Metal Gear Solid is my all-time favorite game series. I've been a fan since the original Metal Gear Solid on PS1, and it holds a special place in my heart. The series is a wild mix of serious themes and wackiness, but it always delivered richly detailed narratives and stellar graphics for its time.
Metal Gear Solid V marks a significant evolution for the franchise, fully embracing the open-world format. Unlike earlier games that were more linear, this installment nails the open-world concept, standing out from other titles in the genre. I feel like it's like a band changing its style; while the gameplay has evolved, you can still hear that signature Metal Gear charm.
The game kicks off in the mid-eighties, with you playing as Big Boss, the original Snake. The prologue takes place in a hospital where your character wakes up from a long coma. I found this segment tense and well-paced, serving as an effective introduction to the plot and characters. I haven't understood the critique this prologue received-it's gripping, even if it is more linear.
Once you're thrown into the open world-set in either Afghanistan or Angola-you're free to tackle missions however you like. Want to go in guns blazing? Go for it. Prefer to be stealthy? That's an option too. There's a breadth of options from utilizing vehicles to setting traps or even kidnapping enemies to bring back to your base. I leaned heavily towards stealth, creeping around enemy camps and absorbing the satisfying thrill of being unseen.
One of the things that set Metal Gear games apart is their memorable characters. I noticed that MGS V has fewer characters compared to previous entries, which resulted in a more streamlined cast. I actually didn't mind this shift; the characters that remain are compelling. Quiet, in particular, grew on me even though she doesn't speak. The focus of the narrative revolves around themes of national identity and belonging, giving it depth beyond just action and stealth.
Speaking of voice acting, I was initially apprehensive about Kiefer Sutherland replacing David Hayter as Snake; it was hard to imagine anyone else in that role. Thankfully, Sutherland does not disappoint. His performance, though somewhat limited in dialogue, shines, especially in emotional scenes. The rest of the cast also brings their characters to life wonderfully.
Visually, the game is stunning-even nearly ten years later, it looks fantastic, running smoothly even on PS4. The graphics engine is a loss to see retired, given its impressive detail. The sound design and music are top-notch, adding to the cinematic quality that the series is known for.
Metal Gear Solid V offers a mix of main missions and side content, some of which adds depth to the game's overall plot. While I enjoyed diving into side missions, I noticed that they sometimes overlap with main mission areas, which slightly dulled the anticipation. And I found the repeat Konami credits jarring whenever I began a new mission-oddly distracting.
The story itself, while strong, showcases signs of the well-documented turmoil during development due to Hideo Kojima's departure from Konami. This left me feeling a bit off-kilter by the end, especially since the game closes after about 60 hours of play.
While it didn't achieve the commercial heights Konami had hoped for, Metal Gear Solid V is still a remarkable game, with millions of copies sold. Here's hoping the upcoming Metal Gear 3 remake breathes new life into the series; a new MGS title would be the cherry on top.
Overall, I give Metal Gear Solid V a 9/10. It's a unique experience that successfully balances innovation and the essence of what made Metal Gear Solid great to begin with.
