From the moment players immerse themselves in Metal Gear Solid Delta, the influence of Hideo Kojima looms large, reminiscent of The Sorrow—a character from the franchise who embodies the weight of nostalgia and loss. This remake of Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater is not just a visual upgrade; it is a journey through the emotional landscape of camaraderie and the enduring scars of conflict.
What is it? A ground-up remake of Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater, widely considered the best game in the series.
Expect to pay: / £70
Developer: Konami
Publisher: Konami
Reviewed on: Windows 11, Intel i5-12400, RTX 4060, 16GB RAM
Multiplayer? Yes, but it’s arriving as a post-launch update.
Link: Official site
As players navigate the narrative, they find themselves entwined in a tale that is both straightforward and rich in depth. Unlike its predecessors, which often veered into convoluted territory, Metal Gear Solid 3 maintains a focus on the central relationship between Snake and the Boss, even amidst discussions of the Philosopher’s Legacy and other grand themes.
Initially, the game may feel somewhat constrained, with sparse environments and extensive codec calls that can create a sense of smallness. However, as players delve deeper, they discover the intricate details that breathe life into the experience. The moment Snake crawls through a dark cave, hunting for crabs to stave off hunger, the game reveals its charm and depth.
Step on the grass!
What begins as a feeling of limitation transforms into a rediscovery of the game’s expansive possibilities. Players can experiment with the environment—throwing snakes at guards, leaving magazines as distractions, and donning a crocodile hat while swimming. The lushness of the jungle invites exploration, and the grass becomes a visual marvel, shifting and responding to movement in a way that enhances immersion.
While Metal Gear Solid Delta remains faithful to its roots, it also showcases modern enhancements. The controls have been refined, and the user interface has seen significant improvements, making gameplay more intuitive. The camouflage system, now activated with a simple button press, exemplifies this modernization.
However, some elements remain unchanged, such as the intricate wound treatment system, which can disrupt the flow of action. Yet, the thematic resonance of these mechanics—such as the visceral experience of treating injuries—adds a layer of depth that resonates throughout the gameplay.
As players navigate the challenges of stealth and combat, they are reminded that Metal Gear is as much about the consequences of being caught as it is about stealth. The game encourages a playful approach, allowing for moments of chaos and humor amidst the tension of military engagements.
You’re pretty good
On normal difficulty, players will find a balanced challenge that keeps encounters engaging without being overly punishing. The boss fights, a hallmark of Kojima’s design, shine in this remake, benefiting from stunning graphics and enhanced mechanics that elevate the intensity of each encounter.
Despite some performance hiccups during gameplay, including occasional frame drops and crashes, the overall experience remains captivating. The final stretch of the game culminates in a series of exhilarating boss fights and cinematic sequences that remind players of the franchise’s legacy.
As Metal Gear Solid Delta unfolds, it becomes clear that Konami has successfully honored the essence of the original while delivering a fresh experience. The question now lingers: what lies ahead for the franchise? With the potential for new narratives and innovations, the legacy of Metal Gear may continue to evolve, inviting both longtime fans and newcomers to explore its depths.
