Metal Slug Tactics: Top Tips and Strategies for Success

Key Takeaways

1. Understand each character’s unique abilities to maximize effectiveness on the battlefield.
2. Use Synchronization attacks and constantly move to optimize damage output and boost Adrenaline.
3. Don’t hoard resources use Adrenaline and Assets strategically to maintain an aggressive playstyle.

Metal Slug Tactics, the latest addition to the beloved Metal Slug series, redefines the game’s essence with a fresh tactical and strategic twist. No longer the classic run-and-gun experience, Metal Slug Tactics demands calculated moves and efficient use of each character’s strengths, along with roguelike mechanics that bring endless replayability. Here, we’ll guide you through essential strategies and in-depth tips to conquer the battlefield and emerge victorious.

Know Your Deployed Characters and Their Abilities

Metal Slug Tactics introduces a diverse cast of characters, each equipped with unique weapons, passives, and Special Actions that can greatly influence battle outcomes. Familiarize yourself with your characters before diving into combat, as this knowledge is crucial to crafting effective strategies.

For instance, Eri’s expertise with explosives makes her particularly effective at causing widespread damage, but her bomb attacks can unintentionally harm allies if they’re caught in the blast radius. Leveraging her Synchronization attack allows her to deliver additional hits, even if the target isn’t directly in her line of fire.

The diversity in characters means that understanding each of their skills, passives, and attack styles opens up a wealth of options, especially when paired with the game’s unique Synchronization mechanic.

Master Synchronization for Maximum Damage

Synchronization is a key mechanic in Metal Slug Tactics that allows multiple characters to attack the same target simultaneously, amplifying your damage output. By positioning characters wisely and triggering Synchronizations, you can deal far more damage than with standard single attacks.

Plan your moves to ensure that every attack you initiate can trigger a Synchronization. This strategy not only maximizes each turn’s effectiveness but also allows you to make quick work of tough enemies. Eri’s Mad Bomber passive, for example, grants her extra movement after each enemy kill, enabling her to continue Synchronizing with other characters.

Always Be Moving to Build Adrenaline

Movement is essential in Metal Slug Tactics, as it not only enhances your character’s dodge chance but also builds Adrenaline. This resource is crucial for executing Special Actions, which can shift the course of a battle. Unlike many tactical games that reward a defensive approach, Metal Slug Tactics thrives on aggressive, forward-moving strategies.

Each turn spent moving boosts Adrenaline, so avoid staying in one place too long. If you need to end your turn behind cover, consider doing so, but don’t remain stationary just for the sake of safety it’s essential to maintain a balance between moving, dodging, and preparing for powerful Special Actions.

Use Adrenaline Wisely: Special Actions Are Game-Changers

Adrenaline doesn’t carry over to the next mission, so there’s no benefit in hoarding it. Regularly use Special Actions to unleash devastating attacks that can turn the tide of combat in your favor. Metal Slug Tactics encourages aggressive play, and effective use of Special Actions will make missions significantly easier.

Many Special Actions don’t focus solely on dealing damage but offer strategic advantages. For instance, you may be able to reposition enemies, setting them up for a powerful Synchronization attack in the following round.

Don’t Rely Solely on Cover

While cover offers a temporary boost to defense, staying behind it for too long can hinder your progress. Metal Slug Tactics encourages players to stay on the move rather than adopt a defensive, stationary position. Use cover to end turns safely if necessary, but prioritize movement to maintain optimal Adrenaline and dodge chances.

Over-relying on cover can slow your team’s advancement, limiting your opportunities for Synchronization attacks and Adrenaline generation. Strike a balance use cover when entering new areas, but keep your characters moving once they’re engaged in combat.

Unlock and Experiment with New Loadouts

As you progress, you’ll earn Coins and Credits that can be spent on different Loadouts for each character. Loadouts offer alternate builds, expanding the range of strategies you can employ. Loadouts vary significantly, with some focusing on melee combat, others on ranged attacks, and others still on elevation advantages.

Different Loadouts allow you to adapt to various combat scenarios, particularly if you’ve mastered Synchronization. Experiment with new Loadouts as they become available to keep your strategies fresh and cater to each mission’s specific demands.

Take Advantage of Vehicles Whenever Possible

Vehicles are powerful assets in Metal Slug Tactics. When available, make it a priority to reach them early. Vehicles, such as the classic tank and the exoskeleton, can perform multiple attacks per turn and have devastating AoE effects, making them ideal for clearing large groups of enemies.

However, vehicles come with limited fuel and are destructible, so use them strategically. If a vehicle is destroyed, the character inside will suffer severe consequences. Still, the benefits of using vehicles far outweigh the downsides, especially in lower difficulty levels where they can be game-changers.

Focus on Bosses in Boss Fights

Bosses in Metal Slug Tactics boast massive health pools, and spending too much time on lesser enemies can make these fights drag on longer than necessary. Bosses often deal collateral damage to nearby enemies, so prioritize them while letting the boss take out some of its own soldiers.

It’s essential to keep your focus on the boss, but don’t ignore the smaller enemies entirely if they pose an immediate threat or could block your movement paths. Save your most powerful abilities and Synchronizations for the boss to maximize damage and shorten the battle duration.

Build an Effective Party for Your Playstyle

In Metal Slug Tactics, there’s no definitive “best” team composition, but a balanced party will generally serve you well. A good setup typically includes:

1. A close-range melee specialist for high primary weapon damage.
2. A support or strategist who can heal, protect, or reposition allies.
3. A character with a long-range weapon to provide coverage from afar.

Experiment with different combinations and Loadouts to find a party that complements your preferred strategies. Certain missions may require adjustments, so flexibility in team selection is key.

Prioritize Loadouts Over Random Upgrades

When spending Credits, prioritize unlocking Loadouts first. Unlike random weapon or ability upgrades, Loadouts provide a guaranteed change in character abilities and allow you to directly influence your strategy from the start of each run. Loadouts also add variety to gameplay, keeping each run engaging and allowing you to try different tactical approaches.

Complete Multiple Locations for Unlocks

Completing missions across different locations allows you to unlock new characters. You don’t have to visit every location in a single run, but balancing your progress and resources is essential. The final city serves as the ultimate location, so make sure your team is equipped with sufficient weapons, abilities, and Assets before challenging the last boss.

For optimal results, consider finishing runs with varying location counts one run with two locations, one with three, and one with four. This approach will unlock additional characters, expanding your strategic options.

Don’t Forget to Use Your Assets

Assets are powerful items that can turn the tide of battle when used wisely. These aren’t carried over between runs, so don’t hesitate to use them. Assets don’t consume a character’s turn, making them ideal for emergency situations or tough boss encounters.

Embrace Friendly Fire for Strategic Advantage

In Metal Slug Tactics, certain characters wield explosive weapons that can inflict friendly fire damage. While it may seem risky, sacrificing minor health for the greater good can be a smart move. Characters heal between missions, so it’s often worth taking a little damage to eliminate an enemy. You can also apply protective abilities, such as Fio’s defensive skills, to offset the damage if needed.

FAQs

Q1: What is Synchronization in Metal Slug Tactics?
A: Synchronization is a mechanic where characters can attack the same target simultaneously if positioned correctly. This tactic maximizes damage output each turn, making it a vital strategy for efficient combat.

Q2: How does Adrenaline work, and how should I use it?
A: Adrenaline is generated through movement and is required to perform Special Actions. Since it doesn’t carry over to the next mission, it’s best to use Adrenaline regularly for offensive moves and buffs to maintain an aggressive edge in battle.

Q3: Are vehicles really that powerful, and are there risks to using them?
A: Yes, vehicles are highly effective, especially in lower difficulties, as they allow multiple attacks per turn and have AoE capabilities. The risk lies in their destructibility, so manage vehicle usage wisely and Eject characters before the vehicle is destroyed.

Q4: How should I prioritize spending Credits on Loadouts or upgrades?
A: Loadouts offer immediate strategic benefits, so prioritize them over random upgrades. Loadouts grant specific abilities and playstyles from the start, enabling better control over your strategy.

Q5: Should I always complete every location before facing the final boss?
A: Not necessarily. It depends on your team’s strength and available resources. Completing more locations grants additional upgrades, but it’s also possible to reach the final boss after fewer locations if your party is well-prepared.

By following these tips and mastering the game’s intricate mechanics, you’ll be well on your way to success in Metal Slug Tactics. Embrace each character’s unique strengths, make strategic use of Synchronizations, and let no opportunity for Adrenaline generation go to waste.