Metal Slug Awakening Review
Introduction:
Metal Slug: Awakening, the latest addition to the iconic Metal Slug series, has officially launched. Developed with the blessing of SNK, this game stays true to the classic run-and-gun gameplay that made the franchise a beloved staple in arcade gaming. With modern enhancements and new gameplay mechanics, it aims to attract both longtime fans and newcomers. Let’s explore our comprehensive Metal Slug Awakening Review.
1. Gameplay: Metal Slug Awakening Review
Metal Slug: Awakening retains the franchise’s signature side-scrolling shooter experience. Players can take on the roles of a variety of characters in the game, including well-known names like Marco Rossi, Eri Kasamoto, Tarma Roving, and Fio Germi. Each character has its own set of skills and playstyles. As the game progresses, players must search for the four magical gems in order to defeat the powerful and evil Pharaoh.
2. Mobile-Friendly Controls:
The game’s controls have been adapted for mobile gameplay, ensuring ease of use. Players move using the left touch stick while separate buttons allow jumping, switching characters, and using special abilities. Players also have the choice to utilize the auto-target feature, so they wouldn’t have to aim manually on enemies. This is extremely useful, particularly for novices, but it lacks the flexibility of manual aiming. However, by simply dragging the fire button around, players can regain manual control at any time.
3. A Diverse Arsenal of Weapons:
There are still a variety of weapons in the game. From conventional weapons like machine guns and flamethrowers to even more outlandish contraptions like ice and boxing glove guns, the weaponry selection adds a layer of unpredictability and fun to the intense battles.
4. The Return of Iconic Vehicles:
A hallmark of the Metal Slug series is its dynamic vehicle gameplay, and Awakening delivers on this front. Metal Slug: Awakening faithfully continues this with a variety of vehicles, including tanks, jetpacks, planes, mechs, or even animals like camels, that offer different gameplay mechanics and strategies. Not only do these vehicles give players a way to get through the levels, but they also make powerful tools for dealing with enemies and other obstacles.
5. Visuals and Performance: Metal Slug Awakening Review
One of the most notable upgrades in Metal Slug: Awakening is its transition to 3D graphics while maintaining the classic side-scrolling perspective. This modernized visual style revitalizes the franchise’s aesthetic without compromising its nostalgic charm.
The character models retain their chibi-style proportions during gameplay, but menus and cutscenes feature highly detailed 3D renderings. While these visuals are stunning, it would have been nice to see them used more during actual gameplay. Unfortunately, the game suffers from occasional frame drops, even on powerful devices like the Snapdragon 888. Additionally, the lack of FPS limit settings makes optimization a concern that developers should address post-release.
6. Customization and Upgrades:
Players can start missions by selecting a roster of three characters, with their own customizable and upgradable weapons and gear. Players have the ability to swap and tag between these heroes, strategically adapting to different situations and enemy types. This dynamic system adds depth to the gameplay and encourages experimentation. The levels are well-designed and just in line with what I would expect from a Metal Slug game. Featuring a mix of ordinary enemies and challenging bosses, each requiring a unique approach to defeat.
7. Multiple Game Modes: Metal Slug Awakening Review
Players can engage in the main story, complete with an original story, while also diving into various side game modes like:
Flashback Mode & Arcade Carnival: Classic Metal Slug style missions.
Hot Pursuit Mode: A roguelite-inspired mode with randomized upgrades.
PvP Arena: Engage in competitive battles against other players.
Co-op Multiplayer: Team up with friends for a more cooperative experience, staying true to the classic Metal Slug formula.
8. The Free-to-Play Challenge:
Since Metal Slug: Awakening has adopted a free-to-play model, it comes at a literal cost. The incorporation of gacha mechanics, an energy/stamina system to limit play, and in-game purchases for weapons, gear, and cosmetics might be a double-edged sword for players. Although this model allows for greater accessibility, it may also have an effect on the overall gaming experience because character and weapon power now play a significant role in progression, which necessitates either spending money or grinding.
9. Final Thoughts:
I can confidently say that Metal Slug: Awakening manages to capture the essence of what makes this franchise special while infusing it with a twist that reflects the dynamics of the mobile gaming scene. It is a title that embraces the current state of mobile gaming while paying homage to the legacy of the series. It has fun run-and-gun gameplay, evolved graphics, a mix of nostalgic elements, and a variety of game modes.