No question, this is the hardest Metal Slug game. But being one to enjoy a challenge, that's why I consider it the best entry apart from Metal Slug 2.
Several years after MS2, Peregrine Falcon Squad is dispatched to destroy any remaining known Rebel Army strongholds to prevent another war from breaking out in the event Morden is still alive. As the game progresses, it seems the Martians from the prequel are back to try and conquer Earth.
For starters, combat in MS3 covers all areas of combat, on the ground, in the air, underwater, and eventually even outer space for the final showdown. And for the first time, you have the option of choosing a different route when your path branches off in another direction. Some routes are harder than others but have more POWs and pickups to increase your hi-score.
The range of enemies this time is insane and makes the game even wilder and more dynamic than ever. Along with mummies and the Martians, you'll battle giant mutant crabs and insects, zombies, man-eating plants, and yetis. And I loved how some of them doubled as pop culture references, like the Tar Men from Return of the Living Dead in Level 2, Brain Bugs from Starship Troopers in Level 4, and Daleks from Dr. Who in Level 5.
The soundtrack was the best in the entire series as far as I'm concerned. We've got "Blue Water Fangs" in level 1, a fast-paced action theme. Then there's "The Midnight Wandering" in level 2 a horror-rock song that perfectly fits the nighttime zombie infestation. And finally, "The Unknown World", a bizarre and frightening song played aboard the HR Geiger themed alien ship, Rugname, in the final level.
This is considered by many to be the toughest game in the series, thanks to the intensified combat, stronger bosses with difficult attacks to dodge and tons of health. The infamous Sol Da Rokka, who has a virtually unavoidable yellow energy bolt attack and only has one weak spot. The final level is extremely long and difficult to beat without dying, even for skilled players. I never pulled it off myself even on my best playthrough.
Still, any retro gamer who enjoys a challenge should give MS3 a try on Steam.
