SNK Arcade Classics: Volume 1 review

Just how many times are developers SNK going to release Metal Slug? It already appears on the Wii’s very own Metal Slug Anthology and can also be purchased as a stand-alone game on Virtual Console. You’d have thought that this particular juice box had already been sucked dry. But no, here it is again, trying its best to charm us one last (?) time with its visual wit and casual carnage. It’s clear then, that the appeal of this title relies heavily upon whether or not you already own any of the 16 titles in this volume. SNK newbies, prepare for numerous hours of retro fun with this one…

Arcade Classics is a solid compilation of old-school Neo Geo games. And although there’s nothing here to trump Street Fighter, the several beat-em-ups on offer, including World Heroes, will do a really good job of scratching the itch of aficionados of the genre. But by far the juiciest part of this package is the glorious abundance of retro shooting. As well as the tried and tested classic that is Metal Slug, there’s also a more obscure offering in Last Resort, an R-Type clone with a real mean streak. Add to that the bloody army romp that is Shock Troopers and you’ve got a great batch of shoot-em-ups for a thoroughly reasonable price.

Each game now has eight medals to unlock, too, rewarding the completion of certain objectives with bonus treats such as artwork and move lists. It’s a nice little addition that helps you appreciate a depth to the gameplay that may have otherwise been overlooked if you were just score attacking.

Dec 8, 2008