The Peaceless Tragedy of Venom Snake: Unraveling His Fate

Venom Snake, a character shrouded in tragedy and deception, met his end during the Outer Heaven Uprising in 1995, as depicted in the original Metal Gear game. He was killed by Solid Snake, unknowingly believing he was eliminating the real Big Boss. This was revealed as a retcon in Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain, establishing Venom as Big Boss’s phantom, a decoy serving to protect the real Big Boss’s ambitions and consolidate his power. His life, a testament to loyalty and sacrifice, was tragically cut short in the line of duty, forever sealing his fate as a pawn in a larger, more complex game.

The Architect of Outer Heaven’s Downfall: A Necessary Sacrifice

Venom Snake’s story is arguably the most poignant and ethically challenging in the entire Metal Gear saga. He began as a loyal medic in Militaires Sans Frontières (MSF), a skilled soldier who dedicated his life to serving Big Boss. Following the devastating attack on Mother Base in Metal Gear Solid V: Ground Zeroes, he endured a coma and extensive surgery, emerging fundamentally altered both physically and psychologically. Under the influence of hypnotic suggestion and reconstructive surgery, he was transformed into a near-perfect double of Big Boss, effectively becoming his phantom.

Venom Snake’s primary purpose was to divert attention and absorb the hatred directed towards Big Boss, allowing the real Big Boss to pursue his own agenda of establishing a military nation free from governmental control. Venom successfully built Outer Heaven, a formidable military fortress that served as a key component of Big Boss’s vision. He commanded Diamond Dogs, his own mercenary outfit, and engaged in numerous conflicts, all while unknowingly paving the way for the real Big Boss’s future endeavors.

His journey culminated in the events of the original Metal Gear, where Solid Snake was sent to infiltrate Outer Heaven and eliminate Big Boss. Solid Snake succeeded in his mission, unaware that he was actually killing Venom Snake, the loyal soldier who had given everything for his former comrade. Venom Snake’s sacrifice allowed the real Big Boss to continue his work in the shadows, ultimately leading to the events of Metal Gear 2: Solid Snake and Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots.

The revelation of Venom Snake’s true identity significantly altered the series’ narrative, adding layers of complexity and moral ambiguity to Big Boss’s character. It transformed him from a straightforward antagonist into a nuanced figure willing to sacrifice others for the sake of his vision. Venom Snake’s story serves as a powerful commentary on loyalty, identity, and the ethical implications of war. Furthermore, the narrative complexity of the Metal Gear series, and its potential for enriching educational experiences can be further explored at the Games Learning Society website.

Frequently Asked Questions About Venom Snake

Here are some commonly asked questions regarding Venom Snake and his role in the Metal Gear universe:

Is Venom Snake a good guy?

Whether Venom Snake is a “good guy” is a matter of perspective. He performs morally questionable actions in service of Big Boss’s vision. However, he also displays loyalty, bravery, and a desire to protect those under his command. His actions are ultimately driven by his belief in Big Boss and the ideals they shared, even if he was manipulated into his role. Ultimately, Venom Snake’s story highlights the complex moral landscape of war and the blurring lines between right and wrong.

Did Miller hate Venom Snake?

Initially, Kazuhira Miller harbors resentment toward Venom Snake because of the identity switch. However, over time, a complex relationship develops, built on shared experiences and mutual respect. While Miller always knows the truth, he acknowledges Venom’s competence and dedication, ultimately forming a close bond with him. Their relationship is fraught with tension, but ultimately reflects a deep respect forged in the fires of war.

What is Venom Snake’s real name?

Venom Snake’s original name is never explicitly stated in the game. He was a highly skilled combat medic serving in MSF. Before becoming Big Boss’s “phantom,” he was simply a loyal soldier dedicated to his comrades and his leader. He is referred to as “Medic,” “V,” and “Punished Snake” before becoming known as Venom Snake.

Is Venom Snake fake?

The term “fake” doesn’t entirely capture Venom Snake’s essence. He is a real person, with his own thoughts, feelings, and experiences. He is, however, a constructed identity, molded by Big Boss and Zero for a specific purpose. He believes he is Big Boss, and lives that role to the best of his ability, making him more than just a mere imitation.

Does Venom Snake know he is not Big Boss?

The game implies that Venom Snake is unaware that he is not the real Big Boss for a significant portion of the game’s narrative. The truth is revealed to the player near the end of Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain, shocking players and reframing the events of the entire game.

Why did Big Boss turn bad?

Big Boss’s descent into villainy is a complex process driven by several factors. Key among them are the betrayal and manipulation he experienced at the hands of the Patriots, particularly the circumstances surrounding The Boss’s death. He felt that the world needed a place for soldiers that could always be soldiers. His disillusionment with governments and the established order, coupled with his desire to create a world where soldiers are valued, ultimately led him down a dark path.

Who saved Venom Snake?

Ishmael, who is later revealed to be the real Big Boss, saves Venom Snake from assassination at the hospital. Big Boss helps Venom escape the hospital and the pursuit of Quiet by fighting alongside him. This rescue marks the beginning of Venom Snake’s transformation into Big Boss’s phantom.

Does Snake die in mgs5?

While Venom Snake’s death at the hands of Solid Snake is technically depicted in Metal Gear, Metal Gear Solid V retroactively explains it as the death of the phantom Big Boss. The real Big Boss survives the events of Metal Gear Solid V and continues to play a significant role in later games.

How did Big Boss die?

Big Boss’s first apparent death occurs in the original Metal Gear, where he is defeated and presumably killed by Solid Snake. However, he is later revealed to have survived. The real Big Boss ultimately dies in Metal Gear 2: Solid Snake, burned to death by Solid Snake in Zanzibar Land.

Why does Venom Snake have a horn?

The “horn” on Venom Snake’s forehead is actually a piece of shrapnel from a bomb that was implanted inside Paz Ortega Andrade. This bomb was meant to kill Big Boss and Venom Snake during the attack on Mother Base. The shrapnel became lodged in his skull during the explosion and remained there throughout the events of Metal Gear Solid V.

How did Venom Snake lose his arm?

Venom Snake lost his arm, during the attack on Mother Base. It was either destroyed or severely damaged, requiring it to be amputated and replaced with a high-tech bionic arm. This arm becomes a key part of his arsenal and identity throughout Metal Gear Solid V.

Who killed Master Miller?

Master Miller is killed by Liquid Snake in Metal Gear Solid. Liquid Snake impersonates Miller to manipulate Solid Snake and gain access to Shadow Moses Island. Miller’s death is a pivotal event in the game, highlighting the deception and betrayal that are central themes of the series.

Does venom hurt innocents?

Venom Snake’s actions are often morally ambiguous, but he generally does not intentionally harm innocents. His focus is on achieving Big Boss’s goals and protecting his own soldiers. He may be forced to make difficult choices that result in collateral damage, but he does not actively seek to hurt innocent people.

Why does Venom Snake smoke?

Venom Snake uses a special electronic cigar known as a phantom cigar. It contains Wormwood, a herbal drug that speeds up his perception of time when smoked, as well as had some anesthetic affects.

Is Big Boss a bad person?

Whether Big Boss is a “bad person” is complex and debatable. His actions often have destructive consequences, but he also believes he is fighting for a noble cause: the freedom of soldiers and the creation of a world without borders. His motivations are rooted in his traumatic experiences and his disillusionment with governments and the established order. This makes him a deeply flawed, yet compelling, character whose motivations are complex and his actions open to interpretation.