Metal Gear Goes Online, Back in Time

Kojima returns to his most famous creation and spruces it up nice and good. New screens.

Having quelled nuclear war several times at exotic spots the world over, Metal Gear Solid fans will soon be able to go somewhere even more exciting: online. Metal Gear Solid 3: Substinence is a reworking of Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater that brings oodles of new goodies, including, in a first for the series, full online play.

And it's not just your run-of-the-mill online play either. Series director Hideo Kojima has devised a host of mission types that will allow you to use the trademark Metal Gear Solid sneak-'em-up gameplay to battle against up to seven other players online.

You won't, unfortunately, be able to play as Snake in the online bits. Rather, Kojima has cast you as a member of either the Ocelot Unit, the KGB or the GRU.

There is some hope for those that don't want to play faceless peons, though - the best players in online match-ups will be able to choose from certain Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater's cast members. Only Revolver Ocelot has been confirmed, but Kojima has a history of surprising players, so more are possible.

"Finally it is possible to battle with players from around the world online at Metal Gear Solid from the comfort of your own home," said Kojima. "For the online mode, the essence of Metal Gear Solid is retained, with additions of various online rules and original stages."

"With the continued growth of the culture of Metal Gear Solid, this new online addition, I believe, will bring a new way to enjoy and experience the world."

But that's not all. The main gameplay from Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater has been rejigged too. The most obvious change is the new camera system, which helps you keep an eye on everything going on around you.

There's also a special treat for long-time series fans. Konami has confirmed that the franchise's first two outings, Metal Gear and Metal Gear 2, both for the MSX2, will be included with the game.

Metal Gear Solid 3: Substinence will be out for PlayStation 2 next year.

Alex Wollenschlaeger
Editor, Kikizo Games