Metal Slug Preview

E3 2006 First Look Preview

Inside SNK’s booth at this year’s Electronic Entertainment Expo, attendees had the pleasure of getting some hands-on game time with the latest Metal Slug to hit the GBA. This is another port, and it goes all the way back to the game’s originals: Metal Slug 1. Titled “Super Vehicle,” this edition is going to be released in celebration of the series’ 10-year anniversary.

Looking good with as many colors on screen as the GBA can handle (not to mention a plethora of character animations), Metal Slug is the most challenging series in the shooter/action genre. The goal, as you may or may not know, is to rescue hostages in a hostile situation. You rescue hostages just by standing next to them. Those who are rescued will feel grateful and reward you with various items – primarily better weapons and firepower that will make your job of destroying the enemy a whole lot easier.

Weapons come in a variety of shapes and sizes, with varying degrees of hard-hitting blasts. Long streams of bullets will pummel the enemy into the ground, while a short, quick thrust could put him six feet under at close range.

The original Metal Slug (not to be confused with Metal Gear) robotic vehicle will be playable, just as it was ten years ago when the series made its debut. The over-the-top characters are also being included, with weird facial expressions and semi-comical death animations.

With non-stop action and an undeniable history of top-notch gameplay, Metal Slug will be one of the highlights for Game Boy Advance players this fall. Nintendo DS players might want to pick it up as well, as that system plays GBA games with its gorgeous top screen.

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