Following the recent launch of the Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol. 1, Konami didn’t waste any time unboxing its next project in the franchise.
The latest trailer for the remake of Metal Gear Solid 3 – now christened Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater – takes us on a brief yet riveting journey, showcasing the game’s new look. But, this isn’t just any other teaser, mind you. It’s an “in-engine” trailer that gives fans a glimpse at the actual gameplay. For those familiar with the series, all the hallmarks of a classic Metal Gear game are present: stealthy traversing through swamps, deft cliff climbs, and the unmistakable thrill of sneaky takedowns. What makes this incarnation even more special is its development using the cutting-edge Unreal Engine 5.
When Metal Gear Solid 3 originally broke onto the scene, it was a PlayStation 2 phenomenon, setting a gold standard a lot of stealth-action games have tried (and failed) to live up to since. The vivid reimagining, which surprisingly enough, was on display in the recent Xbox Partner Preview stream – Metal Gear has traditionally been associated with the other brand – brings a fresh coat of paint while promising a familiar and enhanced experience for fans and newcomers alike. While the earlier initial teaser gave audiences a meticulous look at Naked Snake, this new footage showcases the in-game world. There’s Snake, skillfully evading guards, taking down enemies with expert precision, and navigating various terrains. For those who recall the original, the updated portrayal of classic Snake Eater settings – like the iconic bridge, the building marking Ocelot’s first appearance, and the atmospheric cavern for the confrontation with The Pain – holds true to its PS2 roots. The best part? These locations are rejuvenated with UE5’s modern lighting, reflections, and particle effects. The visuals are immersive, with creatures ranging from rats and snakes to vultures, each animated in stark realism.
Konami’s trailer, although brief, captures the quintessential moments from the original game. The Virtuous mission, the journey across the Dremuchij area Bridge leading to Rassvet, and the underground setting for the fight against The Pain are all there. There’s an authentic homage to the Metal Gear spirit, as players watch Naked Snake stealthily navigate through dense jungles, swamps, and confront adversaries with expertise.
However, it’s hard not to wonder if this project can succeed without Hideo Kojima. Historically, Metal Gear fails without its chief auteur. His attention to detail and otherworldly ideas guided the franchise to outsell even The Elder Scrolls and Battlefield. But, if it’s any consolation, key members who previously contributed to the series are on board, working in close collaboration with Virtuous Studios. It remains unclear if Konami can give this remake the attention it deserves but the evidence so far is reassuring.
Konami might bill Metal Gear Solid 3 Delta: Snake Eater as a faithful remake but it makes changes where it matters. Naked Snake’s improved mobility, for example, is in full display in the trailer. Ocelot-eyed fans will spot that, unlike the original, Snake can now move while crouching. This refined control mechanic is sure to elevate the gameplay experience.
In its 2004 debut, Metal Gear Solid 3 was hailed for its groundbreaking gameplay, intricate boss fights, and a storyline set against the backdrop of the 1960s Soviet Russia. Its unique features, such as the camouflage component and the introduction of close-quarters combat mechanics, won it critical acclaim. With the advent of Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater, these elements not only persist but are enriched with photorealistic visuals.
The environments of Tselinoyarsk, combined with the meticulously detailed rendition of Naked Snake, showcase the full power of Unreal Engine 5.
While fans eagerly anticipate the release, a lingering question remains: when will this game hit the shelves? No official release date has been set, but the wait promises to be worth every second. Given that the recent PC release of the OG Snake Eater had its fair share of shortcomings, it’s vital Konami invest time in ensuring a flawless experience for the Delta version.
It’s no exaggeration to say that the Metal Gear Solid 3 remake’s unveiling has quickly taken the Never Be Game Over community by storm. Whether you’re revisiting a beloved classic or delving into the Metal Gear world for the first time, Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater promises an unforgettable journey, melding a gripping narrative with state-of-the-art visuals and mechanics.
For now though, maybe Konami can confirm if Metal Gear Solid IV: Guns of the Patriot is finally hitting a non-PS3 platform.
