Contra III: The Alien Wars vs Metal Slug 3
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
The title is famed for its challenging bosses, diverse weapon upgrades, and responsive controls that let you fire in any direction while navigating complex platforming sections. Its vibrant graphics and relentless difficulty have made it a standout entry in the Contra series.
Metal Slug 3 delivers fast‑paced, side‑scrolling shooter action that builds on the beloved series’ signature humor and over‑the‑top explosions. Players blast through diverse environments, rescue hostages, and collect an arsenal of wild weapons while enjoying crisp pixel art and a catchy retro soundtrack. The game supports both solo and cooperative play, letting friends team up locally or online to tackle branching paths, massive boss encounters, and hidden secrets. Its blend of arcade intensity and comedic sci‑fi themes makes it a timeless staple for action‑shooter fans.
- Fast‑paced, addictive gameplay
- Huge variety of weapons and power‑ups
- Memorable boss designs
- Co‑op split‑screen support
- Highly replayable with multiple level paths
- Extensive weapon variety keeps combat fresh
- Co‑op mode enhances social gaming experience
- Retro graphics and soundtrack evoke classic arcade feel
- High difficulty may deter newcomers
- Limited save system by modern standards
- Original release only on SNES hardware
- Limited to two‑player co‑op, no larger multiplayer options
- Some difficulty spikes may frustrate casual players
- Original release platform constraints affect modern controller support
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The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataBoth games cost $19.99 and offer classic run‑and‑gun co‑op, but Contra III adds wall‑climbing, split‑screen and higher critic scores, while Metal Slug 3 provides branching levels and more replay value.
Key differences
- •Contra III lets players climb walls/ceilings for hidden areas; Metal Slug 3 does not.
- •Metal Slug 3 features branching level routes that increase replayability; Contra III has a linear progression.
- •Contra III supports split‑screen co‑op; Metal Slug 3 offers co‑op but no split‑screen mention.
- •Critic scores differ: Contra III 85/100 vs Metal Slug 3 82/100.
- •Metal Slug 3 includes a robust scoring system and secret weapons; Contra III focuses on varied boss designs.
Gameplay & fun factor
Contra III’s wall‑climbing, eight‑directional shooting and varied boss fights create richer tactical play.
Platform availability
Metal Slug 3, released in 2000, is less tied to a single retro console than Contra III’s SNES‑only origin.
Price & value
Both are priced identically at $19.99 with one‑time purchase.
Multiplayer / co‑op
Contra III offers split‑screen co‑op, allowing two players to share a single screen; Metal Slug 3 lacks this.
Content & replayability
Metal Slug 3’s branching routes and scoring system encourage multiple playthroughs.
Difficulty & accessibility
Metal Slug 3’s difficulty spikes are noted but its T rating may be more approachable than Contra III’s E10+ with high difficulty.
Graphics & performance
Metal Slug 3 highlights pixel‑perfect animation and detailed backgrounds, while Contra III’s graphics are limited to SNES hardware.
Choose Contra III: The Alien Wars if…
Fans who want tactical movement, split‑screen co‑op, and higher critical acclaim.
Choose Metal Slug 3 if…
Players seeking branching levels, high replay value, and more modern arcade feel.
Common questions
Do both games support two‑player co‑op?
Yes; Contra III uses split‑screen, Metal Slug 3 supports simultaneous two‑player co‑op without split‑screen.
Which game offers more replayability?
Metal Slug 3, thanks to branching level routes and a scoring system that rewards repeated play.
Are there any differences in age rating?
Contra III is rated ESRB E10+, while Metal Slug 3 is rated ESRB T.