This is a main game, originally released in 1998, that offers a tactical adventure experience with shooter elements. It is available on a wide range of platforms, including PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 3, PlayStation Portable, Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch. Players assume the role of Solid Snake, a special agent who is called out of retirement to prevent a nuclear weapons launch. The game is set in an alternate 1990s where the Cold War has extended, and the narrative unfolds through extensive use of in-engine cinematic cutscenes and conversations with allies to advance the plot and provide insight into the world and its characters. Players navigate environments from a top-down perspective, focusing on avoiding detection by armed enemies. Being detected triggers alarms and alerts adversaries to Snake's location, making stealth a critical component of progression.

Story and Setting

The game's narrative is set in an alternate history where the Cold War persisted into the 1990s. Players step into the boots of Solid Snake, a legendary operative who must come out of retirement. His mission is to infiltrate a remote military base controlled by rogue members of the elite Foxhound anti-terrorist unit. These terrorists are threatening to launch nuclear weapons unless their demands for a substantial ransom are met. With a strict 24-hour deadline, Snake must race against time to sabotage the nuclear threat, rescue two key hostages, and ultimately thwart the terrorists' plans. The story delves into Snake's personal challenges and tests his resolve as a soldier, all while the fate of the world hangs in the balance.

Core Gameplay Mechanics

At its heart, this game is a stealth-focused tactical shooter. The primary gameplay loop revolves around navigating complex environments while remaining undetected by enemy patrols. Players utilize a traditional top-down viewpoint to observe their surroundings and plan their movements. Sound and line of sight are crucial elements; making noise or being seen by guards will trigger an alarm, leading to increased enemy presence and a more challenging situation. Success hinges on careful observation, strategic use of cover, and precise execution of actions. The game emphasizes infiltration and evasion over direct confrontation, though combat is a possibility when stealth fails.

What makes this game unique?

The game is recognized for its pioneering approach to stealth gameplay, which was further refined in its transition to 3D environments. It popularized the stealth genre and demonstrated the potential of in-engine cinematic cutscenes to deliver a compelling narrative. The emphasis on avoiding detection, coupled with a detailed story and atmospheric presentation, created a distinct player experience.

Available Content

This is a main game release. There are currently no DLCs or expansions available for this title. However, one remake has been released, offering a modernized version of the original experience.

Platforms and Release

This main game was originally released in 1998. It is now accessible on a wide array of modern and legacy platforms, including PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 3, PlayStation Portable, Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch.