Aeria Games announces Metal Assault, an upcoming free-to-play, side-scrolling multiplayer shooter that's expected to enter closed beta testing this spring. Word is: "Developed by GNI Soft, Metal Assault is a fast-paced massively multiplayer online (MMO) 2D shooter that promises to win over hardcore and casual players alike with a sizable helping of exciting player-versus-player (PvP) and player-versus-environment (PvE) game modes. As an R.O.C. Operative, players will be able to explore the City of HERZ, run and gun across 12 dangerous maps and go on a series of gun-blazing assignments to unravel the mystery behind the explosion at R.O.C. HQ and the disappearance of the famed Professor Russell." The Metal Assault Website has details, screenshots, a gameplay trailer, and is accepting signups for the closed beta test.