The latest installment in the Metal Slug series was announced just recently for Japan. However, what's more surprising is the ESRB's alacrity in listing it. Perhaps this can be taken as an indication for a simultaneous release.

SNK wouldn’t pass on releasing a Metal Slug game here so it’s not a *huge* surprise to see Metal Slug XX rated by the ESRB.

I just didn’t think we would hear anything about it so quickly. Metal Slug XX was just announced in Japan with a December 23 release date. Maybe, we’ll get it around then too.

The other unusual detail about Metal Slug XX’s US release is SNK, not Ignition, is listed as the publisher. Ignition has been responsible for all of SNK’s retail games like The King of Fighters XII and Metal Slug 7 – which Metal Slug XX appears to be based on. Perhaps, Metal Slug XX will be a digital only game since SNK is still credited as the publisher for games like The King of Fighters ‘98: Ultimate Match.

McClubbin via siliconera.com »