# Metal Slug 4 - A Chaotic Neo-Geo Run and Gun Sequel
*Metal Slug 4*, released in July 2002 for the Neo-Geo MVS arcade platform by Mega Enterprise and Noise Factory, is the fourth main entry in the *Metal Slug* series, developed after SNK’s 2001 bankruptcy. Published by Playmore (later SNK Playmore), it follows Marco Rossi and Fio Germi, joined by new characters Nadia Cassel and Trevor Spacey, as they battle the Amadeus Syndicate, a terrorist group allied with General Morden’s Rebel Army to unleash the “White Baby” cyber virus threatening global military systems. Featuring six missions, new weapons (e.g., Double Heavy Machine Gun), vehicles (e.g., Bradley, Forklift), and the Metallish System for bonus scoring, it retains the series’ run and gun gameplay but reuses assets from *Metal Slug X*. Ported to PlayStation 2, Xbox (2004), and Nintendo Switch (2018 via *ACA NEOGEO*), it received mixed reviews (Metacritic: 70/100 for PS2/Xbox compilation with *Metal Slug 5*) for its lack of innovation but is valued for its chaotic action and co-op fun.
## Why Play Metal Slug 4?
*Metal Slug 4* delivers classic *Metal Slug* action with new characters Nadia and Trevor, replacing Eri and Tarma, who are absent due to other assignments. The Metallish System rewards high scores by collecting emblems and chaining kills, adding replayability. New vehicles like the Forklift and Walking Machine, plus transformations (e.g., Monkey), bring quirky variety, though the game leans heavily on recycled assets. Its six missions feature varied settings (e.g., New Godokin, Gerhardt City) and bosses like a robotic Allen O’Neil, with two-player co-op enhancing the chaos (2-3 hours main story, 4-6 for completion). While less innovative than *Metal Slug 3*, its fast-paced combat and vibrant pixel art make it a solid pick for retro ROM and shooter fans, though high difficulty and occasional slowdown may challenge some.
## Game Features
- Play as 4 characters: Marco, Fio, Nadia, or Trevor across 6 missions
- Use handguns, grenades, and new weapons like Double Heavy Machine Gun (2H)
- Pilot vehicles: Metal Slug, Bradley, Metal Crow, Forklift, Walking Machine, RA-TTT truck
- Engage the Metallish System for bonus scoring via emblem collection
- Two-player co-op via local (arcade) or online (modern ports like Steam)
- Experience authentic Neo-Geo gameplay on our retro ROM platform or in *Metal Slug Anthology* (Wii, PSP, PS2) and *ACA NEOGEO* (PS4, Switch, PC)
## Play Metal Slug 4 Online
Lock and load today! Our website, Classic Joy Games, lets you play *Metal Slug 4* instantly with no downloads, optimized for modern browsers using Neo-Geo emulators. Alternatively, enjoy it on Steam, GOG, Nintendo Switch (*ACA NEOGEO*), or mobile (iOS/Android) with features like save states and online co-op. Physical copies are available on eBay or Amazon for retro consoles. Ideal for fans of retro ROMs and run and gun shooters! Note: For emulation, use MAME or FB Neo with runahead for minimal input lag; PS2/Xbox ports may have minor slowdown.
Join players worldwide and enjoy *Metal Slug 4* on Classic Joy Games or modern platforms. Start your mission now and stop the Amadeus Syndicate to uphold the *Metal Slug* legacy!