Is Metal Gear Solid 5: The Phantom Pain Truly “Done?” A Deep Dive
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The question of whether Metal Gear Solid 5: The Phantom Pain (MGSV) is truly “done” is more nuanced than a simple yes or no. On one hand, from a narrative standpoint, the game provides a measure of closure to the saga of Big Boss, bridging the gap between Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker and the original Metal Gear. Gameplay-wise, it offers a vast open-world experience with unparalleled freedom in approaching missions. However, the prevailing sentiment among many fans is that MGSV feels incomplete, hinting at cut content and unfulfilled potential. The game’s structure, particularly its repetitive missions in the second chapter, and the unresolved plot points fuel this perception, leading to the conclusion that, while playable and enjoyable, MGSV isn’t the fully realized masterpiece it could have been.
Evidence of Missing Content: The Lingering Shadow
Several factors contribute to the feeling that MGSV was unfinished. The most prominent is the infamous “Episode 51: Kingdom of the Flies,” content that was planned but ultimately cut from the final release. Footage of this episode exists, showcasing a climactic confrontation with Eli (Liquid Snake) and the child soldiers. Its absence leaves Eli’s storyline hanging, a significant loose end considering his importance to the overall Metal Gear lore.
Furthermore, the abrupt ending and the shift in focus towards harder, recycled missions after a certain point in the story suggest a rushed development cycle. While the gameplay loop is addictive and rewarding, the lack of significant narrative progression in the second half feels like a missed opportunity. Konami’s departure from Hideo Kojima during this period is widely believed to be a significant factor in these perceived shortcomings.
The Impact of Kojima’s Departure
Hideo Kojima, the mastermind behind the Metal Gear franchise, is renowned for his meticulous attention to detail, complex narratives, and cinematic presentation. His creative vision was instrumental in shaping the series’ identity. With Kojima’s departure, the direction of MGSV shifted, resulting in a game that, while technically impressive, lacked the narrative depth and polish that fans had come to expect. The game’s themes of revenge, loss, and the cyclical nature of violence are still present, but they are not explored with the same finesse as in previous installments. This is why many feel Metal Gear Solid 5 is unfinished.
Is Metal Gear Solid 5 A Misunderstood Masterpiece?
The debate rages on about whether MGSV is a misunderstood masterpiece. There are valid arguments on both sides. On one hand, the gameplay is unparalleled, offering players unprecedented freedom in how they approach missions. The sheer variety of tools, tactics, and strategies available is staggering. On the other hand, the story feels disjointed and incomplete, with several loose ends and a disappointing conclusion. The repetitive nature of the second chapter also detracts from the overall experience. Ultimately, whether MGSV is a masterpiece is a matter of personal opinion. However, even those who appreciate the game’s strengths often acknowledge its flaws and the feeling that it could have been so much more. It is truly a masterpiece in terms of gameplay, but its story is unfinished.
The Future of Metal Gear: Remakes and Beyond
With the upcoming release of Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater, a remake of Metal Gear Solid 3, Konami is signaling a renewed commitment to the franchise. However, the question remains: can Metal Gear thrive without Kojima’s creative input? The success of the remake will likely determine the future direction of the series. While a direct sequel to MGSV seems unlikely, given the narrative challenges and Kojima’s absence, the possibility of exploring other characters and timelines within the Metal Gear universe remains open. It is important to understand the different concepts of the series to understand if there will be future iterations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Metal Gear Solid 5
1. Will there be a Metal Gear Solid 6?
While Konami hasn’t officially announced a Metal Gear Solid 6, they have stated that they aren’t done with the franchise. However, without Hideo Kojima, a direct sequel to MGSV is unlikely.
2. Is Metal Gear Solid 5 canon?
Yes, Metal Gear Solid 5 is considered canon within the Metal Gear universe, bridging the gap between previous games and the original Metal Gear. However, it has elements that do not flow well in the series.
3. What was cut from Metal Gear Solid 5?
The most significant cut content is “Episode 51: Kingdom of the Flies,” which would have concluded Eli’s (Liquid Snake) storyline. There are also indications that other missions and side-ops were planned but ultimately scrapped.
4. Why is Metal Gear Solid 5 considered unfinished?
The prevailing feeling of incompleteness stems from the cut content, the repetitive nature of the second chapter, and the abrupt ending. These factors suggest a rushed development cycle and a lack of narrative closure.
5. Is Metal Gear Survive canon?
Metal Gear Survive is not considered canon to the main Metal Gear Solid V story. Its producer even referred to the game’s story as “apocryphal.”
6. What is Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater?
Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater is a full remake of Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater, built using modern technology. The delta symbol signifies “change” or “difference” without altering the underlying structure.
7. Why is Metal Gear Solid 3 being remade?
Metal Gear Solid 3 was chosen for a remake because it depicts the birth of Big Boss (Naked Snake) and is a fan-favorite entry in the series.
8. Will Hideo Kojima return to Metal Gear?
It seems highly unlikely that Hideo Kojima will return to Metal Gear. He currently runs his own company, Kojima Productions, and is focused on developing new games.
9. Does Konami still own Metal Gear?
Yes, Konami owns the Metal Gear IP. Hideo Kojima has no legal bearing on the franchise.
10. Is the Metal Gear story done?
The main storyline of the Metal Gear series was largely concluded in Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots, however there is still room for remakes and alternate storylines.
11. Why did Metal Gear Survive fail?
Metal Gear Survive failed because it lacked the polish, storytelling, and direction of a Kojima title. It felt like a departure from the core values of the Metal Gear series.
12. What was the last Metal Gear game Hideo Kojima worked on?
The last Metal Gear game that Hideo Kojima worked on was Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain, released in 2015.
13. What is the best Metal Gear Solid game?
The “best” Metal Gear Solid game is subjective and depends on personal preference. However, Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater and Metal Gear Solid are widely considered among the best due to their engaging stories and innovative gameplay.
14. Is Big Boss dead?
Big Boss (Naked Snake) ultimately dies in Metal Gear 2: Solid Snake after a final battle with Solid Snake.
15. How has Metal Gear impacted the gaming industry?
The Metal Gear series has profoundly impacted the gaming industry by popularizing the stealth genre, innovating storytelling and cinematic presentation, and influencing numerous other games. The Games Learning Society highlights the series’ innovative approaches to game design and learning mechanics. Visit GamesLearningSociety.org for more information.
In conclusion, while Metal Gear Solid 5: The Phantom Pain offers a compelling gameplay experience, the evidence of cut content and unresolved plot points makes it difficult to consider it a truly “done” game. It remains a complex and controversial entry in the Metal Gear saga, a testament to the creative genius of Hideo Kojima and the challenges of developing a game under strained circumstances. The future of the series remains uncertain, but the legacy of Metal Gear continues to inspire and captivate players worldwide.