The Metal Slug series is an iconic run and gun franchise that has made arcade history with its detailed graphics, frenetic gameplay, and offbeat humor. And now, all players can discover or rediscover the rich universe and creation of this series thanks to the book published by Bitmap Books: “Metal Slug: The Ultimate History”.
The publisher Bitmap Books
As this is the first book we’re talking about from this publisher, it’s customary for me to give you a little introduction, so that you can better understand what’s to come. The publishing house Bitmap Books was founded in 2014 and specializes in books about retro video games, with a clear focus on quality and aesthetics. Their books explore both software and hardware, but also the developers and studios that helped shape the industry. By diving into the highly visual archives, interviewing video game pioneers, and revealing never-before-seen development anecdotes, their publications offer a comprehensive look at the past of video games.
The packaging
I must also mention the care with which the book was packaged and protected, which is a testament to the general care that Bitmap Books takes with its publications. Far from the Amazon boxes, to which it nevertheless takes a bit of the same logic, the packaging provides foolproof protection! With 4 protective foam corners, additional packaging protecting the cover from any scratches, and finally, the last protective plastic, Bitmap Books is frankly not joking with the idea that your book arrives to you in perfect condition. And that’s nice.
The quality of publication
The publisher’s books are bound with wire for added durability and are packed with special features: metallic inks, ribbon bookmarks and varnished dust jackets, while some come with a hardboard slipcase. The book is therefore also an object and not just a container.
“Metal Slug: The Ultimate History” is an impressive book, both in size and content. With its hardcover and high-quality paper, it is a collector’s item in itself. The book is filled with detailed illustrations, concept art, sprites, and interviews, providing a comprehensive overview of the Metal Slug universe. It is a must-have for fans of the series, but also for fans of arcade games and video game art in general.
Metal Slug: The Ultimate History: A Treasure for Metal Slug Fans
The Metal Slug series was born out of a collaboration between Nazca Corporation and SNK, a company already known for titles such as “Fatal Fury” and “Art of Fighting.” The first game, simply titled “Metal Slug,” was released in 1996 on the Neo Geo arcade machines and quickly won over players with its addictive gameplay and detailed graphics. The original idea behind Metal Slug came from the imagination of the Nazca Corporation team, who wanted to create a military action game with an exaggerated cartoon style. The name “Metal Slug” refers to the powerful tanks that players can pilot in the game, becoming a formidable weapon against enemy forces.
Over the years, the Metal Slug series has evolved while maintaining the core elements that made it a success. Each new installment introduced new characters, enemies, weapons, and vehicles, while improving gameplay and adding new levels and bosses. The book offers a comprehensive look at the series’ creation, evolution, and impact, while also collecting an incredible amount of detailed artwork and illustrations.
One of the most notable aspects of the series is its detailed and colorful design. Character and enemy sprites are carefully animated, making every move and explosion visually impressive. The book “Metal Slug: The Ultimate History” explores this design process, featuring concept art and early sketches that show the development team’s ideas evolving.
The Metal Slug universe is filled with quirky characters, zany enemies, and absurd situations. The book reveals the inspiration behind some of the game’s most memorable elements, such as enemy soldiers turning into zombies or gigantic, eccentric bosses.
Each game introduced new weapons and vehicles, giving players ever more creative ways to destroy their enemies. From the iconic Metal Slug tank to planes, mechs, and chameleons, each vehicle brought its own unique set of firepower and maneuverability. Metal Slug’s end-of-level bosses became legendary for their size, complexity, and unique design. The book features an impressive gallery of these bosses, ranging from giant tanks to mythical creatures to futuristic vehicles.
“Metal Slug: The Ultimate History” is a visual and informative tribute to one of the most impactful arcade game series of all time. For Metal Slug fans, this book is a priceless treasure that allows them to delve behind the scenes of their favorite series. And for video game enthusiasts in general, it offers a fascinating glimpse into the process of creating a classic game, demonstrating the art and craft behind the pixels.
