How Metal Slug Tactics Brings Shoot ‘Em Up Vibes To Turn Based Strategy

How Metal Slug Tactics Brings Shoot 'Em Up Vibes To Turn Based Strategy

As a long-time fan of the Metal Slug series, I must say that Leikr Studio has truly outdone themselves with Metal Slug Tactics. The shift from the traditional run-and-gun gameplay to an isometric tactical RPG was initially met with skepticism, but the team’s dedication to preserving the DNA of a run-and-gun game in this new format is nothing short of commendable.


The game titled “Metal Slug Tactics” marks a significant shift for the series, moving away from its traditional run-and-gun action to the realm of isometric tactical role-playing games (RPGs). Developed by Leikr Studio, this strategic rendition of Metal Slug boasts an engaging roguelike structure that promotes exploration of various character builds, team compositions, and strategies, offering players a deeper gaming experience than what’s usually expected from the franchise.

In a conversation with Game Rant, Leikr Studio’s CEO Aurelién Loos shared insights into their strategy for Metal Slug Tactics, considering the series’ reputation for delivering high-octane shooter gameplay. Loos elaborated on the game’s movement system, which embodies the classic run-and-gun mechanics, and explained why they chose a tactical RPG format initially.

Metal Slug Tactics Is All About Movement

As a gaming enthusiast, I can’t help but draw a stark contrast between the fast-paced, action-packed world of classic shooters like Metal Slug and the methodical, tactically-minded RPGs. Yet, Leikr Studio managed to blend these seemingly disparate genres beautifully in their tactics game. Aurelién Loos, one of the team members, highlighted that the movement system was the bedrock upon which this unique fusion was built.

Working within this universe challenges us to think outside the box, as we didn’t simply develop a standard tactical RPG for Metal Slug Tactics. Instead, the focus is on movement – you must keep moving and make strategic moves each turn to dodge attacks or build up adrenaline. This adrenaline is crucial for executing powerful attacks and abilities. The advantage of this approach was that it allowed us to create something original, which is always exciting. However, the real motivation behind this innovation was our desire to blend the core elements of a run-and-gun game with a tactical game.

A key aspect of Metal Slug Tactics that mirrors the series’ fast-paced action is the enemy quantity; players frequently find themselves vastly outnumbered during each skirmish. Dealing with numerous weaker enemies makes each move crucial and intense as several adversaries are swiftly taken down using just a couple of tactical strategies. When paired with the movement system, Metal Slug Tactics has that authentic feel of being a true member of the Metal Slug series.

Why Metal Slug Tactics Isn’t A Shooter

How Metal Slug Tactics Brings Shoot 'Em Up Vibes To Turn Based Strategy

Transforming the fast-paced, action-packed gameplay of Metal Slug into a turn-based strategy game seems like an intriguing yet formidable task. This raises a curiosity: why did Leikr Studios opt for this route rather than continuing along the established path of the series? Aurelién Loos explains that their decision is rooted in their previous work on turn-based roguelike games, making a new approach to the series seem more prudent and less risky. Instead of developing another mainline Metal Slug title, they chose to present a fresh perspective on the series.

When contemplating the iconic game series, Metal Slug, given our deep-rooted affection for it – especially me for Metal Slug 2 – we pondered about how we could contribute something unique. Although the classic Metal Slug games remain entertaining and current, our team lacks expertise in run-and-gun genres. Rather than attempting to create the next Metal Slug, which would have been overly ambitious given our lack of experience, we proposed a concept that aligns better with our studio’s specialty – strategic and tactical gameplay.

In essence, creating a strategy game reminiscent of Metal Slug has led to a title with original concepts that may not have seen the light of day if the team had been working within a different franchise. Consequently, Metal Slug Tactics is both an authentic representation of the Metal Slug series and a standalone tactics game.

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2024-11-12 18:23