This is the first time players could take branching pathways through the game, with the opening four missions offering at least two paths each. The third entry is widely regarded as the series' pinnacle, continuing the same intense run-and-gun action while adding several improvements. With that said, it seemed appropriate to refresh this list and equip it with even more notable titles in the series. Little is known about this anticipated release, but what is known is the timeless draw of this feverishly addictive sidescrolling shooter. Though SNK has thus far mostly stuck with the 'if it ain't broke, don't fix it' mantra regarding the series' formula, Leikir Studio and Dotemu look to venture into new territory with a roguelike RPG twist on the franchise, Metal Slug Tactics.

It's hard not to be drawn in by the delightfully old-school pixel art and the frantic run-and-gun insanity. Updated Jby Stephen LaGioia: Despite its crude retro style - and perhaps even because of it - the Metal Slug series has maintained a certain charm and appeal even after over two decades. With 13 mainline titles in the series, the progression is fascinating to track from simple 2D side-scrolling shooter all the way to its only 3D entry. RELATED: The Best Run & Gun Games Of All TimeĪs the flagship title for SNK, one of the biggest developers of that era, Metal Slug holds an important place in the hearts of gamers everywhere. A soldier with a gun, running across the screen and shooting the bad guys, with increasingly more bombastic weapons. The franchise arguably perfected the run-and-gun formula begun on home consoles by the NES classic Contra. Say the words ' Metal Slug' in a group of old-school gamers and more than a few eyes will light up.

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