Metal Slug 3

This is a port of the classic run-and-gun arcade shooter, originally released in 2003 for PS2 and Xbox. You engage in relentless, side-scrolling combat, mastering intense firepower and movement to survive overwhelming enemy waves. This console version uniquely features two bonus scenarios upon completion: "Storming the UFO Mothership," where you play as an enemy soldier, and "Fat Island," a competitive eating mode for two players. Expect demanding, fast-paced arcade action.

This title is a port of a classic run-and-gun arcade experience, originally released for the Neo Geo platform. This specific version arrived on the PlayStation 2 in Japan and Europe, and on the Xbox in North America in 2003. As a port, it aims to deliver the core, high-octane action that defined the original arcade cabinet experience to home console owners. The game belongs firmly in the Shooter and Arcade genres, emphasizing fast reflexes, constant movement, and intense firepower against overwhelming odds.

Core Gameplay and Atmosphere

The atmosphere is defined by relentless, side-scrolling combat where players navigate chaotic battlefields filled with enemy soldiers, vehicles, and massive boss encounters. The core mechanic revolves around precise shooting, jumping, and utilizing a variety of powerful, screen-clearing weaponry. Players must master movement to avoid enemy fire while maximizing damage output.

A notable feature of this port is the inclusion of exclusive bonus content not found in the original arcade release. Upon completion of the main campaign, players unlock two distinct mini-scenarios designed to extend the replayability of the console version.

What extra content is included in this console version?

Storming the UFO Mothership: This scenario flips the script, placing the player in control of one of three enemy soldier types—a "Normal" soldier, a "Bazooka" soldier, or a "Shield" soldier—as they advance through the final level area. Players are supported by allied Morden soldiers and can call upon Sgt. Allen O’Neill for assistance in clearing the screen.
Fat Island: This is a dedicated two-player competitive mode where the objective shifts entirely to consumption, challenging participants to see who can eat the most food within the stage.

Game Type Context: Console Port Value

Being a port means this version preserves the authentic, challenging design philosophy of its arcade predecessor. For players interested in this release, the value proposition lies in experiencing a highly regarded entry in the run-and-gun genre on established home consoles (PlayStation 2 and Xbox) from 2003, complete with the added bonus missions.

What kind of action can a player expect from this classic port?

Players should anticipate a demanding shooter experience characterized by vibrant pixel art and constant, chaotic enemy waves. Success relies on mastering weapon switching and utilizing environmental elements while surviving intense bullet patterns typical of the genre. This specific port iteration does not feature any downloadable content (DLC) or expansions, nor does it include remakes or remasters of the original 2003 release content.

Core Gameplay and Atmosphere

What extra content is included in this console version?

Storming the UFO Mothership: This scenario flips the script, placing the player in control of one of three enemy soldier types—a "Normal" soldier, a "Bazooka" soldier, or a "Shield" soldier—as they advance through the final level area. Players are supported by allied Morden soldiers and can call upon Sgt. Allen O’Neill for assistance in clearing the screen.

Fat Island: This is a dedicated two-player competitive mode where the objective shifts entirely to consumption, challenging participants to see who can eat the most food within the stage.

Game Type Context: Console Port Value

What kind of action can a player expect from this classic port?