Metal Slug Tactics
A turn-based tactics spin-off of the Metal Slug series.
Metal Slug Tactics is a turn-based tactics video game developed by Leikir Studio and published by Dotemu. A spin-off of the Metal Slug series, it was released on November 5, 2024 for multiple platforms. Unlike the run and gun gameplay of earlier Metal Slug titles, this entry adopts an isometric perspective and turn-based combat, incorporating roguelike elements such as campaign restarts upon total squad defeat.
Quick Facts
- Developer
- Leikir Studio
- Publisher
- Dotemu
- Series
- Metal Slug
- Platforms
- Microsoft Windows · Nintendo Switch · PlayStation 4 · PlayStation 5 · Xbox One · Xbox Series X/S
- Released
- November 5, 2024
- Genre
- Turn-based tactics
- Modes
- Single-player
- Composer
- Tee Lopes
- Engine
- Unity
Facts from the source article.
Lore & Background
Metal Slug Tactics was developed by Leikir Studio, based in Paris, after SNK invited Dotemu to revive one of its dormant franchises following the success of games such as Wonder Boy: The Dragon's Trap and Streets of Rage 4. Metal Slug was chosen as it is one of the few SNK-owned franchises not focused on fighting games. Leikir pitched the project to SNK in 2018, and full development began in 2019. SNK gave Leikir access to all assets from older Metal Slug games, but those assets were not usable due to the change in gameplay perspective. Into the Breach served as an important inspiration, and the gameplay is speed-oriented despite being turn-based, paying homage to the franchise's action roots. The game was officially announced by Dotemu in June 2021, initially set for a 2023 release but delayed to late 2024.
Reader's Guide
Metal Slug Tactics received generally favorable reviews on Metacritic, with OpenCritic reporting that 68% of critics recommended the game. Charlie Wacholz from IGN praised its faithful adaptation, impressive pixel art, and engaging soundtrack, noting that movement-focused gameplay and mechanics were strong, though bugs and quality-of-life issues hindered the experience. Abbie Stone from GamesRadar+ commended its engaging gameplay and art style but noted that limited tutorials and technical issues, including crashes, affected its overall reception. The game introduces a roguelike structure where players choose three characters from the Peregrine Falcons squad for each mission, using action points for movement and actions, generating adrenaline for special abilities, and triggering sync attacks by positioning characters within line of sight. Environmental hazards and deployable tanks add tactical depth. The game offers a variety of difficulty options for both tactics fans and players unfamiliar with the genre.
Did You Know?
- Metal Slug Tactics is a spin-off of the Metal Slug series, shifting from run and gun to turn-based tactics.
- The game was developed by Leikir Studio, based in Paris, and published by Dotemu.
- Players can deploy a tank into the battlefield, which can attack multiple times per turn depending on fuel.
- The game's release was delayed from 2023 to November 5, 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Metal Slug Tactics?
Metal Slug Tactics is a turn-based tactics spin-off in the long-running Metal Slug franchise, developed by Leikir Studio and published by Dotemu. It launched on November 5, 2024, marking the first time the series shifted away from its signature run-and-gun action format.
How does Metal Slug Tactics's gameplay work?
The game uses an isometric perspective and turn-based combat rather than the side-scrolling shooting of previous entries. It also layers in roguelike mechanics, meaning a full squad wipe forces you to restart the campaign from the beginning.
What platforms can I play Metal Slug Tactics on?
The title is available on Microsoft Windows, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S. It launched simultaneously across all of those platforms on November 5, 2024.
Who developed and published Metal Slug Tactics?
Leikir Studio handled development while Dotemu took on publishing duties. The game received generally favorable reviews on Metacritic upon its 2024 release.
Why is Metal Slug Tactics notable in the Metal Slug series?
It represents a major departure from the franchise's established run-and-gun formula, introducing grid-based tactical combat and squad management. The roguelike failure state—where losing your entire squad resets the campaign—adds a layer of tension absent from earlier titles.
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