Video Game Cliches: Metal Slug's Saudi Arabia Mishaps

Metal Slug, a beloved run-and-gun video game series known for its over-the-top action and colorful cartoon aesthetic, has captured the hearts of gamers worldwide. However, one aspect of the games, particularly those set in Saudi Arabia, has come under fire for cultural insensitivity and inaccuracies.

While Metal Slug's creators intended to inject humor into their levels, the portrayal of Saudi Arabian culture often falls flat, relying on tired stereotypes and nonsensical translations that can be both offensive and bewildering.

⚔️ Cultural Cliches in a Digital Desert

Let's delve into some of the most notable examples where Metal Slug's Saudi Arabia segments stumble:

😂 Misleading Translations

• ✅ "يابان فقير" (Japan is poor) – This simple phrase, displayed in Arabic during the game, exemplifies the stereotypical portrayal of Japan as economically inferior. It lacks any nuance or context and relies on a harmful generalization.
• ✅ "كلدان" (Caldeans) – This term refers to an ancient Mesopotamian people and has no connection to Saudi Arabia. Its inclusion in the game seems arbitrary and adds to the confusion about cultural accuracy.

🤢 Food Poisoning Funhouse

Another jarring element is the depiction of restaurants serving "food poison" (مُطعم تسمم غذائي). This crude humor, while intended to be comical, perpetuates a negative stereotype about food safety in Saudi Arabia.

🏢 Misrepresenting Modern Life

Metal Slug's portrayal of shops in Saudi Arabia fails to reflect the reality of modern urban environments. The game often features traditional, seemingly outdated structures that contrast sharply with the contemporary architectural landscape found in major Saudi cities.

👳‍♂️ Stereotypical Characters

Abul Abbas, a prominent character in the games set in Saudi Arabia, is depicted as a Shia man from Iraq or Iran. His attire, particularly his turban, reinforces stereotypes about Arab and Middle Eastern cultures, overlooking the diversity within these regions.

🧐 Why Does This Matter?

While Metal Slug's gameplay remains undeniably engaging, its cultural inaccuracies and stereotypes deserve attention. Here's why:

• ✅ Representation Matters: Video games, despite their entertainment value, can influence perceptions about different cultures. When representations are inaccurate or stereotypical, it reinforces harmful biases and hinders understanding.
• ✅ Respect for Diversity: Saudi Arabia, like any country, is home to a diverse population with varying beliefs, customs, and traditions. It's crucial to acknowledge this complexity rather than resorting to simplistic and often offensive generalizations.
• ✅ Learning Opportunities: Metal Slug could have been an opportunity to educate players about Saudi Arabian culture, history, and people. By choosing to rely on stereotypes instead, it misses a chance for meaningful engagement and learning.

🌟 Moving Forward: A Call for Sensitivity

While Metal Slug's cultural missteps are regrettable, they also serve as a reminder for game developers to prioritize sensitivity and accuracy when representing different cultures.

By engaging with cultural consultants, conducting thorough research, and actively seeking feedback from diverse communities, developers can create games that are not only entertaining but also respectful and inclusive.