Metal Slug 4 vs Metal Slug Anthology
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 Anthology brings together the iconic arcade shooters of the series into a single package, celebrating the 10th anniversary with enhanced graphics and trophy support. Available on PlayStation 2, 3, and 4, it offers both solo play and cooperative action for up to two players. The compilation features all original titles, upgraded to 1080p resolution, and includes modern conveniences like trophy tracking while preserving the series' signature humor and intense warfare gameplay.
- Fast‑paced, addictive gameplay
- Rich variety of weapons and vehicles
- Co‑operative mode enhances replay value
- Authentic retro graphics and sound
- Comprehensive collection of all classic titles
- Upgraded 1080p visuals improve clarity
- Trophy support adds modern achievement tracking
- Local co‑op for two players enhances replayability
- Limited online multiplayer options
- Difficulty spikes in later stages
- Some control schemes feel dated on touch devices
- Limited to PlayStation platforms only
- No online multiplayer functionality
- Original arcade difficulty may be steep for newcomers
More alternatives & similar tools
Alternatives to Metal Slug 4
View all →
Alternatives to Metal Slug Anthology
View all →
The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataMetal Slug Anthology offers a complete, upgraded collection of classic titles at a higher price, while Metal Slug 4 gives a single, cheaper game with network co‑op but no visual upgrades.
Key differences
- •Anthology bundles all mainline Metal Slug arcade games; Metal Slug 4 is just one installment.
- •Anthology upgrades visuals to native 1080p; Metal Slug 4 keeps original arcade graphics.
- •Metal Slug 4 supports local or network co‑op; Anthology only offers local co‑op.
- •Price: Anthology $19.99 vs Metal Slug 4 $9.99.
- •Anthology is limited to PlayStation consoles; Metal Slug 4 platform availability not specified.
Pricing & value
Metal Slug 4 costs $9.99, half the $19.99 price of the Anthology.
Content & replayability
Anthology includes every mainline Metal Slug arcade title, offering far more games to replay.
Multiplayer / co‑op
Metal Slug 4 adds network (online) co‑op, whereas Anthology only has local two‑player co‑op.
Graphics & performance
Anthology upgrades all games to native 1080p resolution; Metal Slug 4 retains original arcade graphics.
Platform availability
Anthology runs only on PlayStation 2/3/4; Metal Slug 4 platform list is not provided, so cannot confirm broader support.
Difficulty & accessibility
Both have steep arcade difficulty; Anthology notes steep for newcomers, Metal Slug 4 notes later-stage spikes.
Gameplay & fun factor
Anthology’s higher critic score (75) vs Metal Slug 4 (64) suggests stronger overall reception.
Choose Metal Slug 4 if…
Best for budget‑focused gamers who want a single title with online co‑op.
Choose Metal Slug Anthology if…
Best for collectors or players wanting the full Metal Slug series with modern visuals.
Common questions
Which option gives me more games for the money?
Anthology includes all mainline titles but costs $19.99; Metal Slug 4 is one game for $9.99.
Can I play with friends online?
Metal Slug 4 supports local or network co‑op; Anthology only offers local two‑player co‑op.
Will the graphics look sharper on my modern TV?
Anthology upgrades each game to native 1080p; Metal Slug 4 keeps the original arcade resolution.