How Many Metal Slug Games Are There?

How Many Metal Slug Games Are There?

Okay, buckle up, Metal Slug fans! We’re diving deep into the world of run-and-gun action to figure out just how many awesome Metal Slug games are out there. It might seem simple, but with all the different versions and releases, it can get a little tricky. So, let’s get ready to count those slugs!

The Main Metal Slug Series

Let’s start with the core of the action – the main numbered Metal Slug games. These are the ones that most people think of when they hear “Metal Slug.” They’re the backbone of the franchise, packed with intense battles, memorable characters, and lots of explosions.

Metal Slug: Super Vehicle-001

First, there is Metal Slug: Super Vehicle-001. It all started with this gem! Released in 1996, this game introduced us to the world of Marco, Tarma, and all the crazy military action. It’s where we first got to pilot the Metal Slug tank and take down General Morden’s forces. It is a classic game and a must to play.

Metal Slug 2

Next up is Metal Slug 2, which came out in 1998. This one took everything we loved from the first game and made it even better. We got to meet Eri and Fio, two new characters who joined the fight. There were new weapons, new enemies, and even more over-the-top action. This game is known for its creative level design.

Metal Slug X

Metal Slug X is often considered a supercharged version of Metal Slug 2. Released in 1999, it fixed some bugs, added even more weapons and enemies. It’s like Metal Slug 2 but on steroids. Many consider this as the best version of Metal Slug 2. It’s a favorite for many fans due to its rebalanced difficulty and more exciting gameplay.

Metal Slug 3

Moving on to Metal Slug 3 released in 2000, this one is a real treat for fans. It has some of the most memorable levels in the whole series, including the crazy crab boss and the zombie hordes. The gameplay has been polished to perfection. A lot of people call Metal Slug 3 the best in the franchise.

Metal Slug 4

Metal Slug 4, released in 2002, brought a change to the series, with a new developer, Mega Enterprise, taking the reins. It added new elements and tried some changes, but kept the essence of Metal Slug. It introduced Trevor and Nadia as playable characters.

Metal Slug 5

Then, in 2003, we got Metal Slug 5. This game introduced new gameplay mechanics with its slide move and new vehicle. It’s known for its great level designs and tough boss fights. The game is a fun ride from start to finish.

Metal Slug 6

Metal Slug 6, which came out in 2006, is the last numbered game in the main series. It is released in the Atomiswave arcade system. It brought back the original characters from the first game, along with the characters from Metal Slug 3, Ralf and Clark. This game continues the over-the-top style that is the franchise is known for.

Metal Slug 7/Metal Slug XX

The last numbered title in the main series is Metal Slug 7 released in 2008 for the Nintendo DS. It brought all the explosive fun to handheld consoles and introduced a new gameplay mechanic with the Combat School. It was later enhanced and released as Metal Slug XX on the PSP, PS4 and Xbox One adding two more playable characters.

Spin-Offs and Other Metal Slug Games

But wait, there’s more! Besides the main numbered games, there are a few spin-offs and other releases that are still part of the Metal Slug universe. These may not have the classic number in their title, but they offer more Metal Slug fun.

Metal Slug Advance

First up is Metal Slug Advance for the Game Boy Advance. Released in 2004, this game had a unique card system that added a new layer of strategy to the classic gameplay. It’s a great addition for GBA fans. It also featured a story line that is not related to the main series.

Metal Slug Attack

Metal Slug Attack is a free to play tower defense mobile game, it was first released in 2016 for iOS and Android platforms. It features the familiar sprites from the series along with a lot of new units. This game is a unique take on the Metal Slug world.

Metal Slug Defense

Another mobile release, Metal Slug Defense, is a 2D tower defense game released in 2014. The gameplay is similar to Attack, but has its own unique style and level designs. This game is a fun and casual way to engage with the Metal Slug universe.

Metal Slug First Mission and Metal Slug Second Mission

These two are a special case, they are released exclusively for the Neo Geo Pocket Color. Metal Slug: First Mission and Metal Slug: Second Mission are a very interesting case, they try to port the feel of the main game in a handheld version. Despite not being as grand as the main series, they still provide a fun experience for die-hard fans.

Metal Slug Commander

Released in 2023, this one is an idle card game for mobile platforms. It is similar to other idle games, but it features the characters and world of Metal Slug. While not in the same genre as the classic, it’s an addition to the franchise and another way to enjoy the series.

Metal Slug Compilations and Ports

We also have to consider compilations and ports. These are versions of the games that have been released on different platforms. They can be a great way to play the older games on modern systems or have many games in one package.

Metal Slug Anthology

Released in 2006, Metal Slug Anthology compiled Metal Slug 1 to Metal Slug 6 in one package, it was released for PlayStation 2, PSP, and Wii. This compilation is a perfect package for any Metal Slug fan, giving easy access to all the main titles in a single disc.

Metal Slug Collection

This one is released in 2019 for the Nintendo Switch. It features all the games from Metal Slug 1 to Metal Slug 7 and it was made by SNK, it is an excellent way to enjoy the series in the Nintendo Switch system.

Other Ports

Many of the Metal Slug games have been ported to different platforms over the years including PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Steam and iOS/Android. These are versions of the classic games that have been optimized for modern consoles, allowing a new generation of players to play this classic. These can also be a great way to enjoy the series.

So, How Many is That?

Alright, let’s tally it all up. We have the main numbered series from 1 to 7. Then we have spin-offs like Metal Slug Advance, Metal Slug Attack, Metal Slug Defense, First Mission, Second Mission and Commander. And finally, compilations and many ports across different platforms. So, we can say there are many ways to enjoy the series. Let’s make it clear:

• Main Series Games: 7
• Spin-off Games: 6
• Compilations and Ports: Many

So while the main numbered titles are 7, the total number of Metal Slug games and ports of those games is many. This shows the rich history of the franchise. There are so many versions and compilations of the series it is impossible to have an exact number. But, don’t worry about the number, the most important thing is that there are lots of Metal Slug action for everyone to play!

The series continues to have a strong fanbase and has had many re-releases, and because of this the franchise is still going strong for more than two decades. Even if you are new to the series or a longtime veteran there is always a Metal Slug game to have fun with.