Metal Slug Tactics gameplay footage shows off its chunky sprites and vivid backgrounds

Metal Slug Tactics was a lovely surprise when first announced back at E3 2021. The sidescrolling run-and-gun series didn't seem to have a tactics game in it, but it turns out it does, and Leikir Studio is really leaning into what makes the Metal Slug games special: the art style.

The footage above was released today as part of the latest Nintendo Direct (yep: it's coming to Switch). If you missed it back in June, Metal Slug Tactics is a grid-based tactical RPG, and the combination of the isometric view and the lush pixel art is reminiscent of Into the Breach. It's definitely a joy to look at.

"This new footage of frontline powerhouses Marco, Eri, Fio, and Tarma rolling out to battle from a headquarters packed with nods to the long-running series’ history," according to the official blurb accompanying the trailer. "The team returns with their signature arsenal—including the reliable heavy machine gun and devastating SVX-15D Slugnoid mech—as they face down fresh tactical fights."

Sounds appealing. No word as yet on when Metal Slug Tactics will release, but it has a Steam page.

Shaun Prescott

Shaun Prescott is the Australian editor of PC Gamer. With over ten years experience covering the games industry, his work has appeared on GamesRadar+, TechRadar, The Guardian, PLAY Magazine, the Sydney Morning Herald, and more. Specific interests include indie games, obscure Metroidvanias, speedrunning, experimental games and FPSs. He thinks Lulu by Metallica and Lou Reed is an all-time classic that will receive its due critical reappraisal one day.