METAL GEAR & METAL GEAR 2: Solid Snake
" Pioneering action stealth games with innovative mechanics but clunky, outdated controls "
METAL GEAR & METAL GEAR 2: Solid Snake Review
Metal Gear and Metal Gear 2: Solid Snake are foundational titles in the stealth-action genre, offering a glimpse into the origins of one of gaming's most iconic franchises. While the original Metal Gear introduces revolutionary stealth mechanics for its time, it features clunky controls and a high difficulty level that may frustrate modern players. The sequel, Metal Gear 2, significantly improves on gameplay complexity, storytelling, and mechanics, showcasing early Kojima hallmarks like intricate enemy AI, cinematic moments, and philosophical themes.
These games are best appreciated by fans invested in the series' lore and those interested in gaming history. However, they demand patience due to outdated mechanics, heavy backtracking, and a lack of modern conveniences like fast travel or save states. The pixel art and 8-bit graphics hold nostalgic charm but may feel primitive to new players. Overall, Metal Gear 2 stands out as the more compelling and accessible experience today, while the original remains a tough but important classic.
Highlights
Gameplay mechanics are praised for pioneering stealth elements such as sneaking, evasion, and tactical thinking over direct combat. Metal Gear 2 enhances this with better enemy AI, sound detection, and more complex level design.
Storyline in Metal Gear 2 is lauded for its emotional depth and philosophical themes, laying groundwork for the narrative style Kojima would perfect later.
Graphics retain classic 8-bit pixel art charm that appeals to retro enthusiasts and fans of the series' origins.
Criticisms
Common criticisms include clunky and outdated controls, especially in the first Metal Gear, which can lead to frustration. The games require significant patience due to tedious backtracking and cryptic level design without in-game guidance or fast travel.
The Steam port offers no modern enhancements like save states or improved resolution, which some players find underwhelming. The difficulty can be unfair, and some players recommend using guides to mitigate frustration.
Pros
- • Pioneering stealth gameplay mechanics that influenced the entire genre.
- • Metal Gear 2 offers improved complexity and engaging storytelling.
- • Strong narrative with emotional and philosophical depth in the sequel.
- • Classic 8-bit pixel art retains nostalgic appeal.
- • Faithful emulation preserving original game experience.
- • Innovative enemy AI and sound detection in Metal Gear 2.
- • Multiple radio characters providing in-game assistance.
Cons
- • Clunky, outdated controls especially in the original Metal Gear.
- • High difficulty and unfair challenge may frustrate players.
- • Tedious backtracking with no fast travel system.
- • Lack of modern features like save states or enhanced graphics.
- • Steam port is a barebones emulation without improvements.
- • Some players find the original game less enjoyable today.
- • Cryptic puzzles requiring external guides to progress.
Rating Criteria
The first and second title in the METAL GEAR series that established the stealth action genre, as well as the basic mechanics of the series.