- Metal Slug Ultimate Collection games include the main run from Metal Slug 1 through 7.
- Ten titles are planned, including Metal Slug Advance and a rare location test version.
- M2 emulation adds Quick Save, Quick Load, Rewind, display settings, and sound options.
- Modern platforms include PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and Steam listings.
- Release timing is set for 2027, while the official price remains listed as TBD.
Metal Slug Ultimate Collection games lineup
Metal Slug Ultimate Collection games bring together the central arcade and handheld history of the run-and-gun series in one package. The official lineup covers Metal Slug, Metal Slug 2, Metal Slug X, Metal Slug 3, Metal Slug 4, Metal Slug 5, Metal Slug Advance, Metal Slug 6, Metal Slug 7, and a rare location test version of the original Metal Slug.
The collection is designed as a historical archive as much as a playable compilation. Instead of focusing on one entry, it presents the franchise’s development across several eras: the original 1996–1999 period, the 2000–2003 evolution, and the 2004–2008 expansion.
| Era | Included games | Historical focus |
|---|---|---|
| 1996–1999 | Metal Slug, Metal Slug 2, Metal Slug X | The beginning of the series |
| 2000–2003 | Metal Slug 3, Metal Slug 4, Metal Slug 5 | Arcade evolution |
| 2004–2008 | Metal Slug Advance, Metal Slug 6, Metal Slug 7 | Expansion into later releases |
| Archive material | Original Metal Slug location test version | Rare early version preserved for comparison |
Start with the original Metal Slug, then move through release order. This makes the visual, mechanical, and historical changes easier to recognize.
Classic Foundation
Metal Slug establishes the core run-and-gun identity and serves as the natural entry point for the collection.
Early Evolution
Metal Slug 2 and Metal Slug X represent the early refinement of the series and its arcade legacy.
Series Expansion
Metal Slug 3, 4, and 5 continue the main numbered lineage across the 2000–2003 period.
Later History
Metal Slug Advance, 6, and 7 show how the franchise expanded beyond its earliest arcade run.
The rare location test version is especially useful for players interested in preservation and development history. It is not simply another numbered sequel. Its value comes from showing an early form of the original game before the final arcade release.
For a title-by-title reference, visit the official Metal Slug Ultimate Collection lineup and features page.
How to explore the collection in release order
A release-order approach gives the collection a clear structure. It also prevents the archive material from distracting from the main series. Begin with the original game, continue through the numbered titles, and then use Metal Slug Advance and the location test version as historical comparisons.
Begin with Metal Slug
Use the original Metal Slug to learn the basic rhythm of movement, shooting, jumping, vehicle use, and stage progression. Treat it as the foundation for every later comparison.
Continue through the early entries
Play Metal Slug 2 and Metal Slug X next. Comparing these games directly helps you identify how the early formula developed while retaining its recognizable arcade structure.
Study the middle trilogy
Move to Metal Slug 3, Metal Slug 4, and Metal Slug 5. Focus on how stage design, enemy encounters, and the overall presentation change across this part of the lineup.
Finish the later releases
Explore Metal Slug Advance, Metal Slug 6, and Metal Slug 7 after the earlier games. This creates a stronger sense of how the franchise expanded over time.
Review the location test version
Return to the rare location test version of the original Metal Slug last. Compare it with the finished game rather than treating it as the primary starting point.
| Recommended order | Title | Why play it here |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Metal Slug | Establishes the core series identity |
| 2 | Metal Slug 2 | Continues the early arcade progression |
| 3 | Metal Slug X | Provides another early-series reference point |
| 4 | Metal Slug 3 | Begins the middle-era group |
| 5 | Metal Slug 4 | Continues the numbered sequence |
| 6 | Metal Slug 5 | Completes the 2000–2003 group |
| 7 | Metal Slug Advance | Adds a later handheld entry |
| 8 | Metal Slug 6 | Moves into the later expansion period |
| 9 | Metal Slug 7 | Completes the numbered lineup |
| 10 | Location test version | Ends with preservation-focused comparison |
The location test version is archival material. Its purpose is comparison and preservation, so it should not replace the finished original when following the main series.
This route also works well for first-time players because it separates the collection into manageable groups. Rather than viewing ten titles as one long checklist, use the three historical eras as natural milestones.
Features, emulation, and modern conveniences
The collection’s technical foundation comes from M2, a developer known for classic-game ports and re-releases. The official feature list emphasizes high-quality emulation intended to preserve the character of the original releases while adding practical options for modern play.
These features matter because arcade games often demand repeated attempts. Quick Save and Quick Load can make short practice sessions more convenient, while Rewind allows players to review difficult moments without restarting an entire run.
| Feature | What it supports | Best use |
|---|---|---|
| Quick Save | Preserves progress at a selected point | Short practice sessions |
| Quick Load | Returns to a saved position | Repeating difficult sections |
| Rewind | Moves back through recent gameplay | Reviewing mistakes |
| Display settings | Adjusts the visual presentation | Personalizing screen output |
| Sound settings | Adjusts audio presentation | Matching player preference |
| Emulation work by M2 | Reproduces classic behavior with care | Preserving the original feel |
Available features, modes, and functionality may vary by title. That distinction is important when comparing the numbered games, Metal Slug Advance, and the location test version. A feature listed for the collection should not automatically be assumed to work identically in every included title.
M2’s role goes beyond basic access. The collection is built around reproducing classic behavior while offering settings that make the games more practical on modern hardware.
A sensible practice routine is to use the convenience features as learning tools rather than shortcuts. Save before a demanding sequence, attempt the section normally, and use Rewind to identify the moment that caused the failure. This keeps the arcade challenge intact while reducing unnecessary repetition.
Practice Sessions
Use Quick Save and Quick Load to isolate a stage section or encounter that needs repeated study.
Historical Comparison
Adjust display and sound settings consistently when comparing games from different eras.
Preservation Review
Use the location test version as a reference point for examining how the original changed before release.
Platforms, release window, and availability
The official listing identifies Metal Slug Ultimate Collection as an action title with local play for one player and network play for two players. The collection is scheduled for 2027, while the listed price is currently TBD. Because the launch date and pricing details may change, players should use the official page for the latest announcements.
| Category | Officially listed information |
|---|---|
| Genre | Action |
| Local players | 1 |
| Network players | 2 |
| Release window | 2027 |
| Price | TBD |
| Age rating | Pending |
| PlayStation | PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4 |
| Xbox | Xbox Series X|S |
| Nintendo | Nintendo Switch |
| PC | Steam |
Online co-op requirements also depend on the platform. The official listing states that online co-op on Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, and Xbox requires the relevant platform’s paid online service subscription.
The collection is planned for PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and Steam. The 2027 release window is confirmed on the official listing, but final price and rating details remain pending.
Use the following preparation checklist before launch:
Before You Start:
- Choose release order or historical-era order
- Decide whether to use Quick Save and Rewind for practice
- Check the official page for updated platform information
- Review online-service requirements for network co-op
- Reserve time to compare the location test version with the original
The best platform depends on how you plan to play. Players focused on portable sessions may prefer Nintendo Switch, while those already using a current console or PC can select the version that fits their existing setup. No single platform should be treated as the universal choice before final feature parity and pricing details are announced.
Collection goals and comparison checklist
A strong completion plan should include more than simply opening every title. The collection is built around both play and preservation, so the most rewarding goals combine a full lineup tour with focused comparisons.
| Goal | Completion standard | Suggested approach |
|---|---|---|
| Mainline tour | Play Metal Slug 1–7 | Follow release order |
| Early-era study | Compare Metal Slug, 2, and X | Note changes in presentation and pacing |
| Middle-era study | Play Metal Slug 3, 4, and 5 | Compare the 2000–2003 group |
| Later-era study | Complete Advance, 6, and 7 | Review the 2004–2008 expansion |
| Archive review | Examine the location test version | Compare it with the finished original |
| Feature test | Try Quick Save, Load, and Rewind | Use one difficult section as a practice case |
When comparing games, keep the process consistent. Play a reasonable portion of each title, use similar display and sound settings, and record observations immediately. This prevents one memorable stage or vehicle encounter from overshadowing the larger differences between releases.
Useful comparison categories include:
- Stage structure: How each game organizes movement, hazards, and encounters.
- Presentation: How visual and audio choices change across the historical eras.
- Pacing: Whether the action feels more compact, extended, or experimental.
- Archive value: What the location test version reveals about the original.
- Convenience: How Quick Save, Quick Load, and Rewind affect practice.
Take notes by era rather than ranking every game immediately. Historical context makes the collection easier to understand and avoids reducing ten different releases to a single score.
For a focused first session, complete the original Metal Slug and one early follow-up. Then pause to compare the basic rhythm, presentation, and feature settings before moving deeper into the lineup. This approach keeps the collection approachable while preserving its broader historical purpose.
Metal Slug Ultimate Collection FAQ
Q: How many games are in Metal Slug Ultimate Collection?
The official feature description presents a 10-title collection. It includes Metal Slug 1 through 7, Metal Slug Advance, and a rare location test version of the original Metal Slug.
Q: Which Metal Slug game should I play first?
Start with the original Metal Slug and then continue in release order. This makes the changes across the early, middle, and later eras easier to follow.
Q: What modern features are planned for the collection?
The listed features include Quick Save, Quick Load, Rewind, and display and sound settings. Available functionality may vary by title.
Q: When will Metal Slug Ultimate Collection release?
The official listing gives a 2027 release window. The price is currently listed as TBD, and the rating is pending.
Release details, pricing, ratings, and title-specific functionality can change before launch. Confirm the latest information through the official SNK collection page before making a platform decision.
The collection’s main strength is its range. It offers the recognizable numbered run, a handheld entry, modern preservation features, and a rare development-era version in one historical package. For new players, release order provides the clearest route. For longtime fans, the location test version and M2’s emulation work create additional reasons to revisit the series in 2027.