The Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol. 2 Could Be Incredible
Last year saw the release of volume 1 in the Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection series. Although there were issues with the presentation of the package, it featured some of the greatest games ever to grace the industry, allowing new players to experience the epic saga. With volume 2 on its way, I explore which games deserve a spot in the next collection.
Metal Gear Solid 4
Due to the PlayStation 3’s architecture, Metal Gear Solid 4 has been shackled to the system restricting fans from experiencing Old Snake’s final mission. Although some questioned the length and number of cutscenes, fans of the franchise fell in love with the sprawling adventure. Placing this pivotal chapter front and center of the next collection is imperative as it allows for the preservation and accessibility of a significant piece of gaming history.
Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker
Originally released on the PSP, this stunning portable adventure was later ported to consoles on the HD Collection. The smaller scale, mission-focused structure made this the perfect game to dip in and out of, yet the plot remained prominent and developed Big Boss’ story arc. Last available on the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360, plenty of players missed out on this title, making this an essential game for Volume 2 of the Master Collection.
Metal Gear Solid: Twin Snakes
A full remake of the 1998 title, the Nintendo exclusive features several new elements making this a unique experience. With gameplay mechanics similar to Sons of Liberty, newly directed cutscenes and a graphical overhaul, this is undoubtedly a must-play iteration of the classic. While it might be harder to pry the exclusive away from Nintendo, seeing this make its way to modern consoles would be incredible.
Metal Gear: Ghost Babel
Released in 2000 for the Game Boy Color, the spin-off takes place seven years after the original. Although non-canon, the pocket adventure is a bona fide classic and a great example of a game on the platform. With a ton of content, seeing this game sneak onto the collection would be the perfect way to celebrate its long history.
Metal Gear Solid: Portable Ops
With a different writer and director at the helm, Portable Ops should suck, right? Actually, it’s a pretty great adventure that adds to the multi-layered world. On the PSP, it was admittedly, a little awkward to control, so porting this to modern systems with dual analogs would massively improve the experience. Let’s make it happen.
Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance
Ridiculous title aside, Metal Gear Rising is one of the best action-adventure games in the genre. Although Kojima just acted as a Producer, it’s a title that fleshes out the world and is a forgotten classic. With PlatinumGames’ patented tight combat, Raiden’s outing is an absolute blast. The other-the-top action sequences, intense boss battles and stunning art direction are truly one of a kind and due to this, it should be on the collection.
Bonuses
Metal Gear Acid 1 + 2
Bringing the turn-based, tactical trading card game to the Master Collection would be a great addition. Often forgotten and overlooked, this niche title is worth checking out even if it’s to experience a wholly unique take on a much-loved franchise. As extras, these would be massively appreciated.
Metal Gear Solid: Snake Eater – Pachinko
Okay, I know playing a virtual representation of a Pachinko machine would probably suck, but the cutscenes in the strange iteration of MGS3 look awesome. Bring that bad boy over and let fans experience the odd iteration of a classic.
Omissions
Metal Gear Solid V: Phantom Pain and Metal Gear Solid V: Ground Zeroes
Is it truly necessary to include MGSV in the Master Collection? Although iconic, the PS4 version is compatible with modern consoles making its inclusion pointless. I know that some may want the open-world games to be included, however, I think the other titles are more important due to preservation purposes compared to Kojima’s last release in the franchise.
What are your thoughts on the list? Do you agree with my selection? Which other bonuses would you like to see included? Let us know in the comments below or on Facebook or Twitter, and don’t forget to subscribe to us on YouTube for more great video game content.
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