Metal Gear Solid Order Of Games

The Metal Gear Solid Order: A Guide for New and Veteran Players

The Metal Gear Solid series is renowned for its complex narrative, memorable characters, and innovative gameplay. However, its convoluted timeline and numerous spin-offs can make it daunting for newcomers to know where to begin. This guide provides several recommended playthrough orders, catering to different preferences and priorities. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran looking to revisit the saga or a fresh recruit ready to dive in, this guide will help you navigate the world of Big Boss, Solid Snake, and the Patriots.

Why the Order Matters: The Metal Gear Solid storyline unfolds across multiple games, with significant plot points and character arcs spanning decades. Playing the games out of order can lead to spoilers and a diminished appreciation for the overarching narrative. The emotional impact and thematic depth of the series are intricately interwoven, making a specific order crucial for the best experience.

Chronological Order (Recommended for Story Focus):

This approach prioritizes the in-universe timeline, offering a complete understanding of the events and character development across the series. However, be aware that some games are significantly older and may have dated gameplay mechanics.

1. Metal Gear (1987) & Metal Gear 2: Solid Snake (1990): These NES titles lay the foundation for the entire saga, introducing Big Boss and Solid Snake's origins. While graphically simpler, they're crucial for understanding the overarching narrative.

2. Metal Gear Solid (1998): The game that launched the series into the mainstream, introducing the iconic Solid Snake and Shadow Moses Island. This title is a classic for a reason.

3. Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty (2001): A controversial but highly influential entry, expanding on the themes of the first game and introducing Raiden.

4. Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater (2004): A prequel showcasing the origin story of Big Boss, offering a deeper understanding of his character and motivations.

5. Metal Gear Solid: Portable Ops (2006): A PSP title that bridges the gap between Snake Eater and Guns of the Patriots.

6. Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots (2008): Solid Snake's final mission, bringing together storylines from previous games and providing closure to several arcs.

7. Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker (2010): A PSP title and prequel that serves as a bridge between Metal Gear Solid 3 and Metal Gear Solid V.

8. Metal Gear Solid V: Ground Zeroes (2014): A prologue to The Phantom Pain.

9. Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain (2015): The culmination of the Big Boss saga, leaving a significant mark on the overall narrative.

Release Order (Recommended for Nostalgia & Gameplay Evolution):

This approach follows the order in which the games were originally released. It allows you to experience the evolution of the gameplay mechanics and technology firsthand.

1. Metal Gear (1987)
2. Metal Gear 2: Solid Snake (1990)
3. Metal Gear Solid (1998)
4. Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty (2001)
5. Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater (2004)
6. Metal Gear Solid: Portable Ops (2006)
7. Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots (2008)
8. Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker (2010)
9. Metal Gear Solid V: Ground Zeroes (2014)
10. Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain (2015)

"Recommended" Order (Balancing Story and Gameplay):

This order aims for a balance between chronological accuracy and gameplay enjoyment.

1. Metal Gear Solid (1998): Start with the classic that hooked millions.
2. Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater (2004): Understand Big Boss's origins before his later appearances.
3. Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker (2010): Bridging the gap between Snake Eater and Ground Zeroes.
4. Metal Gear Solid V: Ground Zeroes (2014): The prologue to The Phantom Pain.
5. Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain (2015): Experience the complete Big Boss arc.
6. Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty (2001): Explore the themes and complexities introduced in this pivotal installment.
7. Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots (2008): Solid Snake's final mission.

No matter which order you choose, prepare for a wild ride through a series that blends action, espionage, and philosophical depth like few others. Enjoy the journey!