Remember the days of pumping quarters into arcade games machines, dodging bullets, and rescuing hostages with frantic button presses? If you do, then the name Metal Slug likely brings a smile to your face. And among the pantheon of classic run-and-gun games titles, Metal Slug X: Super Vehicle – 001 holds a special, slightly chaotic place in many retro gamers' hearts.
It wasn't a completely new game, but rather a souped-up, perfected version of Metal Slug 2: Super Vehicle-001 II. Released in 1999 for the Neo-Geo games MVS arcade system, MSX took everything great about its predecessor and polished it to a mirror sheen, fixing issues and adding just enough fresh content to make it the definitive way to experience that particular storyline arc.
What Makes Metal Slug X Special?
At its core, Metal Slug X: Super Vehicle – 001 is the same explosive, hand-drawn, pixel-art masterpiece as Metal Slug 2. You still join Marco, Tarma, Eri, or Fio to battle General Morden and his forces, eventually uncovering a much stranger, alien threat. The core gameplay loop remains: run, shoot, toss grenades, pilot iconic vehicles (like the titular SV-001 tank!), and rescue POWs for weapon upgrades and points.
But MSX isn't just a simple port. It's an enhanced version, often referred to as a "remix" or "director's cut." SNK went back to the drawing board to address criticisms of Metal Slug 2, primarily focusing on performance issues and injecting new surprises.
The Key Improvements Over Metal Slug 2
So, what did SNK tweak to elevate Metal Slug X beyond its predecessor? Several crucial changes made a big difference:
- Reduced Slowdown: This was perhaps the biggest complaint about Metal Slug 2. When the action got intense (and it always got intense), the game could chug. Metal Slug X significantly optimized the code, leading to a much smoother, more consistent framerate even when the screen was filled with enemies and explosions.
- New Weapons & Items: MSX introduced several new weapons and items that weren't in MS2, such as the Iron Lizard (a ground-based missile), the Enemy Chaser (homing missiles), and the Drop Shot (bouncing grenades). Existing weapons also saw tweaks, like the Heavy Machine Gun now being available as a two-handed version.
- Remixed Levels & Enemy Placement: While the level layouts are largely the same as MS2, the enemy types and their placement were often changed. This kept things fresh for players familiar with the original and often led to more challenging or surprising encounters.
- Visual & Audio Tweaks: Subtle palette swaps, new background details, and altered sound effects were sprinkled throughout the game, giving it a slightly different feel.
- Different Boss Attack Patterns: Some boss battles feature altered attack patterns, requiring players to adapt even if they knew the MS2 versions inside and out.
These changes, especially the reduction in slowdown, made Metal Slug X feel like the game Metal Slug 2 was meant to be.
Gameplay: Frantic, Funny, and Timeless
The core Metal Slug games formula is perfected in MSX. The controls are tight and responsive. The pixel art animation is some of the best ever seen in gaming – characters have hilarious death animations, enemies react uniquely to different weapons, and the vehicles are packed with intricate details.
Speaking of vehicles, the 'Slug' vehicles are a huge part of the fun. The standard Metal Slug (SV-001) tank is a classic, but MSX also features the Slug Flyer (jet), Slug Copter (helicopter), and even the comical Camel Slug. Each vehicle offers temporary invincibility and powerful firepower, changing the dynamic of the levels.
The humor is another defining trait. From the goofy enemy designs to the player characters' reactions (turning into a mummy or getting fat from too much food!), the game never takes itself too seriously, providing a lighthearted contrast to the intense action.
The Enduring Legacy of Metal Slug X
Metal Slug X proved incredibly popular in arcades and was later ported to various home consoles like the PlayStation and Sega Saturn (in Japan). Today, it's readily available on modern platforms through digital stores like GOG.com and Steam, often bundled in collections like the Metal Slug Anthology or individually. This accessibility means a new generation of players can discover its charms, and veterans can easily revisit a beloved classic.
It stands as a high point in the series, showcasing SNK's mastery of 2D pixel art and frantic arcade design. It's a game that's easy to pick up and play but challenging to master, offering immense replayability whether you're going for a high score or just blasting through with a friend in cooperative multiplayer games.
Playing Metal Slug X Today
Want to jump back into the action or experience it for the first time? Metal Slug X: Super Vehicle – 001 is available on several modern platforms:
- PC: Find it on Steam and GOG.com. These versions often include online multiplayer and controller support.
- Consoles: It's featured in the Metal Slug Anthology (available on PS4, Nintendo Switch, etc.) and sometimes released individually on digital stores.
These official releases offer the best way to play MSX with modern conveniences.
Conclusion
Metal Slug X: Super Vehicle – 001 isn't just an update; it's arguably the definitive version of one of the best games in a legendary series. It took the potential of Metal Slug 2, ironed out its kinks, and delivered an arcade experience that remains incredibly fun and visually stunning decades later. If you're a fan of retro run-and-gun games, or just appreciate incredible pixel art and explosive action, MSX is an absolute must-play. Grab a friend, stock up on virtual quarters, and prepare for glorious, chaotic fun!
FAQ
Q: Is Metal Slug X a sequel to Metal Slug 2? A: No, Metal Slug X is an enhanced remake or updated version of Metal Slug 2. It features the same story and levels but with significant gameplay improvements, reduced slowdown, and some remixed content.
Q: What does "Super Vehicle – 001" mean? A: "Super Vehicle – 001" is the official designation for the iconic Metal Slug tank, the first and most recognizable vehicle in the series.
Q: Is Metal Slug X difficult? A: Yes, like most arcade games of its era, Metal Slug X is known for its high difficulty, especially if you're aiming to complete it on a limited number of credits. However, modern ports often offer unlimited credits, making it more accessible.
Q: Where can I buy Metal Slug X today? A: You can purchase digital versions of Metal Slug X on platforms like Steam and GOG.com for PC, and it's also included in the Metal Slug Anthology available on various modern consoles.
