PS2 port of the original arcade Metal Slug, founder of the franchise. The frantic run-and-gun, prisoners to rescue and vehicles to pilot are all present. A historical franchise entry point for SNK, graphically dated but fundamental for understanding the series' evolution.
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Category
Action2 players12+
Co-op
Description
A Japanese SNK Playmore edition released in 2006 by Plus Vita, a PS2 console port of the original Metal Slug (1996). Simple emulation of Nazca's Neo-Geo run-and-gun arcade that launched the franchise. Marco and Tarma join Operation Peregrine Falcon against General Morden's army. A foundational stone of the genre.
Metal Slug review
4/5
Art direction
★★★★★
"Striking"
4/5
Music
★★★★★
"Excellent"
1/5
Story
★★★★★
"Anecdotal"
Gameplay
"Solid"
Fun
"From the very first seconds"
A run-and-gun of insane density, where you blast hordes of enemies, free prisoners and hop aboard lunatic vehicles, all in an explosion of irresistible pixel art. The frantic pace and the ever-present humour deliver an immediate pleasure, multiplied with two players. Snappy, generous and packed with detail, a timeless classic of arcade action.
Complete: box, manual and disc/cart very clean. Lightly handled.
Q1 damagedQ6 completeQ10 new
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Collector interest
This Japanese PS2 release of Metal Slug by SNK Playmore offers a faithful console port of the Neo Geo arcade original, long without a Western physical equivalent on the platform. The domestic print run was modest and the SNK run-and-gun retains an intact cult aura among 2D action fans. The high loose price reflects genuine fan demand, supported by the Japanese sleeve and case unique to this territorial edition.
Is Metal Slug still worth playing in 2026?
A run and gun from SNK, Metal Slug brings to the console the first episode of the cult series, where you cross horizontal scrolling levels shooting at hordes of enemies, freeing prisoners and piloting the famous SV-001 tank, in a riot of pixelated animation and humour. The timeless quality of the action, the richness of the hand drawn animation and the arcade spirit appeal to fans of the genre and arcade nostalgics. The high difficulty stays faithful to the original spirit. For a fan of run and gun or an arcade nostalgic, the title keeps a perfectly preserved intensity and charm.
