Metal Slug Tactics: A Unique Take on Turn-Based Tactics

Metal Slug Tactics has finally arrived after more than three years since its initial reveal. This bold but sometimes confusing take on the tactics genre brings some notable strengths along with a few hindrances that may impact your overall enjoyment of the game.

Exploring the Gameplay Dynamics

For fans of turn-based tactics games who may not be familiar with the Metal Slug series, Metal Slug Tactics does offer something engaging, especially for genre enthusiasts. Structured as a roguelike, the game allows you and up to two fellow characters from the Peregrine Falcons to embark on various missions on isometric grids, gradually gaining control over different map areas.

The game features a wide array of enemies, challenging bosses, and creative environmental designs. Leikir Studio has introduced innovative twists to the tactics genre, enhancing the moment-to-moment gameplay experience.

Diving Into the Gameplay Mechanics

Each turn in the game allows you to move and take action, ranging from standard gunshots to using special weapons with limited ammo per run. Adrenaline Abilities acquired between missions and through character leveling provide supportive or situational damage abilities with impactful effects when strategically used.

Utilizing weapons follows the expected mechanics of firing at enemies within your line of sight on the grid. Moving also grants armor, encouraging an aggressive playstyle that aligns with the series’ run-and-gun essence, offering a dynamic approach to combat compared to traditional turn-based tactics games.

Sync Shots, a unique mechanic in Metal Slug Tactics, allow for coordinated attacks where one character can follow up with an attack when another initiates one on a shared target. This strategic element prompts players to plan ahead and position characters strategically to capitalize on these dual attacks.

Challenges and Frustrations

Despite its innovative mechanics, Metal Slug Tactics introduces some peculiar features and gameplay designs that hinder the player experience. One notable drawback is the restriction that prevents you from moving after taking an action, leading to frustrating situations where strategic flexibility is limited.

The initial hours of the game can be grueling, with challenging fights that may feel insurmountable due to limited character options and abilities. Navigating through repetitive missions to gather resources can be a tedious process, especially when underpowered, adding to the overall sluggish pace of progress.

Additionally, the game starts off on the wrong foot with a convoluted tutorial and small text/UI elements that pose readability issues, particularly in handheld mode. These factors can contribute to a less-than-ideal initial gameplay experience.

Final Thoughts

Despite its initial hurdles, Metal Slug Tactics presents a distinct and engaging take on the turn-based tactics genre. With impressive animations, an exceptional soundtrack, and well-crafted gameplay innovations, the game has the potential to shine brightly for tactics enthusiasts. However, overcoming its shortcomings and adapting to its unique gameplay quirks may require some dedication and patience. Metal Slug Tactics offers a fresh perspective for those seeking a new tactical challenge, albeit with some rough edges that may need smoothing out.