Metal Slug Tribute

 SNK truly mastered the ability to produce fun games in 2D such as Metal Slug which reminded the gaming cognoscenti there was life and gameplay without polygons. Shin Nihon Kikau reminded the 3D obsessed gaming fraternity that graphics over gameplay isn't much fun. Pure refined game mechanics to bring a smile to the face of the most grizzled gaming veteran.
Some lovely touches such as reflections in puddles and chickens swimming through the water. There is something strangely gratifying in rescuing all hostages just as much as there is in using the flame thrower on parachutists as they fall from the sky.

In later versions its not just weapons too, tanks, jets, helicopters - even a mecha suit break up the standard run and gun fun for a brief, enjoyable stint - up there with riding the dragons in Golden Axe.  Enough to make you well up with pride. Plenty of vehicles to command and giant boss ships to let rip into. Wearing its 2D tats with pride and never taking itself too seriously, Metal Slug: we salute you.