Metal Slug X: Super Vehicle-001 is a 2D run-and-gun arcade game developed by SNK and released in 1999. It is not a completely new game, but an improved and rebalanced version of Metal Slug 2, designed to fix performance issues and refine gameplay while keeping the same core structure.
What is Metal Slug X?
Metal Slug X takes the original Metal Slug 2 and enhances it with faster gameplay, better enemy placement, new weapons, and improved pacing. The story still follows the Peregrine Falcon Squad as they battle General Morden’s forces and an alien invasion.
The “Super Vehicle-001” in the title refers to the iconic SV-001 tank, one of the most recognizable vehicles in the entire Metal Slug series.
Gameplay Overview
Fast and Refined Run-and-Gun Action
Gameplay remains classic side-scrolling shooting, but everything feels faster and more responsive compared to Metal Slug 2. Enemy placement is redesigned to make stages more balanced and challenging.
Improved Performance
One of the biggest improvements is the removal of the heavy slowdown issues that affected Metal Slug 2, making action smoother during intense combat scenes.
Same Stages, New Experience
All levels from Metal Slug 2 return, but enemy layouts, items, and pacing are changed, making familiar stages feel new again.
Weapons and Combat
Metal Slug X introduces and refines several weapons that later became staples of the series:
- Enemy Chaser – homing rocket weapon
- Iron Lizard – ground-traveling explosive vehicle
- Drop Shot – bouncing explosive grenade
- Super Grenade – powerful straight-firing explosive
- Stone – high-damage throwable rock
Weapon upgrades are more impactful, and “Big Weapons” provide stronger versions of standard guns when collected in special states.
Vehicles (Slugs)
The game features improved versions of classic vehicles:
- SV-001 Metal Slug tank
- SV-001 Type-R – upgraded faster tank variant
- SV-Camel – desert combat unit
- Slug Flyer – aerial combat vehicle
Transformations
Players can still be affected by status transformations, including:
- Mummy form – reduced mobility and altered attacks
- Fat form – increased firepower but slower movement
These effects add unpredictability and humor to gameplay.
Story Overview
The story continues the conflict with General Morden, who returns after previous defeats with a stronger army. However, the situation escalates when alien forces (the Mars People) join the battlefield, turning the war into a global crisis.
Why Metal Slug X Is Important
- Fixes Metal Slug 2 performance issues
- Rebalances enemy and item placement
- Introduces iconic weapons used in later games
- Faster and smoother gameplay
- Considered the definitive version of Metal Slug 2
Tips for Players
- Learn weapon behavior (Enemy Chaser is great for crowds)
- Use vehicles whenever possible for survival
- Rescue POWs for extra firepower
- Adapt quickly to transformation effects
- Keep moving to avoid being overwhelmed
Legacy
Metal Slug X is widely considered one of the best entries in the series because it refines Metal Slug 2 into a smoother, more balanced experience. It is often the preferred version for both new players and fans of classic arcade shooters.