After years of anticipation and a frustrating silence, fans of the beloved Metal Slug series have reason to celebrate. Metal Slug Tactics, the surprising new chapter transforming the classic run-and-gun series into a strategy-based game, finally re-emerges with a fresh trailer and a promised fall release. The last significant update was back in August 2022, leaving fans in the dark until now.
The transformation of Metal Slug into a tactics game was an unexpected yet intriguing twist. While genre shifts can often be risky, publisher Dotemu has an impressive history with old-school gaming revivals. Their commitment to maintaining the classic Metal Slug charm while introducing tactical gameplay has fans eager to see if they can deliver another hit, combining nostalgia with innovation through pixel art and fluid animations.
The new trailer, which spotlights characters Marco, Eri, Fio, and Tarma, offers an exciting glimpse into the turn-based gameplay mechanics. Players will need to craft their squads thoughtfully, utilizing each character's unique strengths to navigate and conquer a series of increasingly challenging battles. As players progress through combat, they'll face intense boss fights that pave the way to new regions deeper within enemy territories.
In addition to the trailer, Dotemu provided several captivating screenshots showcasing the game's vibrant design and strategic depth. The visuals retain the iconic Metal Slug aesthetic, ensuring long-time fans feel at home while exploring this new game mode. The pixel art remains as gorgeous as ever, offering a modern yet recognizable take on the series’ trademark look, which has been a fan favorite for decades.
Despite the lack of a concrete release date, Dotemu assures that Metal Slug Tactics will drop in Q4 2024. A more specific launch window narrows expectations to somewhere between October and November. Fans eager to taste the action can look forward to a demo — set to be part of the upcoming Steam Next Fest in June. This should provide an excellent opportunity for players to dive into the game's mechanics and experience the revitalized franchise firsthand.