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Konami already had us firmly in its power when it released the modern classic Metal Gear Solid 3 in 2004. The classic gameplay and incredible visuals, along with the return of Snake for the entire game (sorry Raiden) made it an instant hit, so how could it possibly be improved upon? What could Konami add to what already amounted to one of the most complete and revered titles in the Playstation 2's library?
You'd be surprised at just how much.
As great as the original game was, Subsistence goes the extra mile. What's most interesting is that it really isn't actually a full-blown new version of the original but essentially the same game with some awesome, awesome extras. Kojima and co. have tossed in everything but the kitchen sink to make Snake's last outing this generation one to remember. Newcomers to the series (all two of you) and longtime fans are bound to find something to pique their interest, and a great many gamers are about to go through the first chronological adventure in the franchise one more time.
Boot up the game and you're quickly going to notice the new camera movement. Ah, sweet, sweet camera movement. Taking a page out of Splinter Cell's book, Subsistence finally gives this series the viewing freedom it's needed since the beginning. The whole “tactical espionage” theme benefits greatly from the ability to see anywhere around you without having to switch to the first person mode, and this seemingly minor change makes stealth approaches much more natural and convenient, as you are no longer restricted by what a single, static screen can show you. Of course, those who prefer the classic camera system can revert to it with a single click of the right analog stick, as the new mode is now the default. A few minutes of play is enough, however, to keep most from looking back.
While this alone is enough to warrant another play through, Konami went one step further by adding an online multi-player mode. Yep, that's right. For the first time, gamers can apply all the classic Metal Gear Solid gameplay in combat with others. Up to eight people can battle through several maps using all the tactics and armament they've grown to love while going it alone. Though the modes themselves aren't all that different from other offerings – you still have variations on deathmatch, capture-the-flag (with frogs!), and other standard modes – the fact that it now applies to Metal Gear makes it reason alone for a purchase. Players can hide in cardboard boxes, sneak up on and grab foes for stealth kills, and use camouflage. Basically, if you could do it in the single-player campaign, you can do it here. Personally, I found it to still be a bit below the incredible standard set by the Splinter Cell series, but it' still an excellent first step for a brand that's never gone online before.
Still not enough for you? Then you might be interested in the plethora of extras Konami thoughtfully included across this two disc set. Pixel-perfect versions of the original MSX Metal Gear and the until now Japan-only Metal Gear 2: Solid Snake, both of which offer some excellent tie-ins with the prequel. There's a boss battle mode, and the hilarious Snake vs. Monkey makes a return as well. The first disc also includes a nice little theater with all the game's cut scenes, for those who want to view Kojima's muse from beginning to end.
Chances are, you've already played and beaten Metal Gear Solid 3 and are still debating whether or not it's worth another go. Believe me when I tell you that the time you're wasting debating this pointless issue can be better served running to the store to pick up Subsistence. The new camera and online play is reason enough, but the great extras on the second disc make this the definitive version of the game. Just when you thought you'd seen everything Konami had to offer, they give fans another reason to stick with Snake until the Playstation 3 sequel arrives next year. What more could you ask for?
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