, enhancing replayability. Critics like Checkpoint Gaming and Softpedia emphasized the engaging mechanics and the "just one more run" feeling typical of roguelites, suggesting that the game successfully captivates players and keeps them coming back for more. However, several reviewers pointed out notable drawbacks that could affect long-term engagement. GameSpot and Vgames expressed concerns about the reliance on luck and the lack of strong motivation to replay immediately after finishing, which may diminish the sense of achievement. Critics like GamersRD and Jeuxvideo.com highlighted the high difficulty and repetitive nature of runs, suggesting that these factors could deter some players from fully exploring the game's content. Additionally, Nintenderos mentioned that the game's relatively short length could limit replay value unless more content is added, indicating a potential issue with longevity. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Metal Slug Tactics offers a solid level of replayability, primarily driven by its roguelike mechanics and character customization options. While many reviewers, including Impulsegamer and XboxEra, found the game engaging and full of potential for multiple runs, concerns about repetition and the game's difficulty were frequently noted. Critics like Power Unlimited and SpazioGames suggested that while the game has a strong foundation for replay value, it could benefit from additional content and variety to maintain player interest over time. Thus, while the game is well-received for its replayability, there are clear areas for improvement that could enhance the overall experience.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

54%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

44%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment surrounding Metal Slug Tactics is largely positive, with many critics praising its ability to blend classic elements of the franchise with new tactical gameplay mechanics. Reviewers like Atomix and Digital Chumps highlight the game's engaging gameplay and charming visuals, while others, such as Gamersky and COGconnected, commend its successful reimagining of the series. Critics like Eurogamer Portugal and Power Unlimited appreciate the game's depth and challenge, indicating that it appeals to both fans of the original series and newcomers looking for a fresh experience. The nostalgic elements, combined with dynamic gameplay, have led many to view Metal Slug Tactics as a worthy addition to the franchise. However, despite the praise, several critics have pointed out significant drawbacks that could affect the game's reception. Technical issues, such as bugs and performance problems, were commonly mentioned by reviewers like GameSpew and Push Square, who noted that these issues could hinder the overall experience. Additionally, a lack of guidance and clarity in gameplay mechanics was criticized by Gamersky and GamesRadar+, suggesting that some players may struggle to fully appreciate the game without proper tutorials. Furthermore, concerns regarding pacing, repetitiveness, and a weak narrative were echoed by critics like RPG Fan and Vandal, indicating that while the game has potential, it also has areas that require improvement. The overall consensus among critics is that Metal Slug Tactics presents a promising and enjoyable experience, albeit with notable caveats. While many reviewers, including IGN and GameSpot, acknowledge the game's successful adaptation of the franchise into a tactical format, they also stress the importance of addressing its technical shortcomings and gameplay depth. The sentiment leans towards optimism, with many believing that with further polish and content expansion, Metal Slug Tactics could reach its full potential as a standout title in the tactical RPG genre. Ultimately, it is recommended for fans of the series, but potential players should be aware of its challenges.

TL;DR

Metal Slug Tactics is a promising blend of nostalgia and tactical gameplay, receiving largely positive reviews for its engaging mechanics and charming visuals. However, critics highlight significant issues like bugs, unclear gameplay guidance, pacing problems, and a weak narrative that could detract from the experience. While it's a worthy addition for fans, improvements are needed for it to truly shine as a standout tactical RPG.

MONSTER

Reviews

107 reviews found

GameGrin

PlayStation 5

Nov 5, 2024