# 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.