Mastering Mother Base: A Guide to Acquiring S++ Soldiers in Metal Gear Solid V
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So, you want to build the ultimate Diamond Dogs squad? You’re hunting for those elusive S++ rank soldiers in Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain. Excellent! It’s a challenge that separates the casual players from the true commanders. The path to assembling your dream team isn’t always straightforward, but fear not, because I’m here to arm you with the knowledge you need.
The primary ways to acquire S++ staff members are through a combination of event rewards, PF Grade trading, high-level volunteers during combat deployments, and direct extraction (stealing!) Let’s break down each method.
- Event Rewards: Konami regularly holds online events that reward players with high-ranking staff, including S++ soldiers. These events usually involve completing specific objectives in the game, such as infiltrating FOBs (Forward Operating Bases) or completing special combat deployments. Regularly check the in-game event schedule and participate actively.
- PF Grade Trading: As you build up your own Mother Base and participate in FOB missions, your Private Force (PF) Grade will increase. This grade is a measure of your overall military strength and influence. Periodically, you can trade PF Points earned from these activities for high-ranking staff, including S++ soldiers.
- High-Level Volunteers: Combat deployments that require high-level staff to complete successfully will sometimes yield high-level volunteers upon return. The higher the level of staff required to send out, the higher the level of staff that could return as volunteers. If your security team is a high enough level, you may even get S++ rank volunteers.
- Extraction (Stealing): This is the most direct, though often challenging, method. High-ranking soldiers, including S++ personnel, can occasionally be found guarding high-level FOBs belonging to other players. Successfully infiltrating these FOBs and extracting these soldiers is the fastest way to get them.
Keep in mind that luck plays a significant role in some of these methods. Persistence and strategic gameplay are key to maximizing your chances of securing those top-tier soldiers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 FAQs to further enhance your understanding of acquiring and managing staff in MGSV.
1. Can I find S++ soldiers in the main story missions or side ops?
No, S++ soldiers do not appear in the main story missions or side ops. S and S+ rank soldiers can be found during these, but S++ rank soldiers must be acquired using the above methods. Focusing on events, PF Grade trading, high-level volunteers and high-level FOB invasions is crucial.
2. What is PF Grade, and how do I improve it?
PF Grade represents your overall military strength. Improve it by developing your Mother Base, increasing your staff levels, and successfully completing FOB missions. Higher PF Grade unlocks access to better rewards, including high-ranking staff. It’s a long-term investment, so prioritize consistent growth across all aspects of your base.
3. How often do online events occur, and where can I find information about them?
Konami typically holds online events regularly, often weekly or bi-weekly. Check the in-game event schedule within the iDroid menu for upcoming events, objectives, and rewards. Stay updated on the Metal Gear Solid V community forums for announcements.
4. What are FOB missions, and why are they important for getting S++ staff?
FOB (Forward Operating Base) missions involve infiltrating and stealing resources/staff from other players’ bases. Successful infiltrations against high-level FOBs can yield S++ soldiers. Building and defending your own FOBs also contribute to your PF Grade, which allows you to trade PF Points for high-ranking staff.
5. Is there a specific department where I should assign S++ soldiers?
Yes, assign S++ soldiers strategically. Combat Unit and Security Team greatly benefit from high-ranking staff, as they directly impact your combat capabilities and base defense. The R&D Team is also crucial for developing advanced weapons and equipment. Assigning them based on their aptitudes will yield the best results.
6. How does the volunteer staff system work, and how can I maximize my chances of getting high-ranking volunteers?
The volunteer staff system provides new recruits after completing certain missions or combat deployments. To maximize your chances of getting high-ranking volunteers, focus on completing high-level combat deployments that require high-level staff to complete successfully. The rewards correlate with the difficulty and staffing requirements of the operation. A high level Security Team is also vital for getting high level volunteers when your team defends against FOB invasions.
7. What’s the best way to infiltrate an FOB to steal S++ soldiers?
Stealth is your best friend. Plan your infiltration route carefully, use silenced weapons and non-lethal tactics to minimize alerts, and prioritize extracting high-ranking staff over engaging in open combat. Consider using decoys and distractions to create opportunities. Upgrade your stealth gear and practice your infiltration skills. A fully customized sneaking suit and a powerful tranq pistol are essential.
8. What skills should I look for when recruiting staff, besides their rank?
Pay attention to their aptitudes, indicated by the letters A through S. These determine their efficiency in different departments (R&D, Intel, Medical, etc.). A soldier with an S rank in R&D is far more valuable to the R&D Team than a soldier with an A rank in R&D, even if the latter is of a higher overall rank.
9. Can I increase a soldier’s rank from S+ to S++?
No, you cannot directly increase a soldier’s rank. A staff member’s rank is fixed. You must acquire new S++ soldiers through the methods described. Focus on acquiring new high-ranking staff rather than trying to upgrade existing ones.
10. What role does heroism play in attracting high-ranking recruits?
Heroism influences the quality of volunteers. A high Heroism stat indicates that you are seen as a legendary figure, which attracts more skilled and dedicated soldiers. Increase Heroism by completing main missions, side ops, and FOB missions without killing unnecessarily. Extracting enemies instead of killing them is also an excellent way to increase heroism.
11. How do I defend my FOB from invasions, and how does it relate to getting S++ staff?
Defending your FOB successfully earns you PF Points and prevents staff loss. A strong security team, well-placed security devices, and a skilled defensive strategy are essential. The higher the level of your security team, the higher level of staff might be available as volunteers to the team.
12. Are there any specific missions or areas where high-ranking soldiers are more likely to appear?
While S++ soldiers don’t appear in specific areas, high-level FOBs will contain higher-ranking soldiers in general. Focus on infiltrating well-defended FOBs owned by veteran players for a better chance of finding high-ranking targets.
13. What are the best skills to develop for my character to facilitate staff extraction?
Prioritize skills that enhance your stealth and extraction capabilities. Stealth camo, enhanced tranq guns, and the Wormhole Fulton Device are invaluable for extracting staff quickly and safely. Invest in these early on.
14. How do I get PF points fast?
The best way to get PF points fast is to defend your FOB successfully and complete combat deployments on time. It may be difficult to defend your FOB if you do not have adequate security, but you can request support from your friends or random players.
15. What is the best way to learn more about strategy in gaming?
The Games Learning Society (GamesLearningSociety.org) explores the intersection of games and education. You can find invaluable insights into how strategic thinking and problem-solving skills developed through gaming can be applied to other areas of life. It is a wealth of information! This can apply to not only Metal Gear Solid V, but to other games as well.
Mastering Metal Gear Solid V’s staff management system is a long game, but with the right strategy and persistence, you’ll be well on your way to building the ultimate Diamond Dogs. Good luck, commander!