Video game publisher SNK has announced that mobile free-to-play tower defense games Metal Slug Attack and Metal Slug Defense will both end their services in early 2023.

Metal Slug Attack will shut down on January 12, while Defense will cease operations on April 17.

The Steam version of Metal Slug Defense will remain unaffected by this change.

SNK hasn’t given a specific reason for the games’ closures, only stating that “various circumstances” have led to the decision to shutdown the titles. Already, in-game purchases have been disabled, and although refunds for in-game currency are not being accepted, special events will be hosted in the coming months to give players opportunities to spend their coin.

The cancellation of the online service for the two games comes ahead of the release of Metal Slug Tactics, a turn-based strategy RPG spin-off of the franchise. Originally revealed in summer 2021 and slated for release the following year, the game was eventually delayed and is currently on track for launch sometime in 2023.

The Metal Slug franchise is an acclaimed run-and-gun arcade franchise with the first entry releasing in 1996; since then, the series has seen numerous sequels and spin-offs. The games have been noteworthy for their impressive animation, fast and challenging gameplay, and quirky humor.

Have you played Metal Slug Attack or Defense? Will you miss these games, or will you be checking them out before their online play is gone for good? We want to hear you’re thoughts in the comments below, and on our social media channels!

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Source: SNK, Metal Slug Fandom