Metal Gear 2: Solid Snake

Overview

Metal Gear 2: Solid Snake is the official and direct sequel to the original Metal Gear, continuing the story of the legendary soldier Solid Snake. Set in the late 1990s, the world faces a new nuclear crisis. The heavily armed nation of Zanzibar Land has abducted the brilliant scientist Dr. Kio Marv, the inventor of a new synthetic oil source, and holds the world hostage with a new, advanced weapon: Metal Gear D. Pulled out of retirement once again, Solid Snake must infiltrate Zanzibar Land, rescue the doctor, and eliminate the Metal Gear threat.

Background

Released exclusively for the MSX2 computer in Japan in 1990, Metal Gear 2: Solid Snake is Hideo Kojima's true sequel, created to expand upon his original vision. It was developed in response to the non-canonical sequel Snake's Revenge, which was created for the NES without Kojima's involvement. For years, Metal Gear 2 remained a Japanese exclusive, unknown to most Western players until it was officially localized and included in the Metal Gear Solid 3: Subsistence release in 2005. The game is celebrated for bridging the gap between the original Metal Gear and the cinematic masterpiece Metal Gear Solid, introducing many of the narrative themes and gameplay mechanics that would later define the series.

Gameplay

Metal Gear 2 represents a massive leap forward in stealth gameplay from its predecessor. While retaining the top-down perspective, the mechanics are far more sophisticated. The radar system is now more advanced, showing enemy positions and their cones of vision. Enemy AI is significantly improved; guards can now hear sounds made by the player, such as footsteps on certain surfaces or silenced weapon fire, and will investigate disturbances. In a series first, Snake can now crouch and crawl, allowing him to hide under desks and move through air ducts to avoid detection. The game features a much deeper and more complex story, told through extended Codec conversations, setting the standard for the cinematic storytelling the series would become famous for.