The Metal Gear Solid series, created by Hideo Kojima and published by Konami, is renowned for its gripping narrative, memorable characters, and groundbreaking gameplay. With a storyline that spans multiple console generations and explores themes of espionage, government conspiracy, and personal identity, the series has left an indelible mark on the gaming industry. Whether you’re a newcomer or a returning fan, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide to help you experience the Metal Gear Solid games in chronological order, immersing yourself in the rich lore and captivating gameplay.
How to Play the Metal Gear Solid Games in Chronological Order
To fully appreciate the narrative and understand the interconnected events of the Metal Gear Solid series, playing the games in chronological order is highly recommended. Here is the chronological order in which you should experience the games:
1. Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater
The journey begins with Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater, set during the height of the Cold War in the 1960s. Players assume the role of Naked Snake, a US Special Forces operative, as he embarks on a mission to rescue a Russian scientist and prevent the development of a weapon of mass destruction. The game delves into themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the complex relationships between characters. Prepare for intense stealth action and memorable boss battles in this prequel to the entire series.
2. Metal Gear Solid: Portable Ops
Continuing the story six years after the events of Snake Eater, Metal Gear Solid: Portable Ops follows Big Boss, now the legendary soldier known as Snake, as he confronts his former unit, FOX Unit. Betrayal, intrigue, and the pursuit of justice drive the narrative as Snake fights to clear his name and bring down the rogue FOX Unit. Portable Ops expands the world of Metal Gear Solid and provides crucial context for future events in the series.
3. Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker
Set four years after the events of Portable Ops, Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker introduces players to the Militaires Sans Frontières (MSF), a mercenary group formed by Snake and his ally, Kazuhira Miller. As MSF, they protect nations unable to defend themselves against external threats. Infiltrating Costa Rica, Snake uncovers a conspiracy involving his former mentor, The Boss, and a nuclear-armed mech known as the Peace Walker. Dive into intense strategic gameplay and engage in cooperative missions in this pivotal chapter of the series.
4. Metal Gear Solid V: Ground Zeroes
Acting as a prologue to Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain, Ground Zeroes bridges the gap between Peace Walker and the next main installment. Players control Snake, now known as Big Boss, as he infiltrates a military base to rescue a key ally. The events in Ground Zeroes set the stage for the dramatic turn of events in The Phantom Pain, introducing players to the dark and complex world of Big Boss.
5. Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain
Nine years after the events of Ground Zeroes, Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain thrusts players into an open-world adventure filled with political intrigue, personal vendettas, and epic battles. As Big Boss, now operating under the codename Venom Snake, you lead your own private military group, Diamond Dogs, in a quest for revenge against those who wronged you. Experience the evolution of stealth gameplay and witness the psychological transformation of the iconic protagonist in this critically acclaimed installment.
6. Metal Gear
Travel back in time 11 years after the events of The Phantom Pain to where it all began. Metal Gear introduces players to Solid Snake, a rookie soldier and member of FOXHOUND, as he embarks on his first mission. Sent to infiltrate the military nation of Outer Heaven, Snake uncovers a deadly weapon known as Metal Gear. Battle against formidable foes and witness the birth of a legendary hero in this classic installment of the series.
7. Metal Gear 2: Solid Snake
Continuing the story four years later, Metal Gear 2: Solid Snake follows Solid Snake on a mission to thwart Big Boss, who is constructing a new Metal Gear in the fictional nation of Zanzibar Land. Engage in intense stealth gameplay, face off against powerful adversaries, and witness the escalating conflict between Snake and his former mentor.
8. Metal Gear Solid
Six years after the events of Metal Gear 2, Metal Gear Solid marks the arrival of Solid Snake in the PlayStation era. Infiltrate the mysterious Shadow Moses Island and confront the rogue FOXHOUND unit led by Liquid Snake. Uncover a web of deceit, encounter iconic characters, and experience the groundbreaking stealth mechanics that defined the series. Metal Gear Solid is a pivotal entry that solidified the franchise’s status as a gaming legend.
9. Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty
Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty takes players on a mind-bending journey through the eyes of a new protagonist, Raiden. Set two years after the events of the first game, Raiden must infiltrate an off-shore decontamination facility known as Big Shell, which has been seized by the terrorist group Sons of Liberty. Unravel the mysteries of the Patriots, confront memorable villains, and question the nature of reality in this thought-provoking installment.
10. Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots
The epic conclusion to Solid Snake’s story, Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots, follows an aging Snake as he battles against his accelerated aging and the powerful private military companies that threaten the world. Witness the culmination of decades of storytelling, revisit familiar faces from the past, and embark on an emotional and action-packed journey that explores themes of legacy, identity, and the consequences of war.
11. Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance
Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance shifts the focus to Raiden once again, showcasing his transformation into a cybernetic ninja. Set four years after the events of Guns of the Patriots, Raiden takes on a ruthless private military group called Desperado Enforcement. Experience high-octane action, master blade combat, and witness Raiden’s personal journey of redemption in this fast-paced spin-off.
What’s Next for Metal Gear?
After years of uncertainty, Konami has confirmed the upcoming remake of Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater, titled Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater. This highly anticipated remake will provide a fresh perspective on the iconic story and deliver a visually stunning experience for both new and returning players.
Additionally, Konami has announced the Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol. 1, which will bring together Metal Gear Solid, Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty, and the original Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater, along with Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots, for modern consoles. This collection will provide an opportunity for fans to relive the classics and newcomers to experience the series’ defining moments.
While the future of the Metal Gear franchise without Hideo Kojima remains uncertain, developers have expressed openness to remaking other Metal Gear games based on player demand. The legacy of Metal Gear continues to captivate audiences, and fans can look forward to new ways to enjoy the series in the years to come.
Conclusion
The Metal Gear Solid series offers a captivating and complex narrative that spans decades and explores profound themes. By playing the games in chronological order, you can fully immerse yourself in this legendary franchise and witness the evolution of characters, gameplay mechanics, and storytelling techniques. Whether you’re a stealth enthusiast or a fan of intricate plots, the Metal Gear Solid series is sure to leave a lasting impression. So, grab your tactical gear, prepare for espionage, and embark on an unforgettable journey through the world of Metal Gear Solid.
