Metal Slug (NEOGEO AES+)

I was worried the AES+ version would feel clunky compared to modern ports, but the responsive controls and arcade-perfect difficulty curve instantly brought back that quarter-munching tension. The cartridge itself is sturdy and fits snugly, making it feel like a genuine arcade board in my hands.

The run-and-gun action is just as frantic as I remember from the arcade, and the AES+ port keeps that perfect 1996 difficulty intact. I've been playing through the first level non-stop and the sprite animation is incredibly smooth.

The cartridge art alone is worth it for any fan, but what really got me was how faithfully it captures that 1996 arcade chaos—explosions everywhere and I couldn’t put the controller down for hours. It’s the absolute best way to experience this classic run-and-gun shooter at home.