METAL GEAR & METAL GEAR 2: Solid Snake
Action
Single-player
Steam Achievements
Full controller support
Family Sharing

The first and second title in the METAL GEAR series that established the stealth action genre, as well as the basic mechanics of the series.

Developers: KONAMI
Publishers: KONAMI
Release Date: Oct 24, 2023
Price (USD): $13.99
Current Players: 47

Links:  Steam Store  SteamDB

Very Positive(85%)
laying the foundation
historically important
innovative mechanics
stealth genre pioneers
impressive aging
outdated mechanics
nostalgic appreciation
dated design
high price
obsolete gameplay
frustrating controls
tedious backtracking
lack of features
cryptic progression
The reviews highlight a nostalgic appreciation for the original Metal Gear and Metal Gear 2: Solid Snake games, with players recognizing their role in establishing the stealth genre. However, there is significant criticism of the port itself, particularly in terms of resolution and control options. Metal Gear 2 receives more praise for its innovative elements and improved storytelling, while Metal Gear 1 is seen as a rougher experience due to its outdated mechanics. Despite the shortcomings, the historical importance and the emphasis on the series' origins are appreciated by fans.

Positive Points

  • Metal Gear 2: Solid Snake is often praised as a massive improvement over the first game, with enhanced graphics, better storytelling, and innovative gameplay mechanics that were ahead of their time.
  • Both games are recognized for laying the foundation for the stealth genre, introducing many elements that appear in later Metal Gear Solid titles.
  • Players appreciate the historical importance of the games and the bonus content provided, such as the screenplay and master book, which help to understand the story and lore.
  • Many players are impressed with how well the games have aged, particularly Metal Gear 2, which is often compared favorably to Metal Gear Solid 1.
  • Negative Points

  • The controls and gameplay in Metal Gear 1 can be frustrating and obtuse, with issues like unclear progression and the infamous keycard system requiring constant swapping.
  • Both games suffer from a lot of backtracking, which many players found tedious and, at times, overwhelming.
  • Some critics found the port to be lacking in modern features, such as full resolution support and control remapping, which hindered the overall experience.
  • Metal Gear 1 particularly has many cryptic elements and outdated design choices that might require a guide to fully enjoy.
  • Mixed Points

  • While many appreciate the nostalgia and the opportunity to experience these classics on modern systems, others feel that the price is too high for what are essentially basic ports.
  • The balance between the old-school charm and the outdated mechanics is a point of contention, with some players enjoying the challenge while others are frustrated by it.
  • The inclusion of achievements is seen as a positive by some, providing incentive to explore and complete the games, but others feel they don't justify the port's shortcomings.
  • Common Themes

  • The game's contribution to the stealth genre and its historical significance.
  • The major improvements seen in Metal Gear 2 over the original, highlighting its more refined mechanics and storyline.
  • The difficulty and need for a guide due to dated gameplay mechanics and design.
  • Updated 2/11/2026, 12:02:20 AM UTC