7 fun games in 1

I don't think that you can ask for much more in a portable game for your PSP. Metal Slug Anthology is a fun, action-packed collection that is well worth the price of admission.

This set has a lot to offer. There are six different games on hand in the disc that includes Metal Slug 1-6 and Metal Slug X. All of the games offer about 5-6 different levels of frantic side scrolling shooter action that can be played alone or with a friend.

There really isn't much to be said about the gameplay here. If you've played any old-school arcade shooter, then you already know that your main objective is run, dodge, and shoot everything and try to make it to the next boss. Of course, this is easier said than done, as it is not uncommon to find yourself dying from a stray bullet that you just can't avoid. Its obvious that these games were made for quarter crunching arcade machines, and although the 21 continue default the game has is somewhat helpful, it can still be not enough due to the brutal opposition that comes your way. Thankfully, the game allows you set your continue amount to unlimited from the main options screen so that you can actually finish these games while seeing the humorous twist, turns, and characters througout.

Don't expect the 7 games to be all that different from each other. In lots of cases, you'll see the same main characters, the same weapons, and the same enemies. Other than different scenery in the levels and unique bosses for each, you'd almost have a hard time figuring out which game you were playing. However, you can see a slight evolution in graphics from 1-6, but all in all its the same animations and colorful graphics that have been standard throughout the series. As far as other nitpicks may go, the game does have a slight problem with loading times. They can be brutal. If you have the new 2000 series PSP, then it won't matter too much, but good old fatty owners may be turned off by this game's loading screens.

Is the game worth a buy? I'd say yes, but it really depends on your tastes. Although there are 7 games total, neither one should last you anymore than 30 minutes to play through. However, there is replay to be had if you want to challenge yourself with a short number of continues. Also, by playing numerous times, you unlock tokens that can be used to buy extras like wallpapers for your psp and other things. Plus, there is always the lure of co-op play. Games like this are meant for on the go play, and if that's what you are looking for, then Metal Slug Anthology is definitely worth a look.