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Metal Slug Tactics

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

2023

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

AvailableDec 31, 2023

PlatformPC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X, Xbox One, PlayStation 5

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 offers a fun, accessible story that fans and newcomers can enjoy, featuring General Morden’s antics and action-packed chaos reminiscent of '80s films. Critics praise character moments and lighthearted dialogue, but many agree the narrative is shallow and serves merely as a backdrop for gameplay, lacking depth and compelling motivation. Ultimately, while the premise is engaging, the story feels underdeveloped and secondary to the tactical action.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

83%

Negative (0-49)

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

The story of Metal Slug Tactics has received some praise from critics for its engaging and accessible plot, particularly for newcomers to the franchise. CGMagazine highlights the light and enjoyable narrative featuring General Donald Morden's escape and the Peregrine Falcon Squad's efforts to thwart him, which is noted to include nods for long-time fans. Similarly, IGN describes the story as serving the 'rule of cool,' embracing action and chaos reminiscent of '80s action movies, which adds to the overall charm of the game. Some reviewers, like PlayStation Universe, appreciate the small character moments and dialogue that enhance the experience, suggesting that there are elements of character development that resonate with players. However, the majority of critics express concerns regarding the narrative's depth and overall execution. COGconnected points out that while there are attempts to enhance the story through radio communication, it ultimately remains secondary to the gameplay. Gamer Escape and RPGamer both echo this sentiment, stating that the game lacks a compelling narrative and feels minimal, with RPGamer noting a lack of depth and motivation in the story. The Enemy and ZTGD further emphasize that the narrative serves primarily as a backdrop for the action, lacking the compelling elements that would elevate it beyond a simple plot. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while Metal Slug Tactics features a familiar and engaging premise centered around General Morden's machinations, the narrative is largely viewed as underdeveloped and secondary to the gameplay experience. Critics like Gaming Age and Digital Chumps suggest that the series has never been heavily narrative-driven, and this installment continues that trend. While there are enjoyable elements and moments of character interaction, the general sentiment is that the story does not significantly enhance the gameplay, making it more of a means to facilitate tactical battles rather than a compelling narrative in its own right.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Metal Slug Tactics impresses with its innovative mix of turn-based strategy and run-and-gun gameplay, earning praise for its dynamic movement, teamwork, and unique mechanics like sync attacks. Critics hail its fast-paced action and strategic depth but note issues with repetitiveness, a steep learning curve, and a lack of tutorial support that may frustrate newcomers. Despite these flaws, the game is recognized as a strong addition to the tactical RPG genre, successfully blending classic action with strategic planning.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

73%

Mixed (50-79)

27%

Negative (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Metal Slug Tactics has garnered a predominantly positive reception from critics, who appreciate its innovative blend of turn-based strategy and run-and-gun mechanics. Many reviewers, such as CGMagazine and IGN, highlight the game's emphasis on movement, teamwork, and character abilities, which create an engaging and dynamic experience. The introduction of unique mechanics like sync attacks and the Adrenaline system, noted by GamesHub and Softpedia, adds depth to the combat, encouraging players to think strategically about their positioning and resource management. Critics like PC Gamer and Power Unlimited commend the game's fast-paced action and risk-taking elements, which keep players engaged and reward aggressive playstyles. Despite the overall praise, some critics point out notable shortcomings in Metal Slug Tactics. A common concern is the game's repetitiveness, with RPGamer and RPG Fan mentioning a lack of variety in mission types and a potential disinterest for veteran players seeking deeper complexity. Additionally, the steep learning curve and balancing issues, as mentioned by Gaming Age and Ragequit.gr, can pose challenges for newcomers, potentially hindering their enjoyment of the game. Some reviewers, like GamesRadar+, also express frustration with the lack of tutorial support, which could leave players feeling overwhelmed as they navigate the game's mechanics. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Metal Slug Tactics successfully merges tactical gameplay with the franchise's signature action elements, resulting in a unique and enjoyable experience. While some reviewers, including Digital Chumps and Metro GameCentral, acknowledge the game's challenges and minor flaws, the majority agree that its innovative mechanics and strategic depth make it a worthwhile addition to the genre. Critics like Push Square and TheSixthAxis encapsulate this sentiment by praising the game's ability to encourage strategic planning and team synergy, ultimately affirming that Metal Slug Tactics stands out as a strong entry in the tactical RPG landscape.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Metal Slug Tactics dazzles with its nostalgia-soaked 16-bit pixel art, winning over critics with its vibrant animations and detailed environments that pay tribute to the classic arcade series. While the graphics earn high praise for their charm and authenticity, issues like graphical bugs, menu readability problems, and performance slowdowns mar the experience. Overall, it’s a visually impressive homage to Metal Slug, but a few rough edges need smoothing out.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

79%

Mixed (50-79)

21%

Negative (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 received widespread acclaim from critics, who highlight the game's successful retention of the iconic 16-bit pixel art style that has defined the Metal Slug series. CGMagazine praises the polished aesthetic, noting a wealth of animations and detail that adds personality to both characters and environments. Similarly, IGN emphasizes the painstakingly detailed pixel art that captures the charm of the franchise, while Gamer Escape describes the graphics as gorgeous and true to the original style, enhanced by new artwork. Critics like GamesRadar+ and God is a Geek echo these sentiments, celebrating the nostalgic visuals that serve as a love letter to fans of the classic arcade series. The vibrant animations and well-crafted environments further enhance the overall experience, making the game visually appealing across various platforms. Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, some critics have pointed out notable issues that detract from the visual experience. COGconnected and Ragequit.gr mention graphical bugs that can be distracting, with Ragequit.gr also highlighting problems with menu readability. The Enemy criticizes certain aspects, such as simplistic HUD fonts and some disappointing animations, while also lamenting the inability to rotate the camera. Additionally, GamersRD notes performance issues like slowdowns, which can hinder the overall enjoyment of the visual design. These criticisms suggest that while the game excels in many areas, there are elements that require further polish and refinement. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Metal Slug Tactics successfully captures the essence of the beloved franchise through its graphics and visual design, with the majority praising its nostalgic appeal and vibrant animations. Critics like Power Unlimited and PlayStation Universe emphasize that the game faithfully translates the iconic art style into a tactical RPG format, making it a significant draw for long-time fans. While there are some detracting factors, such as graphical glitches and performance issues, the positive reception overwhelmingly highlights the game's successful homage to the series, reinforcing its status as a visually impressive entry in the Metal Slug legacy.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Metal Slug Tactics wows critics with its nostalgic sound design and vibrant soundtrack by Tee Lopes, praised for matching the game’s energy and enriching the overall experience. While some minor drawbacks exist, like the lack of voice acting and less impactful sound effects, the overwhelmingly positive reception solidifies its audio as a standout feature, making it a strong addition to the franchise.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

80%

Mixed (50-79)

20%

Negative (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, highlighting the game's ability to evoke nostalgia while enhancing the gameplay experience. CGMagazine praises the intense and triumphant soundtrack, noting that it perfectly matches the energy of the gameplay. Similarly, Gamer Escape emphasizes that the sound design aligns well with the Metal Slug franchise, providing a high-energy auditory experience. Critics like IGN and Digital Chumps specifically commend Tee Lopes' soundtrack, describing it as a standout feature that incorporates engaging drum and bass elements and a mix of 90s synthwave and rock. This musical backdrop not only elevates the game's atmosphere but also resonates with long-time fans, as God is a Geek points out with the nostalgic 'Mission Start' cue. Despite the overall acclaim, some critics have noted minor drawbacks in the sound design and music. RPG Fan mentions that while the sound effects evoke nostalgia, they do not significantly elevate the experience. Softpedia also points out the absence of voice acting, which could have added another layer to the audio experience. Additionally, while many critics appreciate the familiar sound effects from the original series, some, like RPGamer, suggest that while they contribute to the nostalgic feel, they may not be enough to fully enhance the overall experience in a meaningful way. In summary, the consensus among critics is that the sound design and music of Metal Slug Tactics are very good, with most praising the nostalgic elements and the engaging composition by Tee Lopes. Critics like Metro GameCentral and PlayStation Universe highlight how the soundtrack complements the visuals and gameplay effectively, celebrating the series' history. Overall, the positive sentiments far outweigh the criticisms, establishing Metal Slug Tactics as a strong entry in the franchise, bolstered by its impressive audio experience.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

voice acting

Description unavailable

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Metal Slug Tactics faces significant technical performance issues across all platforms, with PC and PS5 users reporting frequent crashes, glitches, and gameplay disruptions. While some critics note that the game is playable and developers are working on fixes, the overall reception is mixed, highlighting UI problems on Switch and performance inconsistencies everywhere. The consensus? Promising potential overshadowed by persistent bugs and a need for substantial polish.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

77%

Negative (0-49)

23%

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

The technical performance of Metal Slug Tactics has garnered a mixed reception across different platforms, with some positives noted by critics. On PC, several reviewers, including ZTGD, reported that the game is playable without major technical issues, indicating that the experience can be enjoyable despite some minor bugs. Gamer Escape acknowledged that while there are performance issues, they are not game-breaking, and the developer is actively working on fixes, which is a promising sign for future improvements. On the Nintendo Switch, while Digital Chumps pointed out UI issues with small text and icons, the overall experience was not severely hampered. Nintendo Life also noted that frame rate issues during busy missions were present but not egregious. On PS5, GameGrin implied a smooth experience, suggesting that some players may have encountered fewer issues than others. However, the negatives are more pronounced, particularly on PC and PS5. Many critics, such as GamesRadar+ and Ragequit.gr, highlighted frequent crashes, glitches, and bugs that hinder the gameplay experience. PC Gamer mentioned pathing issues and minor bugs that could affect gameplay, while RPG Fan pointed out frame drops and a clunky UI. On the PS5, GamersRD reported significant slowdowns lasting up to 15 seconds, which disrupts gameplay, while Hey Poor Player described lag and crashes as significant performance issues. Additionally, GameSpew noted fiddly controls, indicating that technical performance concerns are prevalent. The issues on the Switch, including small text and UI problems, also detract from the overall user experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Metal Slug Tactics is plagued by a range of technical performance issues across all platforms, with PC and PS5 facing the brunt of the criticism. While there are some positive aspects, such as the game being playable and the developers' commitment to addressing bugs, the frequent crashes, glitches, and performance inconsistencies have left many reviewers, including those from IGN and Metro GameCentral, calling for further polish and stability improvements. The sentiment suggests that while the game has potential, it currently suffers from technical shortcomings that detract from the overall experience, necessitating ongoing updates and fixes to enhance gameplay.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Metal Slug Tactics strikes a chord with critics for its engaging roguelike mechanics that boost replayability through varied missions and character strategies. However, some reviewers highlight concerns over repetitive gameplay, steep learning curves, and reliance on luck, which can dampen the experience. While it appeals to franchise fans and tactical gameplay enthusiasts, it may leave others craving more depth and content for sustained interest. Overall, a solid but imperfect tactical experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

45%

Mixed (50-79)

55%

Negative (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 among critics. Many reviewers highlight the game's engaging mechanics, particularly its roguelike elements, which significantly enhance replayability. For instance, CGMagazine praises the optional objectives and varied mission choices that encourage multiple playthroughs. Similarly, Digital Chumps emphasizes the game's engaging gameplay mechanics and the encouragement for players to experiment with different strategies and character combinations. Critics like Softpedia and TheSixthAxis also note the "just one more run" feeling typical of roguelites, suggesting that the procedural generation and variety of builds contribute to a fresh experience in each playthrough. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the replay value of Metal Slug Tactics. Some reviewers, such as RPGamer and RPG Fan, point out that the gameplay can become repetitive over time, with minimal story elements and few incentives to continue playing after initial runs. The difficulty spikes and high learning curve mentioned by Gaming Age and GamersRD may deter some players from fully exploring the content, leading to frustration rather than engagement. Additionally, GameSpot raises concerns about the reliance on luck in randomized levels, which could undermine the sense of progress and achievement that many players seek in a game designed for replayability. In summary, while there is a consensus that Metal Slug Tactics offers a solid foundation for replay value through its roguelike elements, varied missions, and character unlocks, the experience may not be universally appealing. Critics like IGN and Power Unlimited suggest that despite the potential for replayability, the game could benefit from more depth in challenge options and additional content to sustain long-term interest. Overall, the game seems to cater well to fans of the franchise and those who enjoy tactical gameplay, but it may pose challenges for players seeking a more balanced experience.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive (80-100)

53%

Mixed (50-79)

45%

Negative (0-49)

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

Metal Slug Tactics has garnered a generally positive reception from critics, highlighting its successful adaptation of the beloved franchise into a tactical RPG format. Many reviewers, such as CGMagazine and GamesHub, praised the game for its enjoyable gameplay, clever design, and engaging mechanics, making it appealing to both long-time fans and newcomers. The game is recognized for its charming aesthetics and sound, with PC Gamer noting it as a "smart and stylish adaptation" that captures the spirit of the original series. Additionally, critics like Gamer Escape and TheSixthAxis emphasized the game's nostalgic elements and its ability to blend classic Metal Slug features with strategic gameplay, suggesting that it offers a refreshing take on the genre. However, several reviewers pointed out notable shortcomings that detract from the overall experience. Critics such as GamesRadar+ and God is a Geek mentioned technical issues, including bugs and a lack of clarity in tutorials, which can hinder player enjoyment. Others, like RPGamer and RPG Fan, expressed concerns about the game's depth and storytelling, suggesting that it may fall short in providing a fully fleshed-out experience. Furthermore, some critics, including Movies Games and Tech, highlighted issues with balance and pacing, suggesting that the game sometimes feels more like a puzzle than a traditional strategy experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Metal Slug Tactics is a worthy addition to the franchise, successfully reinventing the classic formula while introducing new gameplay mechanics. While it faces challenges such as technical flaws and a steep learning curve, many reviewers, including IGN and Power Unlimited, recommend it for fans of the genre and series. The game is seen as a charming and enjoyable experience, albeit with some caveats that may affect its appeal to a broader audience. Ultimately, it stands out as a creative and engaging title, reflecting the essence of the Metal Slug series while embracing the tactical RPG format.

TL;DR

Metal Slug Tactics impresses critics with its successful transition to a tactical RPG, praised for enjoyable gameplay, charming aesthetics, and nostalgic elements. However, it faces criticisms for technical issues, unclear tutorials, and a lack of depth in storytelling. Despite these flaws, it's recommended for fans of the franchise and genre, offering a fresh take that captures the original's spirit. Overall, it's a creative and engaging title, though not without its challenges.

MONSTER

Reviews

101 reviews found

GameGrin

PlayStation 5

Nov 5, 2024