The legendary Metal Slug series, which debuted on NeoGeo in 1996, is set to return this year thanks to DotEmu and Leikir Studio from France, who have been developing the game for at least four years. A playable demo was released during the Summer Game Fest early in June, offering players a chance to experience the first mission and its gameplay mechanics. Today, rather than focusing on the game’s systems, we are looking back into the past to recall the genesis of this title, which remains one of the most meticulously crafted run & gun games in history. To enhance impact, interviews with some original development team veterans were conducted to reflect on their experiences. As a result, anecdotes are shared, and glimpses of the initial hand-drawn artworks are revealed.
A tribute video showcases that project managers from Leikir Studio visited Osaka to meet with SNK, specifically discussing with Laurent Vernézy, Development Manager in SNK’s retro department. The collaboration between these two companies has been ongoing for several years, and this video aims to pay vibrant homage to the legacy left by NeoGeo during its time, which has seen a beautiful resurgence in recent years. This content will be appreciated by fans of this console that were nurtured by it during their childhood.
For those eager to dive into the exciting world of Metal Slug beyond just nostalgia, Sophie Laurent’s latest piece on “Metal Slug Awakening: Game Now Available, Trailer Blends Live-Action and CGI” is a must-read. Published on August 24th, this article delves into the global release of the long-awaited 2.5D remake, now available on mobile devices (excluding France). With new characters, innovative gameplay mechanics, and an impressive launch trailer blending live-action with CGI, fans will find plenty to get excited about. Check out the full details at [Read the article].
