Metal Slug is a long running series that dates back to the Neo-Geo arcade machines. Few may know that Metal Slug XX is simply a re-mastered version of Metal Slug 7 on the DS. Now considering that game was released way back in ’08. The game really does hold up a lot of its grit, but does it stand up to the rest in the series? Does it add enough value to a gamer to warrant a purchase for a side scrolling shooter?

Simply put, yes it does. The game is fun to pick up and play if your bored at home, taking a cab ride or if your on the john and can’t find a newspaper to read but for some crazy reason you have a PSP in your bathroom! Before I go on let me state, this game has people getting shot and blood, not really intended for little ones. Also, it can get pretty darn hard on the higher difficulty levels. Start out on beginner unless you’re a veteran of the Metal Slug series than try normal. The game’s story mode has 7 levels. If you want to speed through the game it can be beaten in a matter of 3-4 hours, possibly more depending on difficulty and player skill. The real heart of the game lies in the ability to save all the POW’s and survive without dying which surprisingly takes a huge amount of skill to master. Mix that in with six (6) different playable characters you got yourself some fun. Granted, the characters don’t add much more but it’s nice to know that the effort was there.

The game adds a lot to prolong its lifespan. It adds a networked co-op mode where you and a buddy can team up online via wi-fi and fly through the story missions together. There is also a nifty Combat School, which takes you on various missions ranging from POW rescues to Target Elimination, which tests your aim and accuracy. It gives you a rating after every completed mission and you gain points to your overall rank. It’s a very cool time waster. With around 70 missions to keep you busy, if you enjoy the game you will be busy for quite a while if you’re trying to achieve that high score.

The presentation for the game is what you would expect from a Metal Slug game. The story is stretched a little thin but its really just about blowing stuff up. Sure the graphics are dated and the game primarily uses sprites, but that’s what a Metal Slug game is all about. It’s about the nostalgia of it. Except now in this era you can take it with you wherever you are and have great Metal Slug fun on the go.