 Preview By: Matt Flanagan |
Developer: | SNK Playmore |
| Publisher: | SNK Playmore | |
| Genre: | Compilation | |
| ESRB: | Teen | |
| # Of Players: | 1-4 | |
| Online Play: | No | |
| Accessories: | GameCube controller | |
| Estimated Release: | 12/14/2006 |
Metal Slug is one of the best side-scrolling action franchises out there (at least in my opinion), and like any Slug fan worth his weight in Neo Geo Pocket Colors I was thrilled to hear that a collection of seven games in the series is scheduled for release sometime around the launch of the Wii! That’s right, SNK is putting a game on a Nintendo console for the first time since Fatal Fury Special on the SNES. I, for one, welcome them back with open arms.
Metal Slug Anthology isn’t a brand new game; like I said it’s a collection of seven arcade games spanning the life of the series. The anthology includes Metal Slug 1-6, as well as Metal Slug X (which is basically a beefed up remake of MS2). Luckily for the purists that are worried about the quality of the games, SNK has promised that each one will be ported directly from the arcade versions, and each level will play exactly as you remember it.
For those of you who've never played a game in the series, let me explain what to expect from the games in Anthology. A Metal Slug game is an old school platforming shoot-em-up, kind of like Contra or Gunstar Heroes. Each game features beautiful hand-drawn (2D) graphics, and stands out from other games in the genre by actually letting you fight your enemies hand-to-hand (you don't die simply by touching them). They tell your typical action-game stories of warring armies, one of which you are a member.
As far as the controls go, there are several different modes to chose from. They range from using the Wii-mote to aim and joystick to move, using the D-pad for movement, and a few more creative control schemes even including sitting the Wii-mote on a table and using it as a joystick. For those of you who either don't want to use the Wii controller or need time to get used to it, the game also supports GameCube controllers for a more classic feel.
Fortunately (or unfortunately depending on what you're looking for) the games have been ported over meticulously, which means people who don't like the old-fashioned side-scrolling gameplay that these games have to offer will probably want to pass this one up (and miss out on some great fun in the process). On the other hand, fans of NES/SNES style "run and gun" games will probably want to go out and get this on day one.
Posted: 2006-10-30 13:05:45 PST