# Metal Slug 5 - A High-Octane Neo-Geo Run and Gun Adventure
*Metal Slug 5*, released in November 2003 for the Neo-Geo MVS arcade platform by SNK Playmore, is the fifth main entry in the *Metal Slug* series. Developed post-SNK’s bankruptcy, it follows Peregrine Falcon Squad members Marco Rossi, Tarma Roving, Eri Kasamoto, and Fio Germi as they battle the Ptolemaic Army, a paramilitary cult stealing Metal Slug data and unleashing supernatural threats. Featuring five missions, new vehicles (e.g., Slug Gunner, Spider Slug), and weapons (e.g., Big Shotgun, Enemy Chaser), it introduces a slide move for dodging. With vibrant 16-bit pixel art and a soundtrack by Toshikazu Tanaka, it was ported to PlayStation 2 and Xbox (2004, bundled with *Metal Slug 4*) and Nintendo Switch (2017 via *ACA NEOGEO*). Though praised for its action, it received mixed reviews (Metacritic: 70/100 for PS2/Xbox) for its shorter length and cut content due to rushed development.
## Why Play Metal Slug 5?
*Metal Slug 5* delivers relentless run and gun action with new mechanics like the slide move, enhancing mobility. Its five missions feature diverse settings (e.g., jungles, ruins, snowy bases) and supernatural enemies like demons and masked soldiers, with epic bosses like the Black Hound. New vehicles, including the walker-like Slug Gunner, add variety, while the Disc System rewards chaining kills for bonuses. Two-player co-op (local or online in modern ports) boosts replayability (2-3 hours main story, 4-6 for completion). Its crisp controls and chaotic gameplay make it a must-play for retro ROM and shooter fans, though its shorter campaign and lack of branching paths may disappoint compared to *Metal Slug 3*.
## Game Features
- Play as 4 characters: Marco, Tarma, Eri, or Fio across 5 missions
- Use handguns, grenades, and new weapons like Big Shotgun and Enemy Chaser
- Pilot vehicles: Metal Slug, Slug Gunner, Spider Slug, Slug Mobile
- Perform slide moves to dodge attacks and navigate tight spaces
- 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 5 Online
Lock and load today! Our website, Classic Joy Games, lets you play *Metal Slug 5* 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 slight slowdown.
Join players worldwide and enjoy *Metal Slug 5* on Classic Joy Games or modern platforms. Start your mission now and crush the Ptolemaic Army to uphold the *Metal Slug* legacy!