Metal Slug, SNK’s beloved run ’n’ gun title, celebrated its 30th anniversary earlier this week, on April 19, 2026, and yesterday (April 20, 206), SNK announced the launch of its Metal Slug 30th anniversary project, which it says: “aims to reignite and reboot the Metal Slug franchise through numerous initiatives, including the development of new games.”

SNK said: “The Metal Slug series has been running-and-gunning for the past three decades, launching in arcades on April 19, 1996, with the iconic Metal Slug. This NEOGEO classic garnered acclaim for its simple controls, frantic run-and-gun action, and vibrant pixel art. SNK has continued this winning combination with numerous sequels and spin-offs ever since, expanding the franchise’s unique, comical world.”

SNK has opened a special anniversary website and dedicated social media accounts to commemorate Metal Slug’s anniversary. A slew of celebratory content will roll out over the coming months.

With these 30th anniversary celebrations of Metal Slug and the recently announced revival of its NEOGEO AES home console, on which we reported previously, SNK really is making the most of its impressive back catalog of retro goodness, and we look forward to seeing what it has in store for Metal Slug fans over the rest of the year.