Game Reviews

Metal Slug 3: The Classic Run and Gun

14 Feb 2024 20 min read

Updated On: February 14, 2024 by What is Esports? Team

Do you ever find yourself pining for the unadulterated excitement of yesteryear’s arcade classics amidst the high-definition, cinematic experiences of contemporary gaming? It’s a longing we’ve become rather familiar with ourselves.

In response, we’ve rummaged through the annals of gaming history to resurrect one such treasure that captured hearts and imaginations alike. Metal Slug 3, crafted by the venerable SNK and launched at the dawn of the millennium in 2000, epitomises the enduring charm of ‘run and gun’ adventures.

Come along as we journey down memory lane; this guide is your invitation to rekindle a fondness for those halcyon days of retro gaming.

Key Takeaways

Metal Slug 3 was first released in the year 2000 by SNK on the Neo – Geo platform, becoming an iconic title in the run and gun genre.
The game features four main characters – Marco, Tarma, Eri, and Fio – each with unique abilities, contributing to the depth of gameplay as players fight through diverse environments filled with a variety of enemies and challenging bosses.
Players can choose from multiple routes within stages and utilise different forms and vehicles called “Slugs”, adding to the replay value and strategic element of the game.
Over time, Metal Slug 3 has been re – released on several consoles including PlayStation 2, Xbox, PC (Steam), Nintendo Switch, iOS, and Android platforms broadening access for new generations of gamers.
The combination of nostalgia – inducing arcade action and engaging gameplay mechanics have led to critical acclaim from both fans and critics alike ensuring Metal Slug 3’s lasting popularity.

Overview of Metal Slug 3

Stepping into the electrifying realm of Metal Slug 3 is akin to reviving the golden era of arcade gaming. Crafted with meticulous care by SNK, and unleashed on the Neo-Geo platform in the year 2000, this game has carved a niche in the affections of those who thrive on action-packed entertainment.

Its frantic gameplay and exuberant style have become legendary; setting it apart as a remarkable chapter not just within its own series but across the entire pantheon of side-scrolling shooters.

Metal Slug 3 whisks players off on an adventure that’s far more than your average bullet-fest. It tempts you with its seemingly endless array of weaponry and an eclectic fleet of slugs – from robust tanks to nimble submarines – ensuring that no two jaunts through its chaotic battlefields ever feel quite identical.

Owing to its resounding success, various incarnations are now available across multiple consoles, even offering unblocked online play for contemporary enthusiasts keen to experience what was once confined to clinking coins and flashing screens in video arcades worldwide.

The charm lies not only in its pulse-pounding action but also in how every element—from sprites bursting with character to landscapes rich with detail—conjures up nostalgia for a time when simple thrills met imaginative craftsmanship.

Metal Slug 3 doesn’t just transport you back; it’s a timeless invitation to anyone who revels in spirited mayhem wrapped up with creative flair—a true testament to an iconic epoch where joysticks were jostled beneath neon lights across Blighty and beyond.

Story and Gameplay

Metal Slug 3 features a captivating plot with memorable characters, combined with its classic run and gun gameplay. The game offers branching routes, unique forms and slugs, creating an engaging experience for players.

Plot and Characters

The plot of Metal Slug 3 revolves around a group of elite soldiers fighting against an alien threat, set across various distinctive environments. Players control one of four characters: Marco Rossi, Tarma Roving, Eri Kasamoto, and Fio Germi.

Each character has their unique abilities and traits that can impact gameplay. The game also features a variety of enemies and bosses, each with their distinct attack patterns and weaknesses to discover.

Players will encounter different forms and slugs throughout the game, providing new strategies for defeating enemies. The diversity in characters, weapons, and foes adds depth to the run and gun experience while keeping players engaged as they navigate through the action-packed levels.

Run and Gun Gameplay

Metal Slug 3 is renowned for its classic run and gun gameplay, offering fast-paced action and intense shooting mechanics. Players control characters moving from left to right, taking down enemies with a wide range of weapons while dodging incoming fire.

The game’s iconic side-scrolling levels provide an immersive experience as players navigate through various environments, encountering different challenges and obstacles along the way.

With its simple yet addictive gameplay, Metal Slug 3 keeps players engaged with its non-stop action and thrilling combat scenarios.

The run and gun gameplay in Metal Slug 3 is easy to pick up for newcomers but offers enough depth to keep experienced gamers entertained. This makes it a timeless classic that continues to attract fans of the genre decades after its original release.

The combination of responsive controls, diverse weaponry, and dynamic level design ensures that every playthrough delivers high-octane excitement and adrenaline-pumping thrills.

Branching Routes

In Metal Slug 3, players encounter branching routes throughout the game. These routes provide a dynamic gameplay experience, allowing for different paths and challenges in each playthrough.

As a result, players can explore alternative levels and face varied enemies depending on the route chosen. This adds replay value to the game, encouraging multiple playthroughs to discover all possible routes and experiences.

The branching routes in Metal Slug 3 also contribute to the game’s depth and complexity. Players must strategise and adapt their approach based on the route they take, making each playthrough unique.

Forms and Slugs

Transformative Abilities: The game features power-ups that allow players to transform into different forms, such as a mummy or a zombie. Each form comes with its own set of strengths and weaknesses, offering diverse strategies for players to experiment with.
Specialised Slugs: In addition to character transformations, Metal Slug 3 introduces specialised vehicles known as “Slugs.” These include powerful tanks, jets, and submarines, each providing distinct combat capabilities and enhancing the overall gameplay experience.
Strategic Advantages: Utilising these diverse forms and slugs strategically can significantly impact a player’s success in various stages, adding an element of tactical decision-making to the intense run and gun battles.
Enhancing Gameplay Variety: The inclusion of forms and slugs adds depth and variety to the gameplay, allowing players to adapt their playstyle based on the specific challenges they encounter throughout the game.
Dynamic Experience: By integrating forms and slugs into the run and gun action, Metal Slug 3 delivers a dynamic gaming experience that keeps players engaged and excited as they navigate through its challenging levels.

Stages and Bosses

Start with a fight against hordes of enemies on a beachhead invaded by the enemy army.
Navigate through a dense forest whilst combating monstrous mutated creatures and weaving through obstacles.
Enter a spooky underground cavern filled with swarms of living dead and other haunting terrors.
Engage in intense battles across the ocean as you fend off enemy submarines and aerial threats.
Explore snowy landscapes and frozen caves whilst facing off against resilient alien forces.
Traverse underwater to battle sea creatures and mechanical monstrosities in an aquatic battleground.
Confront the epic final boss in a climactic showdown that will test your skills to the limit.

Re-releases and Receptions

Metal Slug 3 has been re-released on various consoles over the years, including PlayStation and Xbox. The game received positive receptions from both fans and critics, praising its addictive gameplay and nostalgic charm.

Various Console Versions

Metal Slug 3 has been released on various consoles, allowing players to enjoy the classic run and gun gameplay across different platforms. Here are the various console versions of Metal Slug 3:

Neo Geo: The original platform for which the game was developed and remains iconic for its arcade experience.
PlayStation 2: Released as part of the Metal Slug Anthology, allowing players to relive the intense action on their PlayStation consoles.
Xbox: Available for Xbox users, ensuring a wider audience could experience the thrill of Metal Slug 3.
PC: The game is also available for download on PC platforms, providing accessibility to a larger gaming community.
iOS and Android: A mobile version of Metal Slug 3 is available for those who enjoy gaming on their smartphones or tablets, making it convenient to play on the go.
Nintendo Switch: The game has also been ported to the popular Nintendo Switch, offering another way to enjoy this classic run and gun title.

Commercial Performance

As we’ve seen, Metal Slug 3 made its way to various consoles, preserving the heart-pounding action of the original arcade classic. Its commercial success is a testament to its enduring appeal among fans of the run and gun genre. We’ve compiled a table to give you a snapshot of how well Metal Slug 3 performed in the market.

Platform	Release Date	Sales Figures	Notable Achievements
Neo-Geo	2000	N/A	Original release, cult arcade status
PlayStation 2	2003	N/A	Expanded home audience
Xbox	2004	N/A	Introduced Xbox Live features
PC (Steam)	2014	N/A	Accessible to modern gamers
Mobile	Varies	N/A	Playable on-the-go with mod apk version

Exact sales figures are hard to come by, but the game’s frequent re-releases across multiple platforms highlight its popularity. Each version sought to capture the spirit of the arcade original, bringing this classic to new audiences and ensuring its place in gaming history.

Reception from Fans and Critics

Metal Slug 3 received widespread acclaim from both fans and critics alike. The game was praised for its captivating run and gun gameplay, diverse characters, and epic boss battles.

Fans of the series relished in the nostalgic experience while newcomers appreciated its timeless appeal. Critics lauded the game’s solid port and attention to preserving the essence of the arcade original.

Metal Slug 3 also garnered praise for its commercial success across various console versions, cementing its status as a beloved classic in the action shooting genre.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

To sum up, Metal Slug 3 captivates with its detailed gameplay and diverse characters. The game’s branching routes and multiple forms keep players engaged throughout the action-packed adventure.

With its re-releases on various consoles, Metal Slug 3 continues to win over both new and seasoned fans of the run and gun genre. Its legacy as a beloved classic is cemented by delivering intense action and nostalgic gameplay that resonates even today.

FAQs

1. What kind of game is Metal Slug 3?

Metal Slug 3 is a classic run and gun video game that features action-packed shooting on an arcade platform.

2. Can I play Metal Slug 3 on modern consoles?

Yes, although originally released for the NeoGeo console, you can now find Metal Slug 3 as an unblocked game for various platforms.

3. Is Metal Slug 3 similar to other games like Contra?

Indeed, if you love the fast-paced action in Contra, you’ll enjoy the thrilling arcade cabinet style shooting adventure in Metal Slug 3.

4. Does Metal Slug 3 come with updated graphics?

While retaining its vintage charm, some versions of this video game have enhanced D graphics to appeal to both new players and retro enthusiasts alike.