What is Metal Gear, Hideo Kojima’s Eternal Classic?

Hideo Kojima’s Stealth Game Masterpiece – From MSX2 to PlayStation Era

Metal Gear is a third-person stealth video game franchise created by Hideo Kojima and published by Konami. Players control highly skilled infiltrators such as Solid Snake, Big Boss, or Raiden, who confront massive bipedal tanks known as Metal Gears—weapons capable of launching nuclear strikes anywhere on Earth. Pioneering stealth gaming and espionage, the series is renowned for its intricate plots, extensive cinematic sequences, and exploration of themes such as politics, warfare, censorship, genetic engineering, artificial intelligence (AI), loyalty, reality, subjective truth versus universal truth, and frequent fourth-wall breaks. The first Metal Gear game debuted in 1987 for the MSX2, followed by a less successful conversion for the NES. Its sequel, Metal Gear 2: Solid Snake, was released in 1990. With the advent of fifth-generation consoles, Hideo Kojima leveraged the PlayStation’s capabilities to develop Metal Gear Solid, which featured impressive 3D graphics and multi-language voiceovers for its era.

Hideo Kojima’s Metal Gear Chronology – From PS2 to PS3 & Beyond (Masterpiece Remakes & Spin-offs)

Following Metal Gear Solid, sequels included Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty (PS2, Xbox, PC) and Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater (PS2). Kojima Productions released Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots for the PS3 in June 2008. Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance, a spin-off title starring Raiden, was released for Xbox 360, PS3, and Windows. Its follow-up, Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain, launched on September 1, 2015, serving as the eighth canonical title in the series and the sixth chronologically. This installment continues the narrative of Metal Gear Solid V: Ground Zeroes and is set prior to the events of the original Metal Gear games. During the PlayStation Showcase on October 24, 2023, Konami announced a remake of Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater, titled Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater. Alongside this, the company also revealed Metal Gear Solid Master Collection Vol. 1, which will feature Metal Gear Solid, Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty, and the original Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater.

In Case You Missed It

If you’re a fan of intricate space combat and futuristic mecha warfare, be sure to check out Jonathan Dubinski’s latest post “What is Zone of Enders, Hideo Kojima’s Classic Mech Franchise?” published on August 24, 2025. Dive into the rich history and captivating lore of this iconic franchise that has captivated gamers since its debut in 2001. From the original PlayStation 2 release to recent high-definition re-releases and beyond, Zone of Enders continues to evolve. Discover more about the universe it builds and why it remains a beloved classic among fans What is Zone of Enders, Hideo Kojima’s Classic Mech Franchise?. If you’re a fan of classic cyberpunk narratives and groundbreaking video game storytelling, don’t miss Sophie Laurent’s latest exploration into the world of Snatcher. Published on August 24, 2025, this detailed dive uncovers how Hideo Kojima’s sci-fi adventure game set new standards in the industry with its rich narrative and cinematic approach. From its inception on the NEC PC-8801 to its numerous re-releases across different platforms, Snatcher remains a cult classic. Click over to our article What is Snatcher, Hideo Kojima’s Classic Sci-Fi Game? for an in-depth look at this influential game’s captivating storyline and legacy. For those fascinated by innovative gaming mechanics and the visionary mind of Hideo Kojima, be sure to check out Sophie Laurent’s latest piece on “Boktai: The Sun Is In Your Hand” (August 24, 2025). This game, released in 2003 for the Game Boy Advance, stands out with its groundbreaking solar mechanic that required players to venture outdoors. Explore how this unique feature was both a challenge and an innovative step towards integrating real-world elements into gaming. Dive into the details and discover more about Kojima’s pioneering approach at Boktai: The Sun Is In Your Hand – Hideo Kojima’s Solar Portable Game.

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Sophie Laurent

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