#Metal gear solid v review no spoilers series#

#Metal gear solid v review no spoilers series#

You are presented with a staggering number of missions (split into story-critical and optional categories), and you plan and execute a series of operations at your own pace. Without frequent interruptions for exposition, you’re free to immerse yourself in the addictive mission-based structure. The hands-off approach to storytelling is disappointing, but it also makes room for other elements of the game to step to the forefront. Though all of the information comes together eventually into a tale worthy of the Metal Gear name, the ending didn't satisfy me, presenting few answers and a lot of questions. As a longtime series fan, I would rather deal with a few more cutscenes than spend hours listening to audio tapes to get the proper background. However, Kojima Productions’ decision to offload key story information into optional audio logs means that major developments can occur without necessary context, only letting you learn more about them after the fact. The premise of building Big Boss’ legend is interesting, and it evolves to include compelling and unexpected themes that I won’t spoil. As Big Boss, you build an army and work against a villain named Skull Face (introduced in the MGS V prologue, Ground Zeroes). The story is still important, but it isn’t the driving force in this installment. Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain is different it puts the saga of Big Boss and his sons in the background, emphasizing dynamic gameplay and a player-directed approach to progression. Invested fans adore the series for its narrative just as much as its tactical espionage action, but the sprawling story makes it intimidating for newcomers. Unlike its peers, Metal Gear has been telling a continuous story the whole time – a major strength and a strange weakness all at once. It has been consistently popular since its inception in the ‘80s, which is a rare distinction it shares with revered names like Mario and Zelda. Metal Gear is a member of video gaming’s old guard.