The classic arcade shoot ’em up game METAL SLUG 3 first released in 2000, yet it remains beloved by fans to this day. With its fast-paced run-and-gun gameplay, diverse levels and enemies, and charming pixel art style, it’s easy to see why this entry in the METAL SLUG series has stood the test of time.

ADDICTIVE RUN-AND-GUN GAMEPLAY

At its core, METAL SLUG 3 is simply fun to play. You choose from four playable characters, each with their own weapons and abilities, and blast your way through armies of enemies. The controls are smooth and responsive, allowing you to jump, shoot, and lob grenades with precision. Chaining together kills and avoiding damage feels great and keeps you hooked. The pace is fast but manageable, finding that sweet spot between chaotic and methodical. It’s easy to get drawn into the addictive gameplay loop of mowing down foes, rescuing prisoners, grabbing new weapons, and reaching the next checkpoint.

VARIED LEVELS AND ENEMIES

Another strong point of METAL SLUG 3 is its diverse locales and opponents. One moment you’re gunning down militia in a war-torn city, the next traversing ancient ruins or assaulting a military base. New enemies and hazards are introduced in each level, keeping you on your toes. The boss fights too are creative and challenging, acting as climactic endpoints to each stage. Visually, the pixel art animations are full of character and convey a surprising amount of detail. Along with the catchy music and sound effects, the presentation holds up remarkably well even today. There’s a reason METAL SLUG’s iconic visual style remains instantly recognizable.

APPROACHABLE DIFFICULTY

Make no mistake, METAL SLUG 3 can be punishingly difficult, especially on higher difficulty settings. However, the challenge feels fair compared to other notoriously tough arcade games. With practice and memorization, the levels become manageable. Single hits don’t instantly kill you, and there are no lives systems or limited continues. You’re simply placed back where you died to try again. This, combined with the short level length, ensures you’re never too far from your next attempt. The difficulty curve keeps you pushing yourself without leading to frustration. It hits that addictive sweet spot that compels you to try just one more time.

SATISFYING CO-OP

While certainly enjoyable solo, METAL SLUG 3 truly shines in 2-player co-op. Tag-teaming levels with a friend leads to chaotic fun and is an excellent way to attempt higher difficulties. Covering each other’s weaknesses and combining firepower is immensely satisfying. Few co-op experiences can match the camaraderie built while overcoming METAL SLUG 3’s challenges together. It’s a game best enjoyed with company.

POLISHED PORT

The ACA NEOGEO port remains faithful to the arcade original while adding some modern polish. Visual filters and screen settings allow you to replicate the original graphics or customize to your liking. Control options like virtual pads and button mapping provide flexibility. Online leaderboards let you compete globally and quick saving assists with the difficulty. It’s a port clearly crafted with care to appeal to devoted fans while opening the door for newcomers.

LEGACY OF A CLASSIC SERIES

Above all, the lasting popularity of METAL SLUG 3 comes down to its pedigree as an iconic entry in a long-running series. It refines the formula established by its beloved predecessors while upping the ante in scope and scale. Fans have fond nostalgia for this game that solidified METAL SLUG’s reputation for addictive run-and-gun action. It’s a classic that old-school SNK fans revisit again and again and holds up brilliantly for modern audiences discovering it for the first time.