A beautifully animated, intricately drawn 2D platform shooter, Metal Slug puts players in control of either Marco Rossi or Tarma Roving, a pair of soldiers hell bent on rescuing POWs and blasting the hell out of General Morden and his powerful army, which is comprised of evil soldiers, mechanical monsters, combat vehicles, giant bosses, and other potential targets. Rescued hostages relinquish bonus items

or weaponry, such as a heavy machine gun, a flame shot or a rocket launcher. High-powered mini-tanks, which are equipped with cannons and rapid-fire shots, are frequently air-dropped in strategic locations, bolstering players' enemy-killing capabilities. In addition to dazzlingly detailed graphics, simple controls and constantly intense shooting action, the game is filled with humorous touches, such as enemies laughing when you die or fleeing in terror when fearing for their lives. Metal Slug could be a bit longer, but it is plenty difficult, posing serious challenges for even the most savvy of trigger-happy arcade veterans. The two-player simultaneous mode is recommended.