A modern twist on some classic run-and-gun mayhem - Metal Slug: Awakening Quick Review

SHOULD I PLAY METAL SLUG: AWAKENING?

Play this one, especially if you’re a fan of the original Metal Slug series or like the simplicity of old-school run-and-gun games. Metal Slug: Awakening takes all the familiarities of this side-scrolling shooter and brings them into the modern age. It’s been a minute since I’ve played any Metal Slug games, but I’d be damned if I wasn’t impressed with the three-dimensional visuals, fully voiced cast, online multiplayer, and the barrage of weapons I could use to destroy all manner of freedom-hating enemies across the map.

TIME PLAYED

I spent around five hours on Metal Slug: Awakening on my Android device so far and have had a pretty great time chatting it up with other players in Andrew Town, the game’s online hub., Along the way, I had the chance to explore the various game modes and upgrade my weapons.

WHAT’S AWESOME ABOUT METAL SLUG: AWAKENING?

• The toys. It ain’t Metal Slug without fun boomsticks, and Metal Slug: Awakening isn’t in short supply. I could freeze, melt, zap, shoot, and chop my way through enemies with classic tools of the trade ranging from items like shotguns and assault rifles to weapons like rocket launches and flamethrowers. The absolute icing on the cake were the many vehicles, such as tanks, machine gun-equipped camels, and jet packs. They probably wouldn’t be approved in an actual theater of war, but they were satisfying enough to use in mobile battles!

• The whole gang. Familiar characters like Marco Rossi and Fio Germi appear in Metal Slug: Awakening but are upgraded with voice acting and a customizable system that allowed me to equip them with various gear and skins. I could even make them fat! On top of that, I could mix and match characters to increase my team’s power as I progressed through story missions and game modes. 

• Pick a mode. Any mode. The many game modes make Metal Slug: Awakening stand out from the classic we’ve come to know. Aside from the main campaign, there’s Prime Showdown, the PVP mode, which sets players against each other for badges and bragging rights.  also liked Hot Pursuit, which consists of mini levels back to back. I could select three skill enhancements to strengthen my character before moving on to the next level in a gauntlet-style match-up. Little bonuses like this mean there’s always lots to do.

• The upgraded graphics. Metal Slug: Awakening visuals look pretty impressive. Not only are the characters three-dimensional, but the action is better than ever. Watching the bullets tear through your opponents or the skeletons of your foe’s charred remains really got my adrenaline going and added to the game’s fun. Metal Slug: Awakening rounds it out with smooth cinematic scenes that tie the story together, culminating in a beautiful visual experience.

WHAT SUCKS IN METAL SLUG: AWAKENING?

• Check that internet connection. Unfortunately, you’ll need a stable internet connection or data to play Metal Slug: Awakening, as it’s an online-only game. The multiplayer modes are a big part of the experience, so this requirement makes sense, but it would be great to play the main campaign or a few game modes offline as well. This is the exact kind of action-packed side-scrolling shoot ’em up I’d love to play when I’m on the go and might not have the best connection.

• The gacha system. There’s a bit of a cash grab for gaining more weapons and earning new characters, which is more of an annoyance than a real hindrance to enjoying this game. There are plenty of ways to spend your money in-game, and these purchases may not always be worth it.

💬 Will you play Metal Slug: Awakening? What’s your favorite weapon?