While it may not be the Metal Slug game that purists were looking forward to, Metal Slug Tactics has been confirmed for the Nintendo Switch.
Developed by Leikir Studio, Metal Slug Tactics is a departure from the conventional 2D run and gun gameplay of old. Instead, the game now plays a grid-based style of gameplay; think of it as a tactical RPG. The reveal was announced during the 2021 Nintendo Indie Showcase and follows the prior release date announced for the PC (Steam).
“Metal Slug Tactics reunites Marco, Eri, Fio, and Tarma as they lead the Peregrine Falcon Squad into a new battlefield through dynamic, strategic combat. Players wield classic METAL SLUG weaponry, leveraging skill trees, perks, and a super attack-fueling adrenaline system to outwit and demolish flanks of the series’ signature villains. Metal Slug Tactics’ challenging missions build levels from different combinations of hand-crafted terrain tiles, keeping battle layouts unpredictable and ensuring clashes are won through calculated strategy rather than memorization.
Roguelite elements make missions highly replayable and victories feel truly earned, but should a cunning squad or fiendish boss persevere, rounds are quick to jump back into. Paired with gorgeous pixel art and fluid animation which faithfully channels the series’ timeless aesthetic, Metal Slug Tactics is a natural extension of METAL SLUG’s beloved visuals.
Each mission’s heated battle is energized through original music by Tee Lopes (Sonic Mania, League of Legends, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge, and Streets of Rage 4’s Mr. X Nightmare DLC among other titles). Metal Slug Tactics is both a respectful homage to an all-time classic and an imaginative new way to celebrate the renowned series.”
It looks amazing and this seems like the perfect style of game for the Nintendo Switch. Sadly, a release date wasn’t announced.