Metal Slug XX takes you into a world where wars never cease, as the Peregrine Falcons squad returns to face a new and more ferocious threat than ever before. Their longtime nemesis, General Morden, has once again risen from the ashes. However, this time, he is not alone—he has summoned forces from the future to aid him, a fully armed army known as the Mars People, equipped with advanced technology far beyond this era. This army stands behind him, ready to rewrite history in his favor.

But as always, Marco, Tarma, Fio, and Eri do not stand idly by. They quickly realize that this war is no longer just a battle against Morden alone but a fight against a future that could turn into an unstoppable nightmare. The squad embarks on a new mission, traversing barren deserts, dark forests, and heavily fortified military bases, where they uncover evidence of alien involvement in the chaos. This is no longer just a war for power but a clash between different times and dimensions, with hidden forces seeking to alter the course of humanity itself. With every step forward, it becomes clear that the sinister alliance between Morden and his futuristic army is only part of a larger plan. Beyond the horizon, an even greater threat awaits—one they have never faced before. Will they be able to stop it before it’s too late?

When you step into the game’s world, you are not just playing—you are diving into an intense war where there is no room for mercy, in one of the best and most famous run-and-gun games. Your journey begins by selecting one of seven heroes, each with their own unique abilities, whether in speed, strength, or combat style. A major addition in this version is the inclusion of Leona Heidern, who was previously an exclusive DLC character but is now an integral part of the experience. Her presence adds a new tactical depth to the game, especially since she possesses unique and powerful abilities, such as the Moon Slasher attack.

The game throws you into seven hellish stages where there is not a single moment to rest. Enemies pour in from all directions, helicopters rain down missiles, and massive tanks advance without mercy. To survive, you must rely on your skills in jumping, sliding, and precise shooting while utilizing a vast arsenal of weapons, from light machine guns to devastating rocket launchers. Each weapon has its own strategic use, and knowing when to deploy them is crucial to avoiding deadly traps.

When comparing this game to its predecessor, Metal Slug 7, several improvements stand out. The most significant addition is the cooperative multiplayer mode, which was absent in the previous release. This feature makes the game even more thrilling, especially when facing giant enemies or navigating difficult stages. Now, you can share the action-packed experience with a friend, adding a new layer of tactical teamwork to the battles. The graphics have also been significantly enhanced, with upgraded resolution up to 1080p and even 4K support in certain versions, making the environments more detailed and the explosions more visually intense. The character movements have become smoother, offering a more responsive feel when jumping and shooting.

Additionally, new missions have been introduced in Combat School mode, a special game mode that allows players to take on side challenges to test their combat skills. Enemy placement has also become more dynamic, making encounters unpredictable—even for veteran players who have mastered the previous games. In short, this game is not just a refined version of the original—it is a complete reimagining, incorporating new elements that enhance the combat experience and make it more exciting and immersive.