It’s already been a decade since the first Metal Slug arcade game. I remember the time I used to play it after classes and felt proud of finishing the game with a single token. That was quite an accomplishment for me.

Fast forward to the present, I finally got hold Metal Slug 7 for the DS. For this edition, players get three new rides. There’s the Slug Gigant, which is a robot that features a powerful wave cannon. Then there’s the Slug Gunner, which is a mobile suit that players can easily control and has great fire power. Last but definitely not the least is the Slug Truck. This might be the most powerful vehicle in the history of Metal Slug. The Slug Truck lets players place additional cannons.

Another new feature introduced to the franchise is the Rush Blaster System. This lets the player string together attacks to bring up the Rush Blaster gauge up. The gauge has 4 stages, which are double, quadruple, times eight and times sixteen. The player’s score will be multiplied according to the Rush Blaster gauge.

One thing I don’t like about Metal Slug 7 is that its graphics is not that impressive. When compared to the Metal Slug in other portable consoles, the DS version is far less superior. Also, there’s no Wi-Fi connectivity for coop play.

Other than that, Metal Slug 7 is a good game. Its gameplay should satisfy hardcore gamers’ desire for frantic 2D action. If you played any Metal Slug game before then you should get this game as well. This is not for the faint hearted though. Those new to the Metal Slug series might be frustrated with the level of difficulty of Metal Slug 7.