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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

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

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 impresses fans with its lighthearted narrative and nostalgic elements, as General Morden plots world domination while the Peregrine Falcon Squad steps in. Critics praise its accessibility and humor, aligning well with the franchise's spirit. However, many find the story shallow, lacking depth and complexity, often serving as a mere backdrop for gameplay rather than a compelling narrative. While fans may enjoy the familiar characters and tone, those seeking a richer storyline might be left disappointed.

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 reviews for Metal Slug Tactics present a generally positive sentiment regarding its narrative, particularly for fans of the franchise. Critics like CGMagazine and Checkpoint Gaming appreciate the light and engaging plot that revolves around General Donald Morden's attempts at world domination, with the Peregrine Falcon Squad tasked to thwart him. The narrative is noted for its accessibility, making it welcoming for newcomers while still offering nostalgic elements for long-time fans. IGN highlights the "rule of cool" aspect of the story, embracing action and chaos, which aligns well with the series' legacy. The lighthearted tone and humor, as noted by SpazioGames, resonate well with the franchise's spirit, appealing to audiences familiar with its history. However, many critics have pointed out significant shortcomings in the story's depth and complexity. Eurogamer Germany and Gamer Escape emphasize that the narrative is minimal and often serves merely as a backdrop for gameplay rather than a compelling story. Critics like Voxel and The Enemy describe the plot as shallow, lacking substantial narrative progression and depth, which diminishes the overall motivation to engage with the story. The general consensus is that while the game features familiar characters and nostalgic elements, it does not deliver a compelling or intricate narrative, leaving some reviewers disappointed, such as GamersRD and Ragequit.gr. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Metal Slug Tactics successfully captures the essence of the franchise with its familiar characters and lighthearted tone, it falls short in delivering a robust narrative. The story is often seen as a secondary element to the gameplay, with many reviewers noting its simplicity and lack of depth. Critics like God is a Geek and RPGamer encapsulate this sentiment by stating that the narrative serves primarily as a context for tactical battles rather than a central focus. As a result, while the game may delight fans with its nostalgic elements and humor, it may not satisfy those seeking a more intricate and engaging storyline.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Metal Slug Tactics impresses critics with its innovative mix of tactical turn-based gameplay and classic run-and-gun action, praised for strategic movement and engaging mechanics like synchronized attacks. The roguelike structure enhances replayability, keeping missions fresh. However, some reviewers flag repetitive mission design and accessibility issues, particularly for newcomers to tactical RPGs. Despite these drawbacks, the game is celebrated as a strong addition to the Metal Slug franchise, rewarding strategic play and offering a thrilling experience for dedicated players.

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 from critics, who appreciate its innovative blend of tactical turn-based mechanics and classic run-and-gun elements. Many reviewers, such as IGN and Atomix, highlight the game's emphasis on movement and positioning, which adds a layer of strategic depth that enhances the overall experience. Critics like Voxel and PC Gamer praise the game for its engaging mechanics, including unique features like synchronized attacks and resource management systems that encourage aggressive playstyles. The roguelike structure, noted by Eurogamer Portugal and Digital Chumps, is also seen as a significant strength, as it encourages replayability and offers players a variety of mission types and challenges that keep the gameplay fresh and exciting. However, despite the overall acclaim, several critics have pointed out notable shortcomings in the gameplay experience. Reviews from Jeuxvideo.com and RPG Fan mention a tendency for the mission structures to become repetitive, with a lack of complexity that may disappoint seasoned players. Additionally, some critics, like Nintendo Life and SpazioGames, express concerns about restrictive design choices that can hinder enjoyment, particularly in the early stages of the game. The steep learning curve mentioned by Gaming Age and the balancing issues noted by Ragequit.gr suggest that while the game is engaging, it may not be as accessible to all players, especially those unfamiliar with tactical RPGs. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Metal Slug Tactics successfully marries the franchise's classic elements with modern tactical gameplay, resulting in a compelling and enjoyable experience. Most reviewers, including those from Power Unlimited and Shacknews, affirm that the game offers a unique and engaging gameplay loop that rewards strategic thinking and experimentation. While some criticisms regarding repetition and accessibility exist, they do not overshadow the overall positive sentiment surrounding the gameplay. Critics generally agree that the game is a worthy addition to the Metal Slug legacy, providing both depth and excitement for players willing to embrace its tactical challenges.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Metal Slug Tactics wows with its stunning pixel art and vibrant animations, capturing the classic charm of the original series while adding modern flair. Critics rave about its nostalgic visuals, but some note distracting graphical bugs and interface issues. Overall, the game is celebrated for its artistic direction, successfully blending retro aesthetics with a contemporary tactical experience, making it a hit with both fans and newcomers despite minor performance hiccups.

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 acclaim from critics, with many praising the game's exceptional pixel art style that pays homage to the beloved original series. Reviewers from outlets such as Areajugones and CGMagazine highlighted the retro-inspired art and well-animated sprites, noting that the game successfully maintains the iconic look while infusing modern touches and personality into characters and environments. Critics like IGN and Shacknews emphasized the painstaking detail in the pixel art and vibrant animations, which effectively capture the charm of the Metal Slug franchise. The overall aesthetic has been described as nostalgic and gorgeous, serving as a love letter to fans of the classic arcade series, with several reviewers, including God is a Geek and Eurogamer Germany, echoing sentiments about the game's vibrant sprites and lively visual appeal. Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, some critics raised concerns regarding graphical bugs and performance issues that detracted from the overall experience. COGconnected and Ragequit.gr pointed out that while the visuals are striking, the presence of graphical glitches and issues with menu readability can be distracting. Additionally, critics such as Starbit and The Enemy noted inconsistencies in the visuals, with some interface elements lacking clarity and certain animations falling short of expectations. This suggests that while the pixel art is largely well-executed, there are areas where the game could benefit from further polish and refinement. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Metal Slug Tactics successfully captures the essence of the original series through its impressive graphics and visual design. The majority of reviews reflect a strong appreciation for the game's artistic direction, with many praising its ability to evoke nostalgia while adapting to a modern tactical format. Critics like PC Gamer and PlayStation Universe noted that the game retains the charm of the classic titles, even as it introduces new perspectives and enhancements. While there are some valid criticisms regarding performance and minor visual inconsistencies, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with many reviewers celebrating the game's visual achievements as a standout feature that will resonate with both long-time fans and newcomers alike.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Critics rave about the sound design and music in Metal Slug Tactics, praising its energetic, nostalgic soundtrack and engaging sound effects that enhance gameplay. While most agree it's a standout feature, some point out issues like repetition and minor sync problems. Overall, the audio experience is a significant highlight, resonating strongly with fans and contributing to the game's success.

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 received overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics, who highlight the energetic and engaging auditory experience that enhances gameplay. Reviewers such as Areajugones and Shacknews commend the catchy soundtrack and satisfying sound effects, noting that they contribute significantly to the enjoyment of the game both in and out of play. Critics like CGMagazine and IGN emphasize the intensity and triumph of the soundtrack, with IGN specifically praising Tee Lopes's work for its engaging drum and bass elements that evoke a retro vibe. The nostalgic elements are also a recurring theme, with God is a Geek and RPGamer pointing out how familiar sounds and music from the original series resonate with long-time fans, creating a strong connection to the franchise’s legacy. Despite the largely positive reception, a few critics have pointed out some drawbacks. For instance, Voxel mentions that while the music is fun and faithful to the arcade style, it suffers from repetition, which could diminish its charm over time. Additionally, Nintenderos raises concerns about sound synchronization issues that detract from the overall experience, although this was not a widespread complaint. RPG Fan also notes that while the sound effects evoke nostalgia, they do not significantly elevate the experience, suggesting that there may be room for improvement in creating a more immersive auditory environment. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the sound design and music in Metal Slug Tactics are exceptional and a highlight of the game. Most reviewers, including Eurogamer Germany and XboxEra, agree that the soundtrack complements the gameplay effectively and enhances the overall experience. The combination of nostalgic elements, energetic compositions, and well-executed sound effects has resonated well with players, making it a standout feature of the game. Critics like Pure Nintendo and MeuPlayStation further reinforce this sentiment by praising the military vibe and urgency conveyed through the music, solidifying the audio design as a key component of Metal Slug Tactics's success.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Metal Slug Tactics' voice acting receives mixed reviews: some praise nostalgic charm and immersive voices, while others criticize minimal character depth and a lack of comprehensive voice work. Critics highlight missed opportunities for humor and engagement, with notable inconsistencies in localization. Overall, while nostalgia resonates, the game falls short of delivering a rich 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 voice acting in Metal Slug Tactics has garnered some positive remarks from critics, particularly in terms of nostalgia and immersion. Areajugones highlights the presence of "charismatic voices" that contribute to the overall immersive experience, suggesting that certain elements of the voice work resonate well with players. Additionally, TheSixthAxis notes that the digitized voice work aligns with the nostalgic theme of the game, enhancing the overall experience for fans of the series. Furthermore, PC Gamer points out the classic announcer voice, which serves as a nod to the franchise's history, indicating that there are elements of voice work that evoke fond memories for long-time players. However, the critiques also reveal significant shortcomings in the voice acting of Metal Slug Tactics. RPGamer describes the voice acting as minimal, with characters exhibiting little personality beyond basic interactions, which detracts from character development and engagement. Softpedia goes even further, stating that there is no voice acting in the game at all, labeling it a missed opportunity to inject humor and depth into character interactions. Atomix echoes this sentiment by noting the absence of voice acting for character interactions, which could have significantly enriched the gameplay experience. Generación Xbox adds to this critique by pointing out inconsistencies in the Spanish voice acting, where some terms do not fit the context and parts of the text appear in English, highlighting a lack of attention to detail. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed, with a notable divide between those who appreciate the nostalgic elements of the voice work and those who find the lack of comprehensive voice acting a major drawback. While some critics like Areajugones and TheSixthAxis recognize the charm of certain voices, others such as RPGamer, Softpedia, and Atomix emphasize the limitations and missed opportunities in character interactions. The feedback suggests that while the game successfully taps into nostalgia, it ultimately falls short in delivering a robust and engaging voice acting experience, leaving players wanting more depth and personality from the characters.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Metal Slug Tactics faces significant technical performance issues across all platforms. While the PC version offers an enjoyable experience despite some bugs, critics highlight major stability concerns. The Xbox Series X performs well, but the Nintendo Switch suffers from frame drops and interface problems. The PS5 version is particularly problematic, plagued by long loading times and crashes, leading to a frustrating experience. Overall, developers need to address these issues for an improved gameplay experience.

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.

The technical performance of Metal Slug Tactics varies across platforms, with some positives noted by critics. On PC, several reviewers, including Checkpoint Gaming and Gamer Escape, acknowledged that while there are bugs present, they are generally not game-breaking and the experience remains enjoyable. XboxEra reported that the game runs well on Xbox Series X with no major bugs, while Generación Xbox echoed this sentiment, indicating a solid performance overall. The Nintendo Switch also has its merits, with Starbit noting that the game performs competently despite minor frame drops during intense action sequences. On PS5, GameGrin suggested a smooth experience, while SpazioGames highlighted that the game runs at a stable 60 fps, which is commendable. However, the negatives for each platform are quite pronounced. On PC, critics like Eurogamer Germany and GamesRadar+ pointed out stability issues, bugs, and control malfunctions that indicate a need for further polish. On the Nintendo Switch, Nintenderos and Digital Chumps expressed concerns about performance issues, including frame drops and a difficult-to-read interface, which detract from the gameplay experience. The PS5 version appears to suffer the most, with multiple reviewers, such as Atomix and Hey Poor Player, citing significant performance issues, including long loading times, crashes, and lag that disrupt the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among critics across all platforms is that Metal Slug Tactics has notable technical performance issues that need addressing, particularly on PS5 and Nintendo Switch. While the PC version shows some promise with manageable bugs, the frequent mentions of glitches and stability concerns suggest that the game requires further refinement. The PS5 version, in particular, has drawn criticism for its performance, with reviewers like GamersRD and Jeuxvideo.com highlighting slowdowns and loading issues that significantly impact gameplay. In summary, while there are redeeming qualities across platforms, the technical performance of Metal Slug Tactics remains a significant concern that developers must address to enhance player experience.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Metal Slug Tactics is praised for its replay value, thanks to engaging mechanics, roguelike features, and diverse missions that encourage strategic adaptation. Critics enjoy the "just one more run" vibe but raise concerns about repetitive gameplay and a steep learning curve that could limit long-term appeal. While it shines for tactical fans, some believe it needs more content to keep a wider audience 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 engaging mechanics and roguelike elements. Reviewers such as Areajugones and CGMagazine emphasize the significant replay value derived from randomly generated levels and varied mission choices, which encourage players to adapt their strategies over multiple playthroughs. The inclusion of optional objectives, character customization, and the pursuit of upgrades are also noted by Checkpoint Gaming and Eurogamer Germany as factors that enhance the game's replayability. Critics like Softpedia and Shacknews appreciate the "just one more run" feeling that is characteristic of rogue-lites, suggesting that the game successfully keeps players engaged with its tactical engagements and diverse gameplay options. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the game's replay value that cannot be overlooked. Some reviewers, including Gamersky and RPGamer, point out that the fixed structure of levels and repetitive gameplay can lead to a sense of monotony over time. Critics like Multiplayer.it and Jeuxvideo.com echo this sentiment, suggesting that while the game offers a solid roguelike experience, it may become repetitive, which could detract from long-term replayability. Additionally, the high learning curve and difficulty spikes mentioned by Gaming Age and TheXboxHub may deter some players from fully exploring the game's content, potentially limiting their engagement. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Metal Slug Tactics offers a commendable level of replay value, primarily due to its roguelike mechanics and the variety of characters and missions available. While many reviewers, such as Vandal and XboxEra, appreciate the encouragement to experiment with different strategies and team compositions, concerns about repetition and a lack of depth in challenge options persist. Ultimately, the game appears to cater well to fans of tactical gameplay and the roguelike genre, although it may require additional content or refinements to maintain long-term interest among a broader audience.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

53%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

45%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

Metal Slug Tactics has garnered a generally positive reception among critics, who appreciate its innovative approach to the classic franchise. Many reviewers, such as IGN and God is a Geek, commend the game for successfully merging the nostalgic elements of the original series with tactical RPG mechanics, creating an engaging experience that resonates with both longtime fans and newcomers. Critics like Gamersky and Gamer Escape highlight the game's fun and dynamic gameplay, noting that it captures the essence of the Metal Slug series while introducing fresh elements. The charming visuals and sound design have also been praised, with several reviewers, including COGconnected and CGMagazine, emphasizing how these aspects enhance the overall experience. However, the game is not without its flaws, as numerous critics point out several technical issues that detract from the gameplay experience. GameSpew and Jeuxvideo.com mention pacing and repetitive structures that could alienate some players, while others like RPG Fan and Vgames criticize the lack of depth in storytelling and gameplay, making it feel somewhat unremarkable. Additionally, technical problems, such as bugs and a lack of clear tutorials, have been highlighted by reviewers like GamesRadar+ and Eurogamer Portugal, which can hinder the overall enjoyment and accessibility of the game. Critics also note that the game may present a steep learning curve, as mentioned by TheXboxHub and Eurogamer Germany, making it potentially challenging for new players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Metal Slug Tactics offers a refreshing take on a beloved franchise, it is marred by technical shortcomings and a lack of depth in certain areas. Despite these issues, many reviewers, including PlayStation Universe and Checkpoint Gaming, still recommend the game for its engaging gameplay and nostalgic appeal. The game seems to resonate particularly well with fans of the series, as noted by Ragequit.gr and Impulsegamer, who find its charm and strategic elements compelling. In summary, Metal Slug Tactics is viewed as a worthwhile entry into the tactical RPG genre, though it requires some refinement and polish to fully realize its potential.

TL;DR

Metal Slug Tactics impresses with its blend of nostalgic gameplay and tactical RPG mechanics, earning praise for its charm and engaging visuals. However, critics flag technical issues, pacing problems, and a lack of depth in story and gameplay as major drawbacks. While it shines for series fans, newcomers may struggle with its learning curve. Overall, it's a solid but imperfect addition to the franchise that could benefit from refinement.

MONSTER

Reviews

105 reviews found

GameGrin

PlayStation 5

Nov 5, 2024