After re-adjusting to the old unperfected gameplay of MGS, I was ready to re-experience this unforgettable classic.
MGS was the definitive movie-like game. It's obvious once you realize there's only a few hours of gameplay and the rest is just cutscences. This was something that had never been done before properly, and MGS more than proved that games and movies could be merged into something more than just an interactive movie. It also brought Kojima's imaginative characters and storytelling to the unsuspecting gamer audiences for an extremely unique experience with plenty of twists and even a political message.
The incredible detail of this game is probably taken for granted by most people these days, because of the high production values of most modern games. Back in 1998 when this game was released, hearing a difference in the footsteps depending on the surface was truly impressive. This also made you think strategically because the enemies could hear the louder footsteps. The gameplay is good in MGS, but each game in the series improved on the gameplay, and it is noticeable when going back to the original. First thing you'll notice missing is the ability to shoot while in first person view. This can be extremely frustrating at times when the enemies are off-screen, which unfortunately happens too often. You can also forget about shooting from cover or doing rolls, but still, surprisingly many of the crucial gameplay elements of the later installments of the series were already here.
- Presentation
A very unique 10 hour movie that stays interesting even during the longer cutscenes. Not a fan of some of the more over-dramatical scenes, but fortunately it's never quite as over-the-top as MGS4. - Graphics
This is the part that gets dated over time, but still, it's one of the best looking ps1 games. - Sound
Lots of detail and great soundtrack with great voice acting. - Gameplay
MGS gave an alternative to the mindless shoot-everything games, forcing players to think before acting and imploring them to go through the levels unnoticed. - Lasting Appeal
It's short, but it's an experience you won't soon forget.