ZephyrosX

Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots (2008)

The best game of 2008

When first hearing of this title at E3 2005, I was ecstatic. Firstly, it was announced that this would be the last Metal Gear game featuring one of gaming history's greatest protagonists, Solid Snake. Secondly, it would be the last Metal Gear title to involve Hideo Kojima, the great mind behind this great series. I can honestly say that this is one of the few games I have played that went beyond the hype granted it.

The game begins 5 years after the events of Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty. The world which we last saw at MGS2's finale has changed drastically. This new world has been ruined by war, orchestrated by the mysterious Patriots. Solid Snake, now known as Old Snake, has changed as well. He is now a pessimistic, old, and dying hero. Also returning are Dr. Hal 'Otacon' Emmerich, Col. Roy Campbell, Raiden, Meryl Silverburgh, Dr. Naomi Hunter, EVA a.k.a. Big Mama, Rosemary, and the legendary soldier himself, Big Boss. I was one of the few people who disliked the idea of Big Boss possibly returning, but Kojima's writing and cinematic genius make the legendary soldier's return one of the highest points in the game. I'm glad this idea came to fruition.

And, of course, we learn who the Patriots are; Big Boss, Major Zero, EVA, Ocelot, Para-Medic (Dr. Clark), and Sigint (Donald Anderson). Not a bad twist at all, personally speaking. Going back now on the clues given to us in MGS3 and MPO, it's not really a shocker.

This game introduces a new form of stealth gameplay; the war zone. As in previous MGS titles, the player had to stealthily make his or her way through various obstacles without being detected by the enemy. In this one, the same goes, however, the player must now do it on the battlefield while opposing factions do their best to outdo the other side, all while you must make it through without detection. The difficulty level has been raised on this reason alone. We are also introduced to a new aiming system, the familiar over-the-shoulder view. The player can also alternate to first person aiming if they so wish, and at times, it helps.

The new psych meter also plays greatly into the gameplay. Enough stress will greatly effect Snake's performance on the battlefield. Shade helps, as does the Syringe which suppresses his nanomachine activity. This comes in great assistance when on the battlefield when your psych is slipping, or if you want an 'energy boost' of sorts that will help Snake get the job done. Another great concept brought into this game is the ability to align yourself with the rebels of Acts 1 and 2. It isn't necessary to do so, but it helps. Or, if you're like me, you can align yourself with no one and make the game that much more challenging. Being spotted by the rebels, like the PMC, will trigger an alert, so take caution.

And the other great part about this game is the Octocamo. It comes in handy when stealthily making your way across the war zone when you're trying to avoid being found. Or if you really want to be challenged, deactivate it in the in-game menu. However, I don't know anyone crazy enough to do that. The Mk. II is also a fun little gadget that you can use to assist you, for various reasons. For example, zapping enemies when low on ammo, or creating distractions when needing to pass an area swarming with PMC or rebels. Drebin points are a great addition that allow you to upgrade your weapons, or purchase ammo or supplies.

The only gripes I have with this game are not enough codec contactees (Otacon and Rosemary are your only available contacts) and the Meryl-Johnny relationship. I think it would have been better, for me at least, if the two were already engaged from the beginning, which could have added the tension between Snake and Meryl.

All in all, this is hands down the game of the year, in my humble opinion. It does its best to go past the hype given to it. In any case, this is good since so many didn't expect much, but were given tons.

After getting your fair share of Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots, you'll be saying Grand Theft What?