Understanding the Weapon System in Metal Slug
In Metal Slug, players typically start with a basic pistol and a few grenades. However, as the game progresses, they can acquire various weapons through item drops, crates, POW rescues, or special pickups. Each weapon drastically changes your gameplay style and survival chances. Recognizing them and using them wisely is essential.
Weapon Pickups
Weapons are usually dropped from:
- Weapon Crates
- POWs (Prisoners of War)
- Destroyed enemy supply boxes or vehicles
- Hidden areas or timed events
Weapon Resetting
All the Classic Weapons in Metal Slug , note that when a player dies, they lose their current weapon and revert back to the pistol. This makes weapon management a critical skill in high difficulty missions.
The Classic Weapons of Metal Slug
Basic Weapons
1. Pistol (Handgun)
The default weapon. It has unlimited ammo and fires in a straight line. The pistol is weak and slow but reliable. Its your last resort in a tough situation, especially if you have lost your main weapon.
2. Heavy Machine Gun (HMG)
This is arguably the most iconic weapon in Metal Slug. It fires rapid bullets with decent damage and wide spread. The famous “HEAVY MACHINE GUN!” voice is unforgettable. It works well against large groups of enemies and airborne targets.
Close Range Destruction Weapons
3. Shotgun
The shotgun delivers massive damage at close range and can destroy most enemies instantly, including mid tier bosses. Its highly effective in tight spaces but limited by its short range. Use it when you know enemies are close and clustered.
4. Flame Shot
This weapon shoots a continuous burst of flames that melts enemies and even burns through armored foes. Its excellent against biological enemies but less effective against machines. Use it in narrow areas to trap and eliminate enemies quickly.
Explosive Weapons
5. Rocket Launcher (R. Launcher)
This fires explosive rockets that deal area damage. Its slower than other weapons but powerful against tanks and heavy units. Avoid using it on fast-moving targets. Best for boss fights or destruction missions.
6. Laser Gun
This high tech weapon fires a constant beam that disintegrates enemies. Its one of the most powerful weapons in the game and deals continuous damage as long as the beam is in contact. Limited ammo makes it precious, use wisely.
Energy and Advanced Tech Weapons
7. Enemy Chaser
Fires homing missiles that track enemies, especially flying units. Its ideal for when you are overwhelmed by enemies from multiple angles. While not as powerful per shot, the tracking ability compensates for it.
8. Iron Lizard
A quirky weapon that releases mechanical lizards that explode upon hitting enemies. They move along the ground and are particularly effective in horizontal spaces. Although unpredictable, they add charm and chaos to gameplay.
Specialty & Quirky Weapons
9. Drop Shot
This grenade like projectile bounces along the ground and explodes on impact. Tricky to use but deadly in skilled hands. Its useful in slopes, tunnels, and corridors where enemy movement is predictable.
10. Super Grenade
An enhanced version of regular grenades, the super grenade causes massive splash damage. Usually available in late game stages or special missions, it’s great for crowd control or large mechanical enemies.
Grenades and Explosives
Basic Grenades
Each player starts with a limited number of grenades. They arc in flight and deal high explosive damage. Great for throwing over cover or at clusters of enemies. Aim carefully and conserve them for difficult encounters.
Other Explosives
- Molotov Cocktails – Found in specific missions; causes flame damage over time.
- C4 Charges – Used in sabotage stages or mission objectives.
- Timed Bombs – Planted during stealth style missions; explode after delay.
Weapon Strategy Tips for Beginners and Pros
Switching Weapons Tactically
Dont grab every weapon you find. If you already have a powerful weapon like the Laser Gun, grabbing a weaker pickup (like Iron Lizard) might be a downgrade. Analyze the situation before switching.
Save Strong Weapons for Boss Fights
Metal Slug bosses can be brutal. Conserve powerful weapons like the Rocket Launcher or Laser Gun for these segments. Dont waste them on regular soldiers unless necessary.
Know Your Terrain
Certain weapons work better in specific terrains. Shotguns and Flame Shots dominate in caves or tunnels, while homing missiles are great in open-air battles against flying units.
Use Grenades Aggressively
Grenades are essential in Metal Slug. Use them when overwhelmed or against armored enemies. Learn to arc them to land perfectly on boss weak spots or enemy nests.
Voice Lines and Iconic Weapon Sounds
One of the most beloved aspects of Metal Slug is the announcer. Who can forget the enthusiastic callout:
- “HEAVY MACHINE GUN!”
- “SHOTGUN!”
- “FLAME SHOT!”
These sound bites are not only nostalgic but also help players recognize what weapon they just picked up, even in the heat of battle.
Hidden and Rare Weapons
Thunder Shot
Appears in select titles or custom missions. It shoots electric bolts that stun and damage enemies. Rare and powerful.
Clone Gun
Fires duplicates of your character to confuse enemies and deal simultaneous damage. Rare but fun to use.
Zombie Vomit (Metal Slug 3)
When infected and turned into a zombie, you can vomit acidic blood. Its grotesque but highly damaging to enemies. One of the weirdest and most creative “Weapons” in the series.
The Metal Slug weapon system is as iconic as the series itself. Each weapon brings a unique style, requiring players to adapt, improvise, and master combat scenarios. From the simplicity of the Pistol to the devastating power of the Laser Gun, knowing your arsenal is the key to surviving this chaotic and entertaining battlefield.
So next time you pick up a weapon crate and hear that classic voice say, “HEAVY MACHINE GUN,” know that you are holding a piece of gaming history in your virtual hands.