What is the Strongest Sword in Metal Gear?
The question of the strongest sword in the Metal Gear universe is a complex one, heavily debated among fans, particularly when focusing on the high-octane action of Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance. While the series features iconic weapons, no single sword holds a monopoly on “strength.” However, if we’re talking about raw, unadulterated damage output, the Murasama Blade from Revengeance takes the crown. It’s important to note that “strongest” can be interpreted in various ways – raw power, effectiveness against specific enemies, or speed – and different swords excel in different categories. The Murasama, when fully upgraded, boasts superior reach and the highest damage potential among the weapons in Raiden’s arsenal, making it the go-to choice for taking down bosses. While other blades like the Fox Blade may be more effective against armored enemies and the Armor Breaker excels against regular enemies, the Murasama’s sheer power coupled with its speed makes it the most potent option in most scenarios.
The Murasama Blade: A Powerhouse of Destruction
The Murasama’s Superiority
The Murasama isn’t just any sword; it’s an instrument of devastation. Its most significant edge comes from its increased swing speed, clocking in at 10% faster than the standard HF Blade. This, combined with its boosted energy absorption, allows for faster, more frequent blade mode attacks. The Murasama’s reach also surpasses that of the HF Blade, providing a crucial advantage in close-quarters combat. For players aiming for maximum damage, the Murasama’s superior damage output is unmatched. Jetstream Sam wields this sword with exceptional skill, further cementing its reputation as a deadly tool.
The Trigger Mechanism: Unleashing Devastating Force
One of the Murasama’s most iconic features is its unique trigger mechanism located within the sheath. This isn’t merely for show, it allows the sword to be launched from the sheath, lending immense power to iaido techniques. The sword is loaded and the trigger is below the hilt and this mechanism significantly boosts the momentum of strikes, making it a formidable weapon in the hands of a skilled user like Sam. This design choice speaks volumes about the Murasama’s raw power and strategic design, emphasizing its place as a top-tier weapon.
Alternative Contenders for Strongest Sword
The HF Blade: A Reliable Classic
The High-Frequency (HF) Blade, wielded by Raiden, is a staple of the Metal Gear Rising arsenal. While not as powerful as the Murasama in terms of raw damage, the HF Blade is an exceptionally versatile weapon, it can cut through most enemies with relative ease. This blade is Raiden’s go-to weapon and is referred to by Roy Campbell as a katana once Raiden is playable in Metal Gear Solid 4. The HF Blade’s consistent performance and reliability make it an essential tool for any Metal Gear player.
The Fox Blade: The Armor Piercer
While not possessing the raw power of the Murasama, the Fox Blade is a specialized weapon designed to tackle heavily armored enemies. It’s a testament to the idea that “strength” isn’t just about raw damage but also about effectiveness against specific threats. The Fox Blade’s ability to bypass armor makes it a valuable asset, especially when facing tough opponents with heavy defensive capabilities.
The Armor Breaker: A Crowd Control Expert
The Armor Breaker is another standout sword, known for its effectiveness against regular enemies. While it may not stand up to the raw damage output of the Murasama against bosses, it excels in dealing with large groups of enemies. It’s a strong contender when looking at “strongest” in the context of general combat. It allows players to quickly dispatch weaker enemies, making it a crucial weapon in horde situations.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Raiden’s primary sword called?
Raiden’s main weapon is the High-Frequency Blade (HF Blade), a katana-style sword that vibrates at high speeds to increase its cutting power. It’s a core weapon throughout his appearances in the Metal Gear series.
2. How long is Raiden’s HF Blade?
Raiden’s High-Frequency Blade is approximately 104 cm (or 41 inches) long. This length is specifically designed for effective melee combat.
3. What is the N. Blade?
The N. Blade is the sword wielded by the Arsenal Tengu in Metal Gear Solid 2. While not as iconic as the HF Blade or the Murasama, it’s a unique weapon within the Metal Gear universe.
4. Why does Jetstream Sam’s sword have a trigger?
The trigger on Jetstream Sam’s Murasama Blade is part of a rifle mechanism within its sheath. This allows him to launch the sword, increasing the momentum of his iaido techniques and delivering incredibly powerful strikes.
5. What is Raiden’s 5-star weapon in Genshin Impact?
This is a common misunderstanding as Raiden from Metal Gear is not related to the Raiden Shogun from Genshin Impact. Raiden Shogun’s signature 5-star weapon is the Engulfing Lightning, a polearm that boosts her energy recharge and overall damage.
6. What is Raiden’s suit called?
Raiden uses a Skull Suit in Metal Gear Solid 2. By the events of Metal Gear Solid 4, he possesses a full cybernetic body.
7. When did Raiden lose his jaw?
Raiden lost his jaw (and the rest of his organic body below his upper jaw) when he was captured and used as a test subject for exoskeletal enhancement surgery by the Patriots. He was grafted into a synthetic body.
8. How much can Raiden lift?
Raiden’s strength is immense. He has been shown lifting and moving incredibly heavy objects, such as the wreckage of the Outer Haven and Excelsus, which would weigh several tons.
9. What is Raiden’s signature weapon in Genshin Impact?
Again, Raiden from Metal Gear is not related to the Raiden Shogun from Genshin Impact. Raiden Shogun’s signature weapon is the Engulfing Lightning, which enhances her energy recharge and damage potential.
10. Who is Raiden’s lover?
After the Big Shell Incident, Raiden was in a relationship with Rosemary (Rose) for some time.
11. What is Raiden’s god name?
In Japanese mythology, Raiden is also known as Raijin or Raiden-sama, the god of thunder and lightning.
12. Who is the strongest Metal Gear character?
Cyborg Raiden is often considered one of the strongest characters in the Metal Gear universe, especially after his cybernetic enhancements in Metal Gear Rising.
13. Why did Raiden get a new body?
Raiden received a 100% cybernetic body after suffering near-fatal injuries in a fight with Samuel Rodrigues in Metal Gear Rising.
14. Why was Raiden called Snake?
In Metal Gear Solid 2, Raiden is called Snake to represent the player’s experience playing as Solid Snake in previous titles.
15. What made Metal Gear Rising so good?
Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance was praised for its sophisticated cutting system, engaging story, excellent soundtrack, and challenging boss battles. These elements all come together to provide a unique and enjoyable experience.
In conclusion, while the Murasama Blade emerges as the most powerful sword in terms of raw damage output in Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance, various weapons, such as the HF Blade, the Fox Blade, and the Armor Breaker, offer unique strengths for specific combat scenarios. This variety ensures that the question of the “strongest” sword is always up for debate. The choice ultimately comes down to individual playstyle, the enemy at hand, and the player’s preferred method of dealing damage.