Release: June 12th, 2008

console: PlayStation 3

eyefire Rating - 10 /10

If I had one word to describe Metal Gear Solid 4: The Guns of the Patriots… it would be EPIC.  I am a huge fan of the series and have never missed a single release date.  So when this game came out I couldn’t have been more pleased.  Nothing about this game let me down. 

Story -

MGS4 is set five years after the Big Shell incident, in 2014.  The world has apparently, for lack of better term, gone to shit.  The world’s militaries are outnumbered by Private Military Companies (PMCs) and for the most part, the global economy relies heavily on a state of constant war.  In the midst of all the global turmoil, Liquid Ocelot has some evil plans up his sleeve and there is only one man that can save the world from its imminent demise.  Colonel Campbell calls on Snake to take out Liquid Ocelot for one more final mission!  Is there really a better setting for our most beloved hero Solid Snake?  Well Snake isn’t so young anymore and he certainly is feeling solid either.  Due to the gift that keeps on giving, FoxDie, his body is aging rapidly.  So the bottom line is that Snake, now Old Snake, will go back into action and track down Liquid Ocelot and terminate his crazy ass.  Throughout the game you receive mission support from long time pal Otacon.  Also, Sunny, Olga’s missing daughter makes an appearance.  Apparently, Raiden was sent by the Patriots to find her and she is now hanging with Otacon in the Nomad.  The Nomad is this customized C-17 cargo airship. 

Some will argue the story is overly complex.  I disagree and would say that it has found that perfect balance… far from the convoluted story line of MGS2.  Mr. Kojima kept all his promises by answering all of our nagging questions… and managed to close the loop on everything we ever wondered about the world MGS.  This being the final installment in this already epic saga, it is very fulfilling… being able to finally understand some of the things that have kept us puzzled for two decades.  The story is told in true Kojima fashion and no expense is spared in telling that story.  This game boasts some serious cut scene action.  I am not totally sure of the exact time, but I would guess there is somewhere between 4 or 5 hours of cinematics alone.  This should not be anything new considering the amount of cut scenes in the past titles.  This is key however because this is the last game and A LOT of holes needed to be filled. 

Kojima has delivered a script that should be Oscar material.  The ability to draw the player in and help them develop this unseen bond and connection with the Old Snake is remarkable.  You know the odds are stacked against Old Snake and you know that it will take every ounce of life in him to beat those odds… and so you are in on this adventure with him.  You are with him during every realization, every stab in the back, every loss and every victory.  If you don’t walk away after beating this game and it hasn’t touched you emotional somehow, then you are not human.  The story and how it unfolds is way better than a lot of movies you see on the big screen today.  At the beginning of the game Old Snake finds himself in the Middle East.  There’s a war going on there and you are literally dropped into it.  One thing that is unique about this game is that you find yourself now in the middle of a war between PMCs and the local militia.  What is really interesting is how you decide to approach and eventually tackle these levels.  Do you sneak through to your objective and ignore both the militia and the PMCs?  Do you fight alongside the militia?  Or do you fight everyone?  Depending on your decision, the game will unfold differently.  Fore example, if you help the militia, they will befriend you.  If you attack them, they will undoubtedly attack you on sight through out the game. 

Eventually you meet up with Rat Patrol 01 and it is led by the fiery, not so green, Meryl.  The hot little red head niece of Colonel Campbell makes her return to the MGS world.  She is running a squad of commandos that are looking for Liquid Ocelot as well.  After a brief re-union and firefight, Old Snake and Meryl part ways, but later meet again.  Throughout the course of the game you visit several different regions around the globe.  All very diverse in their environments.  This made the story even better and was great to have missions in more than just one or two locations.  At the end of the South American level, the gamer gets treated to a super cool fight between Raiden and Vamp.  It’s a cut scene and looks amazing.  Raiden makes his triumphant return and deals a little whoop ass to everyone’s favorite immortal Vamp.  After sneaking around (or kicking butt) in South America and Europe, you will find yourself in a very familiar place.  That is if you a fan of past MGS titles.  One of my favorite parts of the game was the level that takes Old Snake back to Shadow Moses Island and the Nuclear Disposal Facility.  If you played the original MGS for the PSone, then this level will invoke some strong nostalgic memories.  When the level starts you are a few hundred feet away from where MGS started.  After sneaking around past a Gekko, you come over a hill that overlooks the entrance into the facility.  As you walk down, the original theme song from MGS plays in the background.  You also have some old voice over flashbacks from the original game too.  This was my absolute favorite part of the game.  Being able to tackle Shadow Moses again in a different time and under different circumstances was awesome.  And best of all, at the end of this level, you get to do what we’ve always wanted… fight inside a Metal Gear.  That’s right; you get to navigate around during a mini boss fight against Liquid Ocelot.  At the conclusion of your mission at Shadow Moses you run into Mei Ling… she is now the Captain of the USS Missouri, a naval warship.  With her help, you and the Rat Patrol board the massive submersible ship called Outer Haven.  Outer Haven is Liquid Ocelot’s ultimate warship.  Without getting into too much detail, Old Snake manages to maneuver through Outer Haven’s internal defenses and uploads a virus that sabotages and destroys Outer Haven’s AI.  After successfully stopping Liquid Ocelot’s plan… there remains only one thing left to do.  Take out Liquid Ocelot.  After a great deal of cut scenes and explanation of events, you find yourself standing face to face with Liquid Ocelot to settle some business hand to hand combat style. 

After that final fight you get a ton of cinematics that eventually tie up all the loose ends and finally brings some closure to Old Snake.  There are some serious revelations there at the end so skipping through these cut scenes is not advisable.  One of the last cut scenes you see Sunny, who is Olga’s daughter, frying some eggs in a skillet.  She mentions they look like the sun.  She says “they are rising again”.  I believe this to be a nod to the next upcoming MGS title, Metal Gear Solid Rising… nice little touch.  Overall, MGS4 is a brilliant game.  It is very long and full of details, but every moment spent playing or watching is time well spent.  If you have played any of the past games and have had questions… this game does a spectacular job of answering everything.

Drebin Points -

Through out the game you will be picking up weapons from downed enemies.  The problem with this is, the weapons are locked and can only be used by the enemy that dropped it.  Basically it is some type of biological lock that prevents any and everyone from just picking up and using it.  This is where Drebin comes in.  Drebin is a smooth talking weapons launderer.  He takes weapons that you find on the battlefield and unlocks them so that Old Snake can use them.  But much like the real world, nothing is free.  By selling duplicate weapons you accrue something called Drebin points.  These points can be used to unlock weapons you find on the battlefield or to purchase ammo.  At first glance, the point system seems awkward, but after getting into the game things start smoothing out, the system proves to be sharp.  Some weapon types are very pricey so it will take a while to save up.  Fortunately, once you beat the game, your Drebin points carry over into a new game so after clearing the game a few times; you could reasonably have every weapon at your disposal.  It takes a bit getting used to, but overall the point system is a nice addition to the MGS game play.

Boss Fights -

In this installment of MGS, you will find yourself matched up against some of the most interesting bosses seen to date in the series.  Throughout your mission you will encounter a group of baddies known as the Beauty and the Beast Corps (BBC), four female soldiers suffering from PTSD, who are hell bent on killing Old Snake.  There names will sound familiar to those who are fans of MGS1.  The BBC is comprised of Laughing Octopus, Raging Raven, Crying Wolf and Screaming Mantis.  The names certainly ring a bell as they partially taken from the bosses in the original title for the PSone.  Each have their own unique way to defeat them and prove to be challenging.  They each tie into the story line in their own respect and after defeating each, you will get a call from Drebin, who will give you some background information on each one.  The boss fights consist of two phases.  The first is in what is called the “Beast” form.  This is basically when they are in their armor suits.  The second phase occurs after you drain them of their life or stamina and they shed their suits.  This second phase is referred to as the “Beauty” form.  From here you can either kill them or drain their stamina by using tranquilizers darts.  The boss fights occur at just the right times in the story and are spread out evenly.  You get plenty of regular mission action in between each boss fight with just the right amount of story line to go a long with it.  In this type of game, the boss fights can really make or break the experience, but Kojima and his team really did an outstanding job at creating new baddies and implementing them as well.

Graphics -

When it comes to video game graphics, MGS4 sets the standard for the PS3.  The game developers have taken the PS3’s power and abilities and definitely put them to use.  Everything from the cut-scenes to the actual game play looks beautiful and realistic.  In the opening sequence of the game and on through out each level, it is obvious that a major effort was put forth in making each level as detailed as humanly possible.  By far, this installment of the Metal Gear Solid saga has the most geographically scattered levels.  You find yourself guiding Old Snake throughout many locations around the world to include the crowded urban areas of the Middle East, hilly and mountainous regions of South America, the dark corners of some European city and aboard the massive vessel known as Outer Haven.  Also, for the fans of the series, expect a pleasantly exceptional moment of nostalgia as you find yourself back at the blizzard ravaged carcass of what we knew as the Shadow Moses Nuclear Disposal Facility.  To put it simply, the graphics are down right gorgeous.  This time around Old Snake has in his arsenal what is called OctoCamo.  It is basically type of sneaking suit that allows him to instantly blend into his surrounding environments by simply touching any surface.  Whether crawling through tall grass or edging yourself along side a wall… you can bet that OctoCamo will match its surface flawlessly.  One particular graphical feat worth mentioning is the lighting.  During your trek through South America your mission starts sometime at dawn.  As the sun breaks and begins spreading light over the terrain, it almost takes your breath away because of how realistic it looks.  I have never played a game that has mastered the ability to spread light and shadows as well as MGS4 does, especially during the South American level.  Another advancement in the graphics department is the overall character designs.  Old Snake looks fantastic.  There is tons of detail in the suit and in the variety of weapons he wields.  The level of detail put into your enemies has been ramped up too.  With the different enemies you encounter through out the game, each has its own distinct look.  This only adds to the eye candy while you maneuver through the entire game.  One thing that rarely gets mentioned when reviewing graphics is the heads up display (HUD) or the pause menu.  The HUD doesn’t get too crowded and displays exactly what you need.  Minimal, but very effective.  When you pause the game, you will find a very streamlined options and game menu.  The presentation of the necessary items, weapons, etc. looks really sharp.  It has a very technical look to it that has obviously been tweaked for maximum user interaction.  My overall impression on the graphics side of the house for MGS4 is nothing short of spectacular.  It is apparent that Mr. Kojima and his skilled game development team have ensured that this final episode of the MGS saga spared no expense in making sure that it’s graphical presentation was first class.  The bottom line is that this game is the best looking game I have ever seen for ANY system.  The graphics are superior!

Soundtrack -

One of the most important aspects of gaming for me is the musical score, voice acting and sound effects in the game.  These elements can seriously break a game’s experience if they are not sharp.  MGS4 nails all these elements down flawlessly.  The first thing to note is the beautifully crafted musical score for the game.  Harry Gregson-Williams comes through again for the final installment of this beloved classic series and certainly out does himself in creating the soundtrack.  If you are a returning fan of the series, then you will undoubtedly know that the MGS series is known for its outstanding music.  From the opening to the final credits, the music has an enormous role in creating the unique atmosphere in the game.  The musical score sets the town for each level and the tone will change dramatically from one moment to the next.  Slow and somber piano notes can be heard as you sneak through the city streets of Europe only to be interrupted by an upbeat tempo if your presence is detected by the enemy.  This subtle transition is perfect and does so almost effortlessly.  Depending on the environment and situation you find yourself in, the background music blends in perfectly and balances itself with the game play.  Every installment since the first MGS on the PSone has had a beautiful theme song that encompasses the whole idea and concept of the game.  MGS4 is no exception and in fact, I believe that the theme song for this one is the best.  The theme song is called “Here’s to You” performed by Lisbeth Scott.  Mr. Kojima could not have chosen a better song or singer to perform this final theme song.  The song itself is very befitting of our hero Old Snake.  The emotional tone and overpowering lyrics of this song so perfectly fit this game.  Unfortunately, you are not treated with this song until after the final completion of the game; however it is well worth the wait.  Hearing this song at any other moment in the game would have not did it justice.  It shows up at the conclusion of this epic story and adds a final note to this old hero who has sacrificed nearly everything for his country.  The song is very emotional and can strike a spot deep within your heart.  Another hard hitting song that you hear during the game is called “Love Theme” by Jackie Prestie.  The particular tone for this one is a bit sad.  You encounter this song nearly at the end of the game when Old Snake is facing some very difficult circumstances.  It plays into the situation beautifully and definitely compliments the tone of the game at the specific moment.  Another element that can lend to the balance of a game, or wreak havoc, is the voice acting.  Most of the veteran voice actors from past MGS installments make a return to see this last episode off into gaming history.  Most notably is David Hayter, the voice of Old Snake.  He has been with the series since its debut on the PSone.  He has upped the ante a bit and really came through with a stand up performance for the aged and dying Old Snake.  His voice is raspy and has the crackling sound that you would expect to hear from someone in Old Snake’s shape.  His voice acting in this game, and past games, is nothing short of legendary.  If they ever make a Metal Gear Solid movie… they better employ David Hayter because there is no one else on earth that can do Snake like him!  We also see voice actors returning for the series including Octacon, The Colonel, Raiden, Vamp, Liquid Ocelot and also some past forgotten favorites, Meryl, Mei Ling and Naomi from MGS1 return to lend a hand.  Overall, the voice acting for this game is what it has been for the past games in the series; the voice acting team does a superb job.  For many years all these people have worked together on this series and it certainly shows through the quality of the voice acting and the unmistakable chemistry amongst them.  The last element on the sound side of the game may not be terribly important to some gamers, but it is definitely a key element for me.  Especially if it is not done correctly.  What does an M-4 carbine sound like when fired?  What about if it has a suppressor on it?  What noise does a Javelin make when fired and impacts?  What about something as insignificant as the sound of a magazine being loaded in the magazine well of a pistol?  If you have ever found yourself asking these questions, then MGS4 is the place to find out.  I have fired a variety of different weapons in real life and I can say that each have their own distinct sound for every action.  Loading the magazine, chambering a round, fire the round and its impact all create a unique sound.  Mr. Kojima and the game design team have gone through great lengths to ensure that these little sounds are as authentic and realistic as possible.  It may not seem like much, but the devil is in the details.  It is all about streamlining these seemingly insignificant details and making them so smooth that it just seems natural.  The MGS4 team has done this inside out and with every piece of equipment and weapon in the entire game.

Controls -

As with any good game, the controls and way you maneuver throughout the game is critical.  Nothing ruins the game play experience more than a wacky camera system or dodgy un-configurable button setup.  Have no fear because for the most part, the tried and tested control system of past MGS titles have made their way into this one.  For some reason this game’s controls just seem to go neck and neck and balance perfectly with the PS3’s controller.  Before playing this game I went out and picked up a Dual Shock controller.  While not necessary, it does add to the experience and adds a bit of flavor to game play by implementing its usual jerks and vibrations.  There is also a cut-scene in the game that is worthwhile to see if you have the Dual Shock.  Everything you’ve come to love control wise in past games has been improved on in this one.  Old Snake has a new crouch/walk move that enables him to hunch over and creep really slowly.  This is an absolute must have if you plan on going through the game in stealth.  It is perfect for sneaking up behind guards and giving them a quick slam to the ground via a sweet CQC move.  The CQC (close quarters combat) techniques seem to have been tweaked as well.  There is a host of things you can do with the CQC.  Grabbing a guard to doing full blown choke kills are easy and fluid to execute.  They also got rid of the frustrating squat crawl combo from the last game.  At certain times you may need to crawl or get up fast and the previous system made it difficult to pull off if not careful.  The revamped system is now easier than ever to go from full sprint to walk to sneak and crawl with simplistic ease.  One thing I really liked seeing was the ability to pause the game pretty much whenever you want, even during cut scenes.  I hate games that do not allow me to pause whenever.  The ability to pause during a cut scene is absolutely wonderful.  How many times have you been in the middle of a cut scene and had to leave, but couldn’t because you couldn’t pause?  This may seem insignificant, but it is a blessing if you are the type to play for extended periods and need the occasional break.  Also within the pause menu is the option to skip through the cut scenes.  Again, this is a must if you are going through on stealth and trying to keep your game time completion low.  One thing to note that didn’t sit well was during the South American level, you had to piggy back on top of an armored personnel carrier.  There was a mounted weapon there to use to blast enemy Gekkos.  The mounted weapon was powerful, but overly awkward to control.  This was a little thing, but worth mentioning because of its awkwardness, it makes it hard to complete a no kill run through the game.  Because of the controls, you may inadvertently shoot and kill someone other than the Gekkos which can ruin your no kill/stealth run.  There is another part of the game where you are riding shotgun on a motorcycle and the same funky controls come into play.  Honestly though that is really the biggest issue I had in terms of controls for the game.  I can easily look past this and still achieve the no kill run through as long I am careful.  Overall, the control system is fantastic and doesn’t need hardly any improvements.

Final Impressions -

What else can be said that I didn’t cover already?  I love this game and the series.  That might make me a little partial towards it, but don’t take my word for it.  This game has been widely well received by the gaming world.  The story is masterfully told and all the key elements that make a great game are present.  I give this game a perfect rating.  10 outta 10.  2 thumbs up. 5 stars.  Whatever you want to call it…  This game will go down as Hideo Kojima’s masterpiece.  Whether you consider yourself a casual or hardcore gamer… or maybe something in between, you should give this game a chance at least once.  You will not be disappointed!