Metal Max

Classic Post-Apocalyptic RPG Adventure

Experience the pioneering open-world RPG that combines turn-based combat with a unique vehicle system, originally released for the Famicom in 1991.

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What is Metal Max?

Discover the legendary post-apocalyptic RPG series

Metal Max is a pioneering open-world RPG developed by Crea-Tech and Data East, originally released for the Famicom (NES) in Japan in 1991. This post-apocalyptic adventure combines turn-based combat with a unique vehicle system, establishing itself as one of the earliest non-linear RPGs with complete player freedom.

Metal Max captures the authentic feel of classic Japanese RPGs from the golden era of 8-bit gaming. Experience the nostalgic pixel graphics, strategic turn-based gameplay, and memorable chiptune soundtrack that made early console RPGs legendary in gaming history.

Category: RPG | Style: Retro Console | Genre: Post-Apocalyptic

Metal Max classic post-apocalyptic RPG game screenshot showing tank combat and pixel art graphics

How To Play

Getting started with Metal Max

To begin your Metal Max journey, press Start to enter the game. Use the directional keys to move your character through this post-apocalyptic world. Press A to interact with objects and people, and B to cancel actions or access the menu. Combat is turn-based - select your actions from the menu when encountering enemies. You can fight on foot or using tanks, which offer greater firepower and protection. Collect and customize various tanks throughout your adventure, upgrading their weapons and defenses to tackle stronger enemies.

1

Movement

Use directional keys to navigate the wasteland.

2

Interaction

Press A to talk to NPCs and interact with objects.

3

Combat

Select actions from the menu during turn-based battles.

4

Tank Customization

Collect and upgrade tanks to enhance your combat abilities.

Game Features

What makes Metal Max a revolutionary RPG

Open World Exploration

One of the earliest open-world RPGs with no predetermined story path, allowing players to complete missions in any order they choose.

Vehicle System

Unique tank customization mechanics where players can collect, modify and upgrade various vehicles to enhance combat capabilities.

Non-linear Gameplay

Players can end the game at any time, change the ending through their actions, and even continue playing after the ending.

Turn-based Combat

Classic RPG battle system where players can fight either on foot or using tanks.

Story & Setting

Explore the post-apocalyptic world of Metal Max

World Setting

Set in a future post-apocalyptic world where human civilization has collapsed due to a supercomputer called Noah. Survivors gather in underground villages and ruins, while "Monster Hunters" battle against monsters and outlaws in the wasteland. Despite its post-apocalyptic setting, the world still features abundant trees and water sources, unlike many similar titles with more desolate environments.

Key Characters

Hunter

The protagonist, a young man who dreams of becoming a monster hunter

Mechanic

A young man who hopes to travel the world and become a great tank mechanic

Soldier

A tough female character who hopes to surpass her rival Red Wolf

Dad

A strict tank mechanic who has severed ties with his son due to his unrealistic ambitions

Red Wolf

A mysterious hunter who drives a bright red tank

Noah

The main antagonist and final boss, a supercomputer and rogue AI that initiated "The Great Destruction"

Obtainable Vehicles

Mosquito

Light tank found in the cave south of Riorado

Buggy

Fast attack vehicle found in the factory on the east coast of Pobre Obre

Van

Ambulance found in the abandoned hospital west of Rocco

Panther/Tiger

WWII medium tank found in the beach cave east of Freeza

LAV

Armored personnel carrier found in Sol City

Tiger/Abrams

WWII heavy tank/main battle tank purchased in Port Slum southeast of Audrey

Red Wolf

Modified main battle tank found in Gomez's secret waterfall base southwest of Santa Poco

King Tiger/White Muu

Another modified WWII heavy tank/next-generation main battle tank parked at the abandoned Ghost base north of Canabelle

Gameplay System

Metal Max features classic RPG gameplay: characters travel from town to town, encountering random enemies and constantly upgrading items and tanks. The goal is to become a renowned and respected hunter by defeating bounty monsters, with these missions completable in any order the player prefers.

The game contains rich storylines, but since players aren't forced to follow them, they must actively seek them out. A major part of the game involves customizing tanks: tank parts can be purchased or discovered, and both parts and the tanks themselves can be modified. Players use the BS Controller (BS-Con), a personal computer system, to track data on towns, tanks, bounties, and experience points.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Metal Max

What makes Metal Max unique among RPGs?

Metal Max was revolutionary for its time as one of the earliest open-world RPGs with complete player freedom. Its unique vehicle system, non-linear gameplay, and post-apocalyptic setting with a focus on tank combat set it apart from other RPGs of its era.

How do I get started with Metal Max?

Begin by exploring the starting town and talking to NPCs to get a feel for the game world. Focus on acquiring your first tank early, as vehicles are essential for survival in the wasteland. Complete bounty hunts to earn money for upgrades, and don't be afraid to explore freely - the game encourages non-linear progression.

Is Metal Max available in English?

The original Famicom version was only released in Japanese. However, fan translations have made the game accessible to English-speaking players. The embedded version on this site uses the Japanese version, so some knowledge of Japanese or familiarity with RPG conventions may be helpful.

Are there sequels to Metal Max?

Yes, Metal Max spawned a successful franchise with multiple sequels including Metal Max 2, Metal Max 3, Metal Max 4, and Metal Max Xeno. The series has appeared on various platforms including Super Famicom, PlayStation, Nintendo DS, and more recent consoles.