Metal Slug Anthology

Game Overview

Metal Slug Anthology (also known as Metal Slug Complete in Japan) is a comprehensive collection of the main Metal Slug series titles released to mark the franchise’s 10th anniversary. Developed by Terminal Reality and published by SNK Playmore, the Wii version launched in North America on December 14, 2006 (Europe: March 30, 2007). It brings the iconic Neo Geo run-and-gun games to Nintendo’s console with faithful arcade conversions.

The collection includes seven games: Metal Slug (1996), Metal Slug 2 (1998), Metal Slug X (1999), Metal Slug 3 (2000), Metal Slug 4 (2002), Metal Slug 5 (2003), and Metal Slug 6 (2006). Each title features the series’ signature blend of intense side-scrolling shooting, humorous characters, highly detailed pixel art animations, vehicle sections (the famous Metal Slug tank and more), and challenging bosses. Two-player cooperative play is supported across the games, allowing friends to blast through levels together.

The Wii version stands out with multiple control configurations that take advantage of the Wii Remote and Nunchuk (including motion gestures for grenades in some schemes), while also supporting the GameCube Controller. Players can unlock galleries of classic artwork, character designs, posters, music tracks, and exclusive bonus content by earning points. It remains one of the most complete and convenient ways to experience the classic Metal Slug series on a home console.

Quick Specifications

• Platform: Nintendo Wii

• Developer: Terminal Reality (original games by SNK Playmore / Nazca)

• Publisher: SNK Playmore (Ignition Entertainment in Europe)

• Release Date: December 14, 2006 (North America); March 30, 2007 (Europe)

• Genre: Run and Gun / Side-Scrolling Shooter / Compilation

• Modes: Single-player, Local Cooperative Multiplayer (2 players)

• ESRB Rating: T (Teen) – Blood, Violence

• Players: 1–2

• Controls: Wii Remote, Wii Remote + Nunchuk, GameCube Controller

• Also Available On: PlayStation 2, PlayStation Portable, later digital re-releases

Key Features

• Seven arcade-perfect Metal Slug games in one collection: Metal Slug, Metal Slug 2, Metal Slug X, Metal Slug 3, Metal Slug 4, Metal Slug 5, and Metal Slug 6.

• Classic run-and-gun gameplay with highly detailed 2D animations, humor, and over-the-top action.

• Two-player cooperative multiplayer support.

• Multiple Wii-specific control schemes utilizing the Wii Remote and Nunchuk (including motion controls).

• GameCube Controller support for traditional play.

• Unlockable bonus content including art galleries, music tracks, posters, and exclusive extras.

• Faithful Neo Geo arcade conversions with the original difficulty and charm intact.

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Which Metal Slug games are included in the Anthology?

The collection includes seven titles: Metal Slug (1), Metal Slug 2, Metal Slug X, Metal Slug 3, Metal Slug 4, Metal Slug 5, and Metal Slug 6.

Does the Wii version support two-player co-op?

Yes. All included games support local two-player cooperative play.

What control options are available on Wii?

The game supports several configurations: Wii Remote alone, Wii Remote + Nunchuk, Nunchuk alone (in some schemes), and the GameCube Controller. Motion gestures (such as flicking for grenades) are available in certain control setups. Note that the Classic Controller is not supported for gameplay in Western versions.

Are the games arcade-perfect?

Yes. The titles are faithful conversions of the original Neo Geo arcade games (with Metal Slug 6 being a port of the arcade version).

Are there unlockables?

Yes. Players can unlock art galleries, character designs, posters, music tracks, and other bonus content by earning points through gameplay.

Is online multiplayer available?

No. Multiplayer is limited to local two-player cooperative play.