Reviewed on PlayStation 4

Video games are fun. Let’s remember that for just a sec. Back in 2004, Xbox owners in Japan were treated to a From Software game that’s nothing like what you would expect from the studio these days. Metal Wolf Chaos was fast, over-the-top, and hilarious. It’s since been enjoyed by larger audiences thanks to importing and YouTube playthroughs. And now, we have Metal Wolf Chaos XD, a re-release of the game for consoles and PC published by Devolver Digital. It’s fun. It’s so damn fun.

You Are the President of These United States, and You Take No Guff

Metal Wolf Chaos XD gives an accurate depiction of United States patriotism. That was a joke. The game is totally bonkers, and its portrayal of American pride is hilarious. The whole thing has a distinct Japanese vibe to it, and it’s impossible not to enjoy the parody of Americana the game so gleefully puts on display.

You play as President Michael Wilson, who discovers he’s been betrayed by Vice President Richard Hawk. In an attempt to take control of the Land of the Free, Hawk orchestrates a coup that vilifies President Michael Wilson while painting the Vice President as an American hero. This is 1980s-level action movie stuff, and it’s incredible.

Oh, and I’ll never get tired of hearing Wilson scream, “Richaaaaard!”

Made in the USA

More in line with the Armored Core series, Metal Wolf Chaos XD puts you in the cockpit of a giant mechanized bot. You can equip your mech with shotguns, sniper rifles, assault rifles, pistols, rocket launchers, and more. There are over 100 weapon options available, most of which you unlock as you play.

Missions mostly consist of you blowing up bad guys. That’s it. That’s literally it. You’re usually surrounded by dozens of on-foot soldiers, armed aircraft, and rival mechs, and it’s your goal — no, it’s your duty as President of these United States — to blow all those suckers up.

The controls in Metal Wolf Chaos XD work well. Aiming isn’t insanely accurate, but most of the time what you’re pointing at before you shoot will blow up. This game is super arcade-y, and though it certainly feels like something from 2004, it holds up exceptionally well and provides a great deal of in-your-face action.

The graphics are probably the game’s weakest point, and it would’ve been interesting to see Metal Wolf Chaos rebuilt from the ground up, but given how well it plays, I can’t complain too much. Yes, it looks pretty dated, but there’s an old school charm to it.

The sound design is especially awesome. Honestly, the voice acting is kind of bad, but that’s what makes it so amazing. Your secretary constantly chimes in with quick remarks like, “Who invited them to the party?” The news reporter is in full-on alarmist mode when he talks about how terrible the President is. And Mr. Michael Wilson, well, I can’t get enough of him when he says he’s going to turn his enemies into perforated cheese. Oh, and once again: “Richaaaard!”

The Legends Were True

Much remains unchanged in Metal Wolf Chaos XD. The game still looks and plays largely the same, though the improved resolution and speeds certainly make the whole thing look and feel smoother than ever. More than anything, though, Metal Wolf Chaos XD is a hell of a good time. It’s hilarious, it’s easy to pick up and play, it’s got a nice level of challenge, and it’s just a whole lot of fun. If you were always curious about this early From Software gem, give it a look. You won’t be disappointed.

Score: 7.5 out of 10

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