Metal Slug 3

Game Overview

Metal Slug 3 on the PlayStation Vita brings SNK's iconic, critically acclaimed arcade masterpiece directly to handheld hardware. Widely regarded as the high watermark of the classic run-and-gun series, the game retains its trademark hand-drawn sprite aesthetics, frantic pacing, and over-the-top humor while delivering pixel-perfect portable execution.

Players select from veteran heroes Marco, Tarma, Eri, or Fio to blast through massive, multi-tiered stages featuring branching paths and hidden secrets. The game expands significantly on its predecessors by introducing wild new vehicles (including the Elephant Slug, Drill Slug, and Ostrich Slug), diverse weapon power-ups, and grotesque transformations—such as becoming a fast-moving zombie who unleashes a devastating puke attack. Complete with responsive physical controls, local cooperative play, and cross-buy integration, it provides an authentic arcade action experience on the go.

Quick Specifications

• Developer: SNK / Code Mystics

• Publisher: SNK Corporation / Limited Run Games (Physical)

• Platform: PlayStation Vita (Digital PlayStation Network / Limited Physical Release)

• Release Date: March 2015 (Digital PSN), August 2019 (Physical Limited Run Games)

• Genre: Action, Run and Gun, Arcade

• Player Count: 1 to 2 Players (Local Co-op via Ad-Hoc / Controller Support)

• Languages / Subtitles: English, Japanese, French, Italian, German, Spanish

• Region Format: Region Free (Physical / Digital)

Key Features

• Classic Hand-Drawn Action: Immerse yourself in gorgeous, highly detailed 2D pixel-art animation packed with fluid motion and chaotic destruction.

• Branching Stage Routes: Explore massive levels featuring multiple alternative pathways, each offering distinct enemies, hazards, and rewards.

• Bizarre Slug Vehicles and Transformations: Pilot unique combat mechs and animals, or get infected to utilize powerful unique zombie move sets.

• Cooperative Multiplayer Support: Team up with a friend locally to tackle the relentless military and alien hordes together.

• Portable Arcade Precision: Enjoy tight, responsive button mapping tailored specifically for the PlayStation Vita's layout.

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Q: Was Metal Slug 3 released as a physical cartridge for the PS Vita?

A: Yes, while primarily a digital release on the PlayStation Store, Limited Run Games published an official, highly sought-after physical collector's edition cartridge for the PS Vita in August 2019.

Q: Does the PS Vita version support cooperative multiplayer?

A: Yes, the game supports local two-player cooperative gameplay modes so you can team up with another handheld player nearby.

Q: Are there any unique power-ups or status changes in this entry?

A: Beyond standard heavy machine guns, rocket launchers, and laser beams, players can contract a status ailment that turns them into a zombie, restricting movement but granting access to a screen-clearing "super vomit" attack.