Talking about Metal Slug 2 is like time-traveling back to those glorious days when bullet frenzies and adrenaline mixed with detailed pixel graphics and a unique sense of humor. In this second installment, SNK nailed the classic run-and-gun essence and ramped up the style and challenge. For those of us who lived through the golden age of arcades, this game is more than just a game—it’s an emblem of skill and resilience. Here’s the good, the bad, and the epic of Metal Slug 2 for anyone who hasn’t dived in yet (or needs an excuse to jump back in).
When Did Metal Slug 2 Release?
This game launched in 1998, and although a lot of time has passed, its charm is just as alive as it was on release day. Since it first hit arcades, it’s been a cornerstone in the action genre, with multiple re-releases and adaptations for various consoles. At the tail end of the ’90s, the game amazed everyone with its high-quality graphics for the time and fast-paced, addictive gameplay.
The Good
1. Level Design and Variety of Settings
SNK really outdid themselves with the levels in Metal Slug 2. Each location is like a small pixel masterpiece, from Egypt’s mummy-filled ruins to war-torn cities. Unlike the first game, we get to explore different environments, and each one has its own charm and unique dangers—from traps to new enemies. It’s amazing how they keep you on edge while facing waves of soldiers and enemy vehicles.
2. Weapons and Power-Ups
If anything makes Metal Slug stand out, it’s the weapons that make us feel invincible… until they’re gone. Metal Slug 2 introduced new power-ups like the Heavy Machine Gun, the flamethrower, and my favorite, the Rocket Launcher, which makes enemies explode in a brutal display of visual effects. Plus, the game lets you use the iconic “Slug” vehicles—these armored beasts add a layer of strategy to the game. They grant more firepower, but also make you a bit slower and more vulnerable.
3. Co-op Mode in Metal Slug 2
This game shines in co-op mode. There’s nothing like sharing the screen with a friend, having each other’s backs, and battling through waves of enemies. The game lets you save the other player from near-impossible situations, adding camaraderie and adrenaline you rarely find in other action games. If you love chaotic action with friends, this mode is an absolute gem.
The Bad
1. The Notorious FPS Drop
Let’s be real: the game suffers from serious FPS drops. When the screen is packed with enemies, bullets, and explosions, the game slows down significantly. It’s part of the vintage experience, but I’ll admit it can be frustrating, especially in the later stages where even a split-second delay can mean life or death. Metal Slug X (which we’ll cover in another post), a remaster of the game, tries to fix this, but in the original, it does affect the experience.
2. Relentless Difficulty
Don’t get me wrong, the difficulty in Metal Slug 2 is part of its appeal, but it’s also a double-edged sword. For newcomers or players not used to ‘90s arcade games, the challenge can feel overwhelming. In this game, every bullet counts, and every mistake has consequences. SNK’s signature “bullet hell” is not for the faint-hearted, and this level of difficulty might turn off those looking for a more casual experience.
The Epic
1. Enemies and Bosses in Metal Slug 2
The enemies in this game are legendary—from basic soldiers to mummies that turn you into a slower, weaker version of yourself if they hit you. And the bosses! Giant war machines, nightmare-inducing helicopters, and even a kind of desert god you can only beat with perseverance and skill. Every boss requires a unique strategy, and defeating them gives you a sense of achievement few games can match.
2. Humor and Visual Style
One of Metal Slug’s trademarks is its mix of violence with an almost cartoonish sense of humor. The character animations are impressive, from enemy soldiers fleeing in fear to the main characters celebrating each victory. The visual style is a work of art, with incredible detail that makes every scene feel part of a bigger story. And, of course, the comical characters and transformations—like turning into a mummy—are simply epic.
3. The Soundtrack
It’s impossible to talk about Metal Slug 2 without mentioning its soundtrack. From the explosive sounds to each mission’s main theme, the music creates a sense of urgency and heroism that drives you forward. Each mission has a musical composition that transports you into an action movie, a touch that has aged beautifully. These tunes bring back memories of every level with just a few notes.
Who Are the Characters in Metal Slug 2?
In Metal Slug 2, we have the classic squad members: Marco Rossi and Tarma Roving, both from the Peregrine Falcon Strike Force. But this installment introduces two new faces who became series favorites: Eri Kasamoto and Fio Germi, members of the S.P.A.R.R.O.W.S. squad. This expanded roster brought more diversity and depth to the game, with unique styles and extra charisma from each character.
Conclusion: Is Metal Slug 2 Worth Playing Today?
Metal Slug 2, with all its pros and cons, is a gem every gamer should experience at least once. Its fast-paced action, humor, and visual style make it a classic that, while not perfect, stands the test of time.
It’s a challenge, an epic journey, and a source of laughs in co-op mode, with a visual design and sense of humor that turned it into an icon. So, if you love challenges and stories with a touch of comedy, this game deserves a spot in your collection.
I’m GeekGamer—see you in the next post!