Metal Gear Solid Collection arriving on modern platforms
The announcement of a Metal Gear Solid 3 remake stole the show at Sony’s recent PlayStation Showcase, but fans will have to wait patiently for its release. In the meantime, Konami has a surprise in store for Metal Gear enthusiasts—a comprehensive collection of classic titles coming to modern platforms this fall, offering even more games than originally anticipated.
Dubbed Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol. 1, the collection will be available on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC via Steam in just a few months. The PlayStation Store page, as reported by Eurogamer, reveals that the package will now include the original Metal Gear and Metal Gear 2. These two titles laid the foundation for the series’ iconic themes of political intrigue, Cold War paranoia, and a complex lineage of characters named Snake.
The compilation will encompass the first five games in the espionage stealth series:
- Metal Gear
- Metal Gear 2: Solid Snake
- Metal Gear Solid (including VR Missions/Special Missions)
- Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty (HD Collection version)
- Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater (HD Collection version)
While the first two games were released on the MSX2, Metal Gear Solid made its debut on the PS1, and Sons of Liberty and Snake Eater were initially launched on the PS2. Essentially, this collection mirrors the 2012 Metal Gear Solid HD Collection, which brought these same games (excluding Peace Walker on the PSP) to the PS3 and Xbox 360. However, the HD Collection is not currently accessible on modern platforms. The only omission from Metal Gear’s original 20-year run is Snake’s Revenge, the first sequel to the original game that was not directed by the renowned creator Hideo Kojima.
In 2021, all of these games were removed from older storefronts due to issues surrounding “licenses for select historical archive footage used in-game.” Konami assures fans that the new collection will feature the original versions of the games with minimal edits to copyrighted content.
This collection promises to be a nostalgia-filled journey for fans of the franchise. If it lives up to Konami’s track record with classic collections, it will undoubtedly serve as a worthy tribute to and preservation of the Metal Gear series. While exact pricing and a specific release date have yet to be announced, this collection is sure to keep fans occupied until the long-awaited Snake Eater remake finally arrives, for better or worse.
The inclusion of the Metal Gear Solid Collection on modern platforms is a significant development for both longtime fans and new players alike. With the addition of the original Metal Gear and Metal Gear 2, players can now experience the entire chronology of the series, delving into the origins of the iconic stealth gameplay and intricate storytelling.
The previous delisting of these games from older storefronts left a void for fans who wished to revisit or discover these classic titles. Konami’s decision to release the collection with minimal edits to copyrighted content is a commendable approach, ensuring that the essence and integrity of the original games are preserved.
This release comes at a time when there is a renewed interest in retro gaming and an appreciation for preserving gaming history. The Metal Gear Solid Collection serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of the franchise and its impact on the industry. It offers an opportunity for both seasoned players and newcomers to immerse themselves in the rich narrative tapestry and innovative gameplay that defined the series.
While awaiting the highly anticipated Metal Gear Solid 3 remake, fans can now relive the iconic moments and pivotal missions of Solid Snake, Raiden, and other beloved characters. The collection’s availability on modern platforms such as the PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC via Steam ensures that a wider audience can experience the thrill and excitement of these groundbreaking titles.
As the gaming industry continues to evolve, it is essential to recognize and celebrate the contributions of iconic franchises like Metal Gear Solid. The release of the Metal Gear Solid Collection not only provides an opportunity for nostalgia but also acts as a reminder of the creativity, innovation, and lasting impact of these games on the medium as a whole.
Whether it’s reliving classic memories or discovering the roots of a beloved franchise, the Metal Gear Solid Collection promises to captivate players and highlight the enduring relevance of these timeless titles. As fans eagerly await the Snake Eater remake, this comprehensive collection offers a compelling reason to revisit the series or embark on an unforgettable journey for the first time.