Unlocking the Truth: A Deep Dive into Triggering Mission 45 in Metal Gear Solid V
Mission 45, “A Quiet Exit,” is arguably one of the most emotionally charged and pivotal moments in Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain. Unlocking this mission requires a specific sequence of actions and understanding the game’s underlying narrative triggers. So, how exactly do you get to experience this powerful chapter in Big Boss’s saga?
The direct answer: To trigger Mission 45 in Metal Gear Solid V, you need to have completed the following prerequisites:
- Complete Missions 1-45: Seems obvious, but ensure you’ve cleared all main story missions up to and including Mission 45. This is a foundational requirement. Note, however, that the “Truth” Mission 46 is not required to trigger Mission 45.
- Raise your Bond with Quiet to Maximum: This is the most crucial step. You need to max out your bond level with Quiet. You can achieve this by taking her on numerous missions as your buddy, ensuring she survives each encounter, and utilizing her abilities effectively. Check the iDroid’s buddy support menu to track your progress. Look for the butterfly emblem beside her name in the bond chart to change to a different emblem.
- Develop the “Butterfly Emblem”: After maxing out your bond with Quiet, develop the “Butterfly Emblem” for your Diamond Dogs emblem. You can find this under the customization options for your emblem on the ACC. This emblem’s purpose is to prevent Quiet from becoming an enemy during certain story missions. This step is crucial because failure to use this emblem in specific missions can prevent access to Mission 45.
- Complete Side Ops: Progress through various side ops, particularly those that trigger after completing key story missions. These often unlock additional dialogue and story elements that are essential for triggering later events.
- Listen to Cassette Tapes: Pay close attention to your cassette tapes. Key conversations, particularly those involving Kazuhira Miller and Ocelot, provide crucial context and can trigger events when listened to at specific times.
- Refrain from eliminating Quiet during Mission 11: This is a self-explanatory point. If you eliminate Quiet in Mission 11, the game will not proceed to unlock further missions related to her including Mission 45.
Once you have fulfilled all of these conditions and return to Mother Base, a cutscene will play, leading into the events of Mission 45. This moment is often triggered when you return to Mother Base via helicopter after completing other missions or side ops. Be patient; sometimes it requires completing a few extra tasks after fulfilling all the prerequisites.
Understanding the Importance of Quiet and Her Bond
The bond between Big Boss and Quiet is central to the narrative arc that leads to Mission 45. Quiet’s character is not merely a skilled sniper; she represents a complex individual grappling with her past and her loyalty to Big Boss. Maximizing your bond with her isn’t just about unlocking a mission; it’s about understanding her character and the sacrifices she makes.
The Butterfly Emblem: A Shield Against Fate
The Butterfly Emblem is more than just a cosmetic addition; it’s a narrative tool. It prevents Quiet from being forced into a position where she must betray Big Boss, thus preserving the possibility of Mission 45. By equipping this emblem, you are actively choosing to protect Quiet and the bond you share.
The Emotional Impact of “A Quiet Exit”
Mission 45 is a powerful and emotional experience. It’s a testament to the themes of sacrifice, loyalty, and the complexities of war that are woven throughout Metal Gear Solid V. Prepare yourself for a mission that will challenge your perceptions and leave a lasting impact.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Mission 45
Here are some frequently asked questions about Mission 45, providing more in-depth information and addressing common issues players encounter:
1. I’ve completed all story missions, but Mission 45 isn’t triggering. What am I doing wrong?
Double-check your bond level with Quiet. It must be at maximum. Use her consistently on missions and ensure she never gets critically injured. Also, verify that you’ve developed and equipped the Butterfly Emblem. Many players overlook this crucial step.
2. How can I quickly increase my bond with Quiet?
Take her on combat deployment missions. These missions often have easier objectives and can significantly boost your bond level. Prioritize missions where you can utilize her sniping skills effectively. Using her commands such as “Attack” and “Cover Me” is useful as well.
3. Does the difficulty level affect my bond with Quiet?
No, the difficulty level of the missions you take Quiet on does not affect your bond with her. Focus on completing missions successfully and utilizing her abilities effectively.
4. I accidentally eliminated Quiet in Mission 11. Is there any way to still trigger Mission 45?
Unfortunately, no. If Quiet is eliminated in Mission 11, you cannot trigger Mission 45 on that playthrough. You would need to start a new game or load an earlier save.
5. What happens if I don’t equip the Butterfly Emblem?
Without the Butterfly Emblem, a different mission branch may occur, potentially leading to a different outcome for Quiet and preventing access to Mission 45. It is essential to equip the Butterfly Emblem.
6. Do I need to complete all Side Ops before Mission 45 triggers?
No, completing all Side Ops isn’t necessary. However, progressing through the Side Ops is important, especially those that unlock after certain story missions. These can unlock key dialogue and events that are crucial for triggering Mission 45.
7. Are there any specific cassette tapes I need to listen to?
Pay close attention to cassette tapes involving Kazuhira Miller and Ocelot. Their conversations often provide context and can act as triggers for events. While there isn’t one specific tape, listening to them all is recommended for maximum narrative understanding.
8. Can Mission 45 be replayed after it’s completed?
Yes, like other main missions, Mission 45 can be replayed from the ACC after it’s been completed.
9. Does completing Mission 46 (“Truth: The Man Who Sold the World”) affect Mission 45?
No, completing Mission 46 is not a prerequisite for triggering Mission 45. Mission 45 occurs independently of the “Truth” mission.
10. I’ve maxed out my bond with Quiet, developed the Butterfly Emblem, and completed all main missions, but nothing is happening. What now?
Try completing a few extra Side Ops or replaying a main mission. Sometimes, the trigger requires a little extra activity. Return to Mother Base via helicopter after each task to see if the cutscene initiates.
11. Is there a way to check if I have the Butterfly Emblem equipped?
Yes, go to the ACC (Aerial Command Center) and access the emblem customization options. You can verify that the Butterfly Emblem is selected as part of your Diamond Dogs emblem design.
12. Does the order in which I complete Side Ops matter?
The order doesn’t usually matter, but focus on completing those that appear after key story missions, as these are more likely to contain relevant story triggers.
13. Will I lose Quiet as a buddy after completing Mission 45?
Yes. That is the nature of A Quiet Exit.
14. Can I get Quiet back after Mission 45?
Yes, after the completion of Mission 45, there is a possibility to get Quiet back under certain circumstances. This is a hidden mechanic that may require replaying mission 11 several times, meeting a hidden requirement. The key is to not kill Quiet in Mission 11.
15. Where can I find more information about the narrative elements and deeper meanings within Metal Gear Solid V?
You can explore the Games Learning Society website for scholarly articles and discussions about the educational and narrative aspects of video games, including Metal Gear Solid V. Visit them at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.
Unlocking Mission 45 is more than just ticking off a checklist; it’s about engaging with the story, understanding the characters, and experiencing the emotional weight of Metal Gear Solid V. By following these steps and understanding the nuances of the game, you’ll be well on your way to witnessing one of the most memorable moments in gaming history. Good luck, and keep your eyes on the skies.