Classic Games Database
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Metal Marines

Review
Also known as
Militia ミリティア

Command giant robots in an isometric strategy game, managing resources and defenses to conquer enemy islands.

Metal Marines was released for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) in 1993. It was developed and published by Namco, and this was the original release of the game on any platform.

About Metal Marines

Metal Marines is an isometric strategy game set on a post-apocalyptic Earth fragmented into islands. The conflict involves the player, leading Colonial Forces from orbit, against Zorgeuf the Great's Earth Empire. With conventional armies destroyed, warfare centers on the deployment of fifty-foot armored robots called Metal Marines.

Gameplay revolves around managing a base and its economy across a series of islands. The player must construct and upgrade various facilities, such as Energy Plants, Factories, and defensive structures, while protecting three underground command bases. Resource management is a constant requirement for funding these operations and for launching attacks.

Offensive actions include firing missiles, deploying Metal Marines, or launching ICBMs, each consuming different amounts of fuel. While most structures are stationary, Metal Marines operate with a degree of autonomy, engaging enemies with ranged or melee attacks once deployed, though the player can provide limited directional control. The integration of base logistics, resource allocation, and direct assault makes the strategic layer challenging.

Metal Marines Screenshots

12 images
Intro
Receiving instructions
Choosing a location for your base
Japanese Title
USA Title
The world map shows progress between battles and how much of the world has been liberated
The beginning of each mission offers a password and few options
Enemy Commanders communicate and taunt the player, at least until that option is turned off
The attack planning screen, missiles and metal marines are directed to enemy targets. Each consumes fuel
An enemy metal marine carrier, under fire from anti-aircraft missiles
A metal marine has landed and is engaging enemy forces
Cinematic sequences bring more detail to the story