Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Metal Slug 6 retains the series’ signature run-and-gun DNA with lightning-fast, side-scrolling action. Players blast through hordes of enemies using a mix of classic firearms and the new Zantetsu Sword, which not only delivers powerful melee strikes but also neutralizes incoming enemy fire. The removal of the sliding technique may surprise series veterans, but it’s balanced out by a dedicated melee attack that adds a satisfying layer of close-quarters combat.

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The introduction of dual power-up slots is a game-changer, especially in co-op mode. You can carry two special weapons at once, choose which to discard, or even hand one off to a teammate in need. This mechanic fosters teamwork and strategic planning, making every playthrough feel fresh. It’s also complemented by character-specific attributes—running speed, vehicle defense, and ammo capacity vary noticeably between Marco, Tarma, Fio, Eri, Ralf, and Clark.

The game rewards aggressive play with a hit-combo meter at the bottom of the screen. Keep the kills coming in rapid succession and you’ll max out the meter, causing defeated foes to drop coins instead of the usual ammunition. These coins serve as bonuses toward your final score, encouraging you to experiment with different weapons and tactics to chain kills seamlessly.

To accommodate a broader range of players, two new difficulty settings—Easy and Hard—round out the modes. Easy grants unlimited machine-gun ammo but locks out the final stage, making it ideal for newcomers. Hard amps up enemy aggression and bullet patterns for series veterans craving a true challenge. Additionally, the Combat School mode provides bite-sized missions that test specific skills, from precision shooting to timed obstacle runs, offering bite-sized challenges between main runs.

Graphics

True to form, Metal Slug 6 showcases beautifully detailed 2D pixel art that stands out even in an era increasingly dominated by 3D graphics. Each character sprite moves fluidly, with exaggerated run cycles, recoil effects, and expressive idle animations that bring the classic cast to life. The frame-by-frame hand-drawn style retains the series’ charm while incorporating refined color palettes and sharper outlines.

Environmental design is equally impressive, ranging from war-torn villages to alien-infested outposts. Background animations—smoke plumes, flashing laser turrets, and marching enemy columns—create a sense of urgency without cluttering the playfield. Boss fights are staged against elaborately animated backdrops, adding cinematic flair to each climactic encounter.

Vehicles return with updated visuals that reflect their unique defensive attributes. Whether you’re piloting the rugged Camel tank or commandeering a hovering UFO, each vehicle features animated cockpits, damage states, and particle effects that underscore the series’ reputation for explosive set pieces. The new Zantetsu Sword animation, complete with shimmering blade trails and impact sparks, is a particular highlight.

On the PS2 port, the inclusion of an art gallery lets players admire concept sketches and polished key art from Metal Slug 1 through 6. A dedicated sound gallery pairs perfectly with the visuals, allowing fans to listen to the soundtrack’s adrenaline-pumping beats and iconic weapon effects at their leisure.

Story

Metal Slug 6 picks up the narrative thread from Metal Slug 2, X, and 3, revisiting the uneasy alliance between the Rebel army and Martian forces. This time, however, all factions band together to confront an even greater threat. The storyline retains its tongue-in-cheek tone, mixing over-the-top action with cheeky humor, while adding a fresh layer of interstellar intrigue.

The original quartet—Marco, Tarma, Fio, and Eri—are joined by Ikari Warriors legends Ralf and Clark, each bringing distinct attributes and super moves to the fray. Their inclusion isn’t just fan service; it changes how you approach stages, from selecting characters whose speed and ammo capacity suit your playstyle to unlocking powerful team-up maneuvers in co-op runs.

Levels are laid out to reinforce the story beats, pushing players from Earth’s battlefields into alien strongholds. Short cutscenes bookend key missions, blending pixel-art cinematics with snappy dialogue. While the narrative may not break new ground, it sustains momentum throughout, ensuring you’re invested in seeing how the Rebel-Martian alliance holds up under increasing pressure.

The Combat School missions also tie into the story by framing each challenge as a training exercise led by the rebellion, reinforcing the bond between humans and Martians. This layer of meta-narrative keeps even secondary modes feeling connected to the main plot.

Overall Experience

Metal Slug 6 is a triumphant return to form for fans of the franchise, blending classic run-and-gun thrills with thoughtful refinements that keep the action feeling fresh. The dual power-up system and character diversity encourage replayability, while the new sword mechanic and melee attack expand combat options without overcomplicating the core gameplay.

Whether you’re a series veteran or a newcomer, the range of difficulty settings and the Combat School mode ensures there’s something here for every skill level. Easy mode welcomes beginners with open arms, while Hard mode and Combat School challenges offer veterans plenty of reason to keep honing their reflexes and strategies.

The PS2 port’s bonus galleries add value beyond the main campaign, giving fans a rich behind-the-scenes look at the artwork and music that define the series’ aesthetic. These extras serve as a fitting tribute to Metal Slug’s storied history and highlight the care put into every entry.

In the end, Metal Slug 6 exemplifies how to evolve a beloved series without losing its soul. Fast-paced, visually striking, and brimming with cooperative fun, it stands as one of the most engaging 2D shooters of its generation—and a must-play for anyone seeking pure arcade-style action.

Retro Replay Score

7.4/10