SNK teases new Metal Slug game as franchise marks 30th anniversary

SNK Corporation has finally revealed the Metal Slug 30th anniversary project on April 20, 2026. The retrospective video released alongside the announcement covers the franchise's history across all mainline entries, from the original through Metal Slug XX, before ending with an arcade cabinet lighting up with the words "Mission Reboot" and a final message reading "A New Mission Awaits."

The anniversary website describes the initiative as an effort "to reignite and reboot the series with a wide range of exciting projects, including new ventures in gaming."

Mission Reboot: what SNK has confirmed so far

No specific titles, platforms, or release windows have been announced. The last traditional mainline Metal Slug entry was nearly 20 years ago. Additional content, including artwork, is planned across the anniversary year.

The announcement also connects to SNK's recently revealed NeoGeo AES+ hardware, which includes a special white edition bundled with a Metal Slug cartridge. A dedicated anniversary website and official X account have launched, with further announcements expected later in the year.

If the Metal Slug announcement has you in a nostalgic mood for classic gaming franchises making a comeback, Dragon Quest is already delivering on that front. Dragon Quest Smash/Grow launches on iOS and Android on April 21, bringing the 40-year-old franchise to mobile as a free roguelite RPG from Square Enix and KLabGames.

And if you are looking for something to play while you wait for more Metal Slug news, Wuthering Waves Version 3.3 lands on April 30 with six major crossover collaborations, 40 free pulls, and a brand new area to explore as the game celebrates its second anniversary.