Metal Slug 4 vs Metal Slug Advance
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
Metal Slug 4 continues the iconic side‑scrolling shooter series with fast‑paced, pixel‑perfect combat. Players blast through enemy hordes across diverse environments, from war‑torn cities to alien-infested ruins, using a wide arsenal of weapons and vehicles. The game offers both solo missions and cooperative play, letting friends team up to tackle the relentless onslaught together. Originally released in 2002, the title has been ported to modern platforms including Android, iOS, PC, and PlayStation 2, preserving its retro charm while delivering smooth controls and vibrant graphics. With a solid ESRB T rating, Metal Slug 4 delivers intense arcade action suitable for teen and older gamers.
Metal Slug Advance brings the iconic arcade shooter to handheld devices with crisp 2D graphics and fast‑paced combat. Players control the elite squad as they blast through enemy lines, rescue hostages, and unleash a barrage of weapons in a comedic wartime setting. The game retains the series' signature humor and over‑the‑top explosions while adding new power‑ups and level designs tailored for portable play, delivering a nostalgic yet fresh experience for both veterans and newcomers.
- Fast‑paced, addictive gameplay
- Rich variety of weapons and vehicles
- Co‑operative mode enhances replay value
- Authentic retro graphics and sound
- Faithful recreation of the Metal Slug feel
- Wide variety of weapons and vehicles
- Humorous and engaging visual style
- Responsive handheld controls
- Limited online multiplayer options
- Difficulty spikes in later stages
- Some control schemes feel dated on touch devices
- Limited to single‑player experience
- No modern online features
- Short overall campaign length
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Alternatives to Metal Slug 4
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Alternatives to Metal Slug Advance
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The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataMetal Slug Advance is the safer default choice due to its much higher critic score and tighter focus, traded off against its lack of multiplayer. Metal Slug 4 offers co-op play at half the price, but suffers from a lower critic score and dated touch controls.
Key differences
- •Multiplayer: Metal Slug Advance is strictly single player, whereas Metal Slug 4 supports up to two players locally or via network co-op.
- •Pricing & Critical Reception: Metal Slug Advance costs $19.99 with an 89/100 critic score, while Metal Slug 4 is $9.99 with a 64/100 critic score.
- •Controls & Hardware: Metal Slug Advance features responsive controls optimized for handheld play, while Metal Slug 4's port features control schemes that can feel dated on touch devices.
- •Campaign & Extras: Metal Slug Advance has a short overall campaign length and collectible medals that unlock bonus stages, while Metal Slug 4 features dynamic enemy AI and levels designed with multiple pathways.
Gameplay & fun factor
Metal Slug Advance achieves an 89/100 critic score for its faithful feel and responsive handheld controls, compared to Metal Slug 4's 64/100.
Platform availability
Not specified
Price & value
Metal Slug 4 is priced at $9.99, making it half the cost of Metal Slug Advance's $19.99 MSRP.
Multiplayer / co-op
Metal Slug 4 features local and network co-operative mode for up to two players, whereas Metal Slug Advance is single player only.
Content & replayability
Both feature multiple pathways and hidden secrets, but Advance uses collectible medals for bonus stages while Metal Slug 4 relies on replay exploration.
Difficulty & accessibility
Metal Slug Advance has responsive handheld controls, while Metal Slug 4 suffers from difficulty spikes in later stages and dated touch controls.
Graphics & performance
Metal Slug Advance features humorous enemy designs and a comedic warfare tone praised by critics, whereas Metal Slug 4 retains original arcade assets.
Choose Metal Slug 4 if…
Budget-conscious players looking for a cheaper entry with local or network co-op support.
Choose Metal Slug Advance if…
Solo players wanting a critically acclaimed handheld retro shooter experience with tight controls.
Common questions
Can I play either game with a friend?
Yes, Metal Slug 4 supports co-operative play for up to two players locally or via network. Metal Slug Advance is strictly single player.
Which game is cheaper to buy?
Metal Slug 4 has an MSRP of $9.99, while Metal Slug Advance costs $19.99.
How do the two games compare in critic reviews?
Metal Slug Advance holds an 89/100 critic score, whereas Metal Slug 4 has a critic score of 64/100.