Metal Slug Tactics blends tactical RPG elements with roguelike progression, transforming the classic run-and-gun action of the Metal Slug series into a turn-based strategy experience on PC.
Gameplay
In Metal Slug Tactics, you command a squad of characters from the series, navigating grid-based maps in turn-based combat against the Rebel Army. Each turn, units move, attack, and use abilities fueled by an adrenaline system that builds from actions like moving or dodging. The SYNC mechanic allows coordinated attacks for extra damage when units strike the same target simultaneously.
Combat emphasizes positioning and resource management, with dodging reducing incoming damage and special abilities enabling powerful combos. After battles, you gain experience to unlock weapons, perks, and mods, enhancing your team's capabilities. Roguelike elements mean failures lead to restarts, but progress carries over through upgrades, encouraging repeated attempts to master strategies.
Reinforcements add variety, letting you call in airstrikes, artillery, or the Metal Slug vehicle for heavy support. With 36 weapons and 176 mods, customization plays a key role in adapting to enemy types and map layouts.
Game Modes
The game centers on a single-player campaign where you progress through 110 hand-crafted maps and 20 mission types, facing challenges from the Rebel Army. Roguelite structure means each run builds on previous ones, with deaths prompting retries and accumulated upgrades.
Missions vary in objectives, from defeating bosses to surviving waves, all tied into the overarching story of stopping General Morden. Replayability comes from experimenting with different team compositions and loadouts across these scenarios.
Characters and Factions
You select from nine iconic characters, including members of the Peregrine Falcons Squad, each with unique skills for building synergistic teams. The main antagonists are the Rebel Army, led by Donald Morden, featuring familiar enemies and bosses from the Metal Slug universe.
Faction dynamics influence gameplay, as you counter Morden's forces with tactical decisions, using the environment and team abilities to outmaneuver them.
Is It Worth Playing?
Metal Slug Tactics appeals to strategy enthusiasts who enjoy roguelite challenges and fans of the original series seeking a fresh take. With mostly positive Steam reviews at 77% from over 1,000 users, it earns praise for its tactical depth and pixel art style, though some note a steep learning curve.
The game remains in a solid state post-launch, offering high replayability through its progression system. If you like turn-based tactics with nostalgic elements, it provides engaging sessions, but it may not suit those preferring fast-paced action without the strategy layer.
