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Metal Slug

Metal Slug is a Japanese run-and-gun video game franchise that began with the 1996 arcade game of the same name.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Metal Slug is a Japanese run-and-gun video game franchise that began with the 1996 arcade game of the same name. It was created by Nazca Corporation and later continued by SNK following Nazca's merger into SNK in 1996. The series is known for its 2D side-scrolling action, detailed pixel art, and military sci-fi setting centered on the Peregrine Falcon Squad.

History

The Metal Slug series originated at Nazca Corporation, with the first game released in 1996 on Neo Geo arcade hardware. After the first game was completed, Nazca merged with SNK, which continued the franchise.

Gameplay and style

The series is a side-scrolling run-and-gun action franchise built around shooting, platforming, and fast-paced stage progression. It is widely associated with detailed 2D sprite graphics and a stylized comedic tone.

Setting and characters

The games are set in a military science-fiction world and commonly follow the Peregrine Falcon Squad. The squad fights a range of threats including rebel armies, aliens, zombies, and other forces.

Release and platforms

The series started on Neo Geo arcade and home systems, then expanded to many other platforms through ports and later releases. These included several consoles and handheld or mobile platforms.

Key facts

  • The series began with the 1996 arcade game Metal Slug, developed by Nazca Corporation and released by SNK.
  • Metal Slug is a 2D run-and-gun series originally associated with Neo Geo arcade and home hardware.
  • The games focus on the Peregrine Falcon Squad, who battle rebel forces and other enemies such as aliens and zombies.
  • The franchise is known for its detailed pixel art and high-action side-scrolling gameplay.
  • After the first game, the series continued under SNK following Nazca’s merger into SNK in 1996.
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Canadian context

The series has been released on several home and handheld platforms that were sold in Canada, and it remains part of broader retro and arcade game culture among Canadian players.

Frequently asked questions

What is Metal Slug?
Metal Slug is a Japanese run-and-gun video game series that began in 1996 on Neo Geo arcade hardware.
Who created Metal Slug?
Nazca Corporation created the first game, and SNK later continued the franchise after Nazca merged with SNK in 1996.
What kind of game is Metal Slug?
It is a 2D run-and-gun action series with side-scrolling stages and shooting-focused gameplay.
What is the first Metal Slug game?
The first game is Metal Slug, released in 1996.
Who are the main protagonists?
The games commonly follow the Peregrine Falcon Squad, a small military unit.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metal_Slug
    Supports: Series origin, developer history, genre, original hardware, and premise
  2. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metal_Slug_(1996_video_game)
    Supports: First game release year, original developer, publisher, and main characters
  3. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Metal_Slug_video_games
    Supports: Series platform availability and later ports