DESCRIPTION

Much like its forebears, Metal Slug 2nd Mission puts players in the role of a lone commando fighting through throngs of enemy soldiers, saving hostages, and commandeering powerful vehicles while doing so. A 2D side-scrolling shooter, players (as either a male or female operative) gun their way through 38 missions, wielding machine guns, shotguns, flamethrowers, bazookas, grenades, and various other weapons (twenty in all). Aesthetic differences aside, the choice of character will alter the mission order as well as the weaponry available.

Breaking up the usual run-n-gun fare are stages where players take control of the so-called Slug Fighter, Slug Sub, or Slug Tank. Take too much damage when piloting the submarine or aircraft and you'll be granted a minor reprieve in the form of a mini-event: getting shot down in the plane will see players having to make their way to safety using a jetpack with limited fuel; if the submarine is scuttled, they'll need to row to shore while avoiding mines.

As in earlier Metal Slug games, players are instructed to save any hostages encountered. With a Pokémon-esque twist, however, Metal Slug 2nd Mission encourages players to rescue all 100 prisoners, by replaying the game multiple times with different characters and by taking different branching paths within the levels. A list allowx players to keep track of the number of hostages already saved.

The more hostages rescued, the higher the rank and the more extra items that are unlocked. Each hostage also offers a tip or tidbit of information, with certain information only divulged to higher ranked players. As an added bonus, the higher the rank, the more ammo is provided. A Time Attack mode can be unlocked for those wanting an extra challenge. Gotta Rescue 'Em All! ~ Gavin Frankle, All Game Guide