If you’re looking for run-and-gun games like Metal Slug on Xbox Game Pass, you’re in luck. There are a number of great options to choose from, each with its own unique take on the genre.

In this article, we’ll introduce you to some of the best Xbox Game Pass games like Metal Slug. We’ll provide a brief overview of each game, as well as a table that compares their key features.

So, without further ado, let’s get started!

Top

1. Blazing Chrome

Blazing Chrome is a side-scrolling run-and-gun game that pays homage to the classics of the genre, such as Metal Slug and Contra. The game features beautiful pixel art graphics, fast-paced action, and a variety of weapons and power-ups.

2. Cyber Shadow

Cyber Shadow is a 2D action-platformer that combines the best elements of classic run-and-gun games with modern graphics and gameplay. The game features a shadowy ninja protagonist, a variety of challenging levels, and a punishing difficulty curve.

3. Gunstar Heroes

Gunstar Heroes is a classic run-and-gun game that was originally released for the Sega Genesis. The game is known for its beautiful graphics, fast-paced action, and innovative gameplay mechanics.

4. Mercenary Kings

Mercenary Kings is a 2D run-and-gun game that features procedurally generated levels and a variety of weapons and characters. The game is known for its frantic gameplay, large bosses, and deep customization options.

5. Metal Slug 3

Metal Slug 3 is the third installment in the Metal Slug series. The game is known for its beautiful graphics, challenging levels, and variety of weapons and characters.

: Comparison Table

Game	Genre	Features
Blazing Chrome	Side-scrolling run-and-gun	Beautiful pixel art graphics, fast-paced action, variety of weapons and power-ups
Cyber Shadow	2D action-platformer	Shadowy ninja protagonist, challenging levels, punishing difficulty curve
Gunstar Heroes	Classic run-and-gun	Beautiful graphics, fast-paced action, innovative gameplay mechanics
Mercenary Kings	2D run-and-gun	Procedurally generated levels, variety of weapons and characters, frantic gameplay, large bosses, deep customization options
Metal Slug 3	Run-and-gun	Beautiful graphics, challenging levels, variety of weapons and characters

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the best Xbox Game Pass game like Metal Slug?

A: The best Xbox Game Pass game like Metal Slug depends on your personal preferences. However, some of the most popular options include Blazing Chrome, Cyber Shadow, Gunstar Heroes, and Mercenary Kings.

Q: Is Metal Slug 3 on Xbox Game Pass?

A: Yes, Metal Slug 3 is available on Xbox Game Pass.

Q: Are there any other Xbox Game Pass games like Metal Slug?

A: Yes, there are a number of other Xbox Game Pass games like Metal Slug. Some of the most popular options include:

Contra: Anniversary Collection
Double Dragon Neon
River City Girls
Scott Pilgrim vs. the World: The Game
Streets of Rage 4

Conclusion

We hope this article has helped you find some great Xbox Game Pass games like Metal Slug. If you’re looking for a fast-paced, action-packed run-and-gun game, then you’re sure to find something you’ll enjoy on Xbox Game Pass.

References:

Xbox Game Pass Games with Side Scrolling

Ori and the Blind Forest (2015): A Metroidvania platformer set in a vibrant forest filled with mystical creatures.
Ori and the Will of the Wisps (2020): A sequel to Ori and the Blind Forest, expanding the game world and introducing new abilities.
Cuphead: The Delicious Last Course (2022): A run-and-gun platformer with hand-drawn animation and a challenging boss rush gameplay.
Hollow Knight (2017): A Metroidvania action-adventure game set in a vast, interconnected underground kingdom with a rich lore.
Dead Cells (2018): A roguelike action-platformer with procedurally generated levels and a focus on fast-paced combat.
The Messenger (2018): A ninja-action platformer that blends 8-bit and 16-bit art styles, offering a unique blend of classic and modern gameplay.
Guacamelee! 2 (2014): A Metroidvania platformer with grappling hooks, super strength, and luchador-inspired combat.
Axiom Verge (2015): A Metroidvania-inspired action-adventure game with pixel art and a mysterious and surreal story.
Salt and Sanctuary (2016): A 2D action RPG that combines elements of Metroidvania and Souls-like combat.
Super Meat Boy (2010): A challenging platformer with precise controls and hundreds of levels designed to test your reflexes.

Metal Slug Alternatives on Xbox Game Pass

Xbox Game Pass offers several alternatives to the classic arcade shooter Metal Slug, including:

Blazing Chrome: A fast-paced, pixel art action-platformer with retro-style gameplay.
Contra: Anniversary Collection: A compilation of four classic Contra games, featuring co-op and competitive online multiplayer.
Cuphead: The Delicious Last Course: A challenging run-and-gun platformer with beautiful 1930s-inspired animation.
Double Dragon Neon: A modernized take on the iconic beat-’em-up series, with vibrant neon graphics and over-the-top action.
Exit the Gungeon: A chaotic and fast-paced dungeon crawler with roguelike elements.

Xbox Game Pass Titles Similar to Metal Slug

Xbox Game Pass offers several titles that capture the side-scrolling, run-and-gun spirit of Metal Slug:

Metal Slug X and Metal Slug 3: The classic arcade shooters with intense action, unique weapons, and unforgettable characters.
Contra: Anniversary Collection: A compilation of legendary 2D shooters, including Contra: Hard Corps and Contra: Legacy of War.
Samurai Shodown Collection: A showcase of the iconic fighting series, featuring multiple entries with fast-paced combat and stunning pixel art.
Blazing Chrome: A neo-retro shoot-’em-up that combines the visuals of Metal Slug with the gameplay of Contra.
Cuphead: The Delicious Last Course DLC: An expansion to the award-winning platformer, adding new bosses and playable characters with similar run-and-gun mechanics.

Run and Gun Games on Xbox Game Pass Like Metal Slug

Xbox Game Pass offers an assortment of run and gun games similar to the iconic Metal Slug series. These titles feature intense arcade-style action, pixelated graphics, and a wide range of weaponry. Some notable options available on the subscription service include:

Contra Anniversary Collection: A compilation of classic Contra games, including the original arcade version and its numerous sequels.
Metal Slug 3: The acclaimed third installment in the Metal Slug franchise, known for its over-the-top action and unique characters.
Blazing Chrome: A modern take on the classic run and gun genre, featuring beautiful pixel art and a fast-paced shooting experience.
Cuphead: A challenging and visually stunning platformer with unique boss battles and a run and gun aesthetic.
Alienation: A top-down shooter set in a post-apocalyptic world, where players must fight off hordes of alien invaders.

Arcade Revivals on Xbox Game Pass

Xbox Game Pass offers a unique opportunity to relive the golden age of arcade games. Classics like Metal Slug, a beloved run-and-gun shooter, are now available for subscribers to enjoy. These arcade gems bring back the nostalgia and fast-paced action that defined the genre. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or a newcomer to these classics, Xbox Game Pass provides an exciting way to experience the thrills of the arcade at home.

Xbox Game Pass Games with Pixel Art like Metal Slug

Xbox Game Pass offers a variety of pixel art games reminiscent of the classic "Metal Slug" series. These include:

Metal Slug Tactics: A strategy RPG spin-off of the iconic franchise.
Blazing Chrome: A fast-paced run-and-gun shooter with detailed pixel graphics.
Fury Unleashed: A roguelike platformer where players control a monstrous guardian.
Cuphead: A challenging boss rush game with beautifully hand-drawn pixel art.
Skul: The Hero Slayer: A dungeon crawler with over 100 unique playable characters.
Dead Cells: A roguelike action platformer with fluid pixel animations and a high level of polish.
The Messenger: A retro-inspired platformer with a charming pixel art style and a surprising twist.

Nostalgic Xbox Game Pass Games Similar to Metal Slug

Xbox Game Pass offers a wide selection of nostalgic games that evoke the classic run-and-gun gameplay of Metal Slug. These titles provide a retro gaming experience with updated visuals and gameplay enhancements while maintaining the core elements of the iconic arcade shooter.

Challenging Games Like Metal Slug on Xbox Game Pass

Xbox Game Pass offers a wide selection of challenging games that evoke the intense gameplay of Metal Slug. These titles test players’ skills with their bullet-hell action, demanding boss battles, and punishing difficulty. Some notable examples include:

Cuphead: The Delicious Last Course: A gorgeous run-and-gun adventure with stunning art and unforgiving combat.
Dead Cells: A roguelike metroidvania with fast-paced action and a high skill ceiling.
Ori and the Blind Forest: A beautiful platformer with intricate level design and challenging bosses.
Hollow Knight: A sprawling metroidvania with a vast world to explore and powerful enemies to defeat.
Celeste: A precision platformer with progressively difficult levels that will push players to their limits.

Xbox Game Pass Games for Fans of Metal Slug

For fans of the classic run-and-gun shooter Metal Slug, Xbox Game Pass offers a selection of games that capture the frantic gameplay and explosive action of the original series:

Metal Unit (Series X/S, Xbox One): A spiritual successor to Metal Slug with similar gameplay, chaotic boss fights, and pixel art graphics.
Blazing Chrome (Series X/S, Xbox One): A retro-inspired shooter that borrows heavily from Metal Slug, featuring fast-paced shooting, power-ups, and a destructible environment.
Gunstar Heroes (Series X/S, Xbox One): A classic run-and-gun shooter from the Sega Genesis era, known for its fast-paced action and unique weapons system.
Contra Collection (Series X/S, Xbox One): A compilation of three classic Contra games, offering a similar top-down shooting experience with intense boss battles and power-ups.
Cuphead (Series X/S, Xbox One): Although not a direct Metal Slug clone, Cuphead shares a similar cartoonish art style and frantic boss fights, requiring quick reflexes and precision shooting.