Metal Slug 2

About Metal Slug 2

Metal Slug 2 is a 2D run-and-gun action shooter from DotEmu and SNK Playmore, released in 1998. It follows the Peregrine Falcon squad as they battle General Morden and his Martian allies. New characters Eri and Fiolina join the fight, adding variety to the team. The game leans into fast-paced shooting, side-scrolling levels, and chaotic set pieces. With co-op multiplayer and single-player modes, it’s a blast for fans of arcade-style shooters. Available on PlayStation, PC, mobile, and retro consoles, it’s a portable pick for action junkies. The sequel improves on the first game’s formula with tighter controls and more variety in weapons and stages.

Gameplay

You control one of four characters, sprinting through levels while shooting enemies, dodging attacks, and using power-ups like machine guns and grenades. The camera scrolls horizontally, but vertical movement is key, jumping over obstacles and enemies is routine. Multiplayer co-op lets two players team up, though the action can get chaotic when both fire wildly. Each stage has distinct themes, from jungle ruins to alien-infested cities. Weapons vary: pistols, shotguns, and even a rocket launcher appear as you progress. The combat is aggressive and responsive, rewarding quick reflexes. Boss fights mix pattern-based dodging and sustained fire. Levels often end with explosive set pieces, like riding a tank or blowing up a dam.

What Players Think

Metal Slug 2 holds an 81.5/100 on IGDB (175 ratings), with 83% of players completing the story and 68% finishing all objectives. Average playtime is 7 hours, but 21% spend over 10. Community moods are 40% fun, 30% nostalgic, and 15% surprised. Reviewers note it’s “a blast for retro fans” and “still holds up after 25 years.” Achievement completion rates are high, 89% earn 90% of trophies. Critics praise the controls and co-op, though some say the difficulty spikes late in the game. The mobile port draws complaints about touch controls, but the PC version is widely praised for its responsiveness.

PlayPile's Take

Metal Slug 2 is worth playing if you crave fast, messy action with a co-op option. It’s a short but punchy experience, best for those who enjoy arcade-style shooters or want to revisit a classic. With a 7-hour average playthrough and 100% completion possible in under 20, it’s not a long-term investment but a solid pick for its genre. At $15, it’s a low-risk buy. The 33 achievements add minor replay value, but the core appeal is the chaotic fun of shooting hordes of enemies. Not a masterwork, but it’s exactly what it promises to be.

Storyline

General Donald Morden, the antagonist from the first game is back once more with his army, bent on taking over the world. It is up to the Peregrine Falcon squad, who are now joined by two new characters: Eri Kasamoto and Fiolina Germi of the Sparrows Intelligence Unit, to save the day. As the levels unfold, it turns out that Morden has allied with Martians to help facilitate his plans. Eventually the tables are turned when Morden comes under attack and is betrayed by his Martian allies. An ad-hoc alliance is formed between the Peregrine Falcon squad and General Morden's army to combat the greater alien threat.