Metal Gear Solid HD Edition: 2 & 3 Reviews

  • GhidorahZeroGhidorahZero422,691
    05 Jul 2012
    19 1 6
    "Metal Gear Solid HD: Worthy re-release, or shameless cash in?"
    First off I'll say this covers disc one, which is Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty and Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater. Peace Walker is on it's own disc, and separate on this site, so will have a separate review. I played both 2 and 3 when they came out, so I am a bit of a fan.

    Graphics - 8/10
    MGS2 - 7/10
    When Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty originally came out, it was hailed for it's cutting edge graphics. Back then it was a fantastic looking game. Now, it's age is really showing, but it isn't a bad looking game. The low-res textures are much more apparent, occasional clipping problems and some of the animations don't quite cut it. That said, the game does run smoothy, no frame rate issues, and the many, many cutscenes look good. It's not perfect, but it's good.

    Then there is the setting. The Tanker is fairly plain, it's more of a prologue to the Plant. The Big Shell, where the Plant mission takes place, is brilliant. It's well designed from an aesthetic and gameplay point of view. Each Strut is distinctly different from the others, providing new challenges to each. No two areas of Big Shell are the same, which keeps things interesting.

    MGS3 - 8/10
    Out of the two, Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater always looked better. The textures are better, next to no clipping. I found this one to be far better to look at, and seems to have paid off well with the HD remake in comparison to Sons of Liberty.

    Another thing this game has over MGS2, is the setting. The forests are brilliant, they feel alive, and having to rely on choosing camo to match your surroundings just adds to it. But the mountain areas and Volgin's base are brilliantly realised areas in their own right. The characters as well, are a highlight of the game. From each member of the Cobra Unit looking as enigmatic as they should, to the intimidating presence of Volgin, to a young Ocelot and the mostly inappropriately-dressed EVA. Great character design makes you care about the character. I loved The Boss, when she appears on screen, she has a presence few other characters have. EVA feels like a typical Bond girl, but much more interesting (and as a side note, being able to enter first person view during cutscenes with EVA can lead to some rather funny, but not unsurprising, moments).

    Sound - 9/10
    MGS2 - 8/10
    One highlight of the MGS series. David Hayter as Solid Snake is almost iconic in his portrayal of the former FOXHOUND agent, and despite popular opinion, Quinton Flyyn as Raiden is not just a solid performance, it's a great performance that. The rest of the cast all bring their best to the table, and the codec calls and cutscenes are great to listen to. But no mention of the sound is complete without touching upon the music. Wow, one of the highlights of the series really. During the game the music isn't as memorable as the main theme, but it's atmospheric, and works perfectly.

    MGS3 - 9/10
    Everything I said about MGS2, is more than applicable to MGS3, and more. Lori Allen as The Boss is fantastic, and Lee Meriwether as EVA fulfils the role of damsel in distress, and femme fatale perfectly. And on top of that, David Hayter's back in the limelight for the whole game, and this game has one of the best opening videos going. After the Virtuous Mission, there is an opening sequence which is clearly inspired by James Bond. More than that, that makes the whole game feel more like a Bond game, than any Bond game.

    Gameplay - 8/10
    MGS2 - 7/10
    This is where there are problems. The actual gameplay works absolutely fine. The general premise of the game is to sneak past guards to complete your mission. You have the radar to monitor guard's movements, and have a variety of tools at your disposal, ranging from pistols, to claymores, to empty magazines and pornographic magazines to distract guards. In essence, this is fine. The problems arise due to the controls. They aren't a huge problem, but when compared to current generation games, it's a true learning curve. Sometimes, using first person mode to make important shots is a nightmare for your fingers, as at points I had to hold RB to be in first person, X to ready my gun, and both triggers to 'tip toe' to be able to see over a wall, as well as using the left stick to aim. You will need to be using more digits than current gen games require. Another issue is one more of taste than anything, but fixed camera angles. For the most part, this isn't a problem, but whenever you do get spotted, it's hard to maintain a gunfight when you can't see the guards shooting you half the time.

    And on top of that, another problem is the amount of codec calls. This really shows the games age. Almost the entire plot is told through codec calls, the rest through the lengthy cutscenes. But the issue is that codec calls are dreadfully boring, there is nothing to watch, only listen to Raiden and The Colonel talk about rescuing the President. Not only that, but the sheer amount of codec calls gets ridiculous after a while. Cutscenes are fine, they are something to watch and enjoy, watching Vamp take out Seal Team 10 is just plain fun, but for every cutscene you watch, there are three codec calls of equal length. You can tell that there was a want for disc space, as codec calls use far less memory than fully animated cutscenes.

    MGS3 - 9/10
    A bit high? Maybe, but hear me out. For Snake Eater, every problem I just mention above, doesn't apply here. The controls are tighter and more intuitive, if not perfect. You now get control over the camera as well. There are far less codec calls (just a radio in this one), and more cutscenes, which although not adding much in the way of gameplay, makes the whole game much more cinematic and continues that feel of a Bond game done right. The game drops the radar from MGS2, which I remember thinking it would ruin the game, but after playing it, I was sold on it. Without the radar to hold your hand, you do have to keep an eye out for the guards, it's a much more tense game for it. A new feature is hunger and injuries, which are well done, capturing local wildlife to eat to regain stamina and health adds to the suspense and tension created by sneaking through the forests of Russia.

    Longevity - 8/10
    MGS2 - 9/10
    You get two main story missions, Tanker and Plant, which together will take about 12-15 hours if you watch the cutscenes and listen to codec calls, but a speed run can see both done in about 5 hours, even on the harder difficulties. Add to that the VR and Alternative Missions, there really is a lot to play here. As for achievements, one of them wants you to collect all the Dog Tags, which requires a minimum of four playthroughs on increasing levels of difficulty. The VR Missions get progressively harder, and the Alternative Missions are a rather fun 'what if?' set of missions, such as what if Snake was on the Plant instead of Raiden, or what if there was a giant Godzilla sized guard terrorising the Big Shell.

    MGS3 - 8/10
    Yes, one category MGS2 beats MGS3! The game is about the same length, but you don't get the added VR and Alternative Missions. Instead, you get Metal Gear and Metal Gear 2: Solid Snake, both originally for the MSX2, and the first time Metal Gear 2 has been officially released outside Japan. Neither is really a replacement for the VR and Alternative Missions, but considering it's a free bonus, it's not bad.

    Overall - 9/10
    MGS2 - 8/10
    If you had this game before, it's the same game as then, but with achievements and added extras. There are problems in it showing it's age, but all things considered, this is a minor issue. It's still one of the best games from the PS2, and this shows why.

    MGS3 - 9/10
    Every single thing that's good about MGS2 applies to MGS3 and more. It's the same game, but looks better, plays better, and brings you 500G (with MGS2 supplying the other 500). You also get Metal Gear and Metal Gear 2: Solid Snake, which while not amazing, are a neat little distraction.

    If the HD Collection got you just this disc, with MGS2 and MGS3, then that alone is worth the money. But when buying this collection, you have to remember is also comes with Peace Walker, another game in it's own right. Factor in MG and MG2, then for less money than a new game, you get two of the best PS2 games ever released, a fantastic port of a PSP game and two old MSX2 games. 5 games for less than the price of 1. And 2000G for the price of 1000G, as Peace Walker has it's own achievements. If you're a fan of the series, this is a must-buy, and if you've never tried them, this isn't a bad place to start.
    5.0
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    FFX BrotherhoodGood review. I think I'm going to pick this up and this review has definetly backed up the notion for getting it. +1 Thumbs up.
    Posted by FFX Brotherhood on 01 Oct 12 at 19:39
    a Fi1thy CasualThumbs up from me. Great review. I loved both games on the PS2 (MGS2 was the only reason I bought a PS2 back in the day!).

    As for the codec calls in MGS2, I agree it was most likely due to the lack of space available on the old console. I don't know if you ever played MGS1, but it had the same issue. Few cutscenes and LOTS of codec calls.
    Posted by a Fi1thy Casual on 11 Oct 12 at 13:48
    Warboy925Really need to grab this next month...OMG, the end of Sons Of Liberty gave me the chills years ago! Never played the other 2 games, but I have a weird feeling I MIGHT'VE played a little Snake Eater.................might also grab the 1st one off XBL as well....
    Posted by Warboy925 on 16 Dec 15 at 21:44
  • Bloodmang0Bloodmang0231,974
    19 Nov 2011 20 Nov 2011
    19 13 14
    *I would first like to point out that although this HD Collection of the world famous Metal Gear Solid features three titles, I will only be reviewing two. I will be giving my two "rations" on Metal Gear Solid 2 and Metal Gear Solid 3. The third title, Metal Gear Solid: Peacewalker, is separated because it has its own page on TA and is very deserving of its own review*


    Hideo Kojima, possibly one of the most recognizable names in the gaming industry, spawned a series which used the infamous tagline, "Tactical Espionage Action", and singlehandedly redefined the Stealth genre. With a powerful mixture of stealth and action, Metal Gear Solid, took the world by storm and is arguably one of the most important games (and series) of our time. Although MGS1 is not featured in this collection, its successors have been revived for the 360 (and PS3). These titles, as you may already know, are Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty, and Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater.

    Are these the games we remember from our Playstation past? Or have they made new additions that destroy feelings of familiarity when exploring the Big Shell, or the impenetrable fortress of Groznyj Grad?

    Story
    Upon inserting the disc into the console, the player (YOU) are given a choice of playing MGS2 or MGS3. If you chose to start off with MGS2, you will be playing as Solid Snake, and Raiden. This title takes place from 2007-2009. As Solid Snake, you infiltrate an oil tanker as part of an investigation into developments of a new type of Metal Gear, which would serve as a counter measure against other Metal Gear units. Two years later, you assume the role of Raiden. You are sent to an offshore clean-up facility, dubbed "Big Shell", for a sneaking mission to eliminate a terrorist organization that goes by the name of "Sons of Liberty" and rescue the hostages that they have seized, including the President of the United States.
    In MGS3, you are assuming the role of "Naked Snake", who would later become BIG BOSS, set during the Cold War in 1964. You are sent to the Soviet Union to extract a defecting Scientist who was developing a new type of weapon, a nuclear-equipped tank, called the Shagohod.


    Gameplay
    The gameplay for this title is almost exactly what you remember from the PS2, except with a few minor tweaks made to reflect the Xbox 360 Controller. The controls are quick to master, and are very responsive to your touch. This is essential when you must move the joystick slowly, in order to quiet your approach as you get behind the enemy and grab him with the option of breaking his neck or simply knocking him out with the sleeper hold. MGS3 had introduced a new way to interact with the enemy, called CQC or Close Quarters Combat. This allowed you to slam an enemy to the ground, rendering them unconscious, or if you have specific weapons equipped -- for example, a knife -- you can slit the throat of an enemy at the press of the thumbstick.

    Graphics
    Now there have been some speculation as to there being very little difference between the HD versions and the originals. Unfortunately this is true, mostly because there was only so many improvements that could be made with these last-gen titles. The game environments have been very well polished, but the character models have changed very little and are very reminiscent of the PS2. On the plus side, both games run at 60fps (frames per second). MGS3 previously ran at 30fps.
    Sound
    The sound quality has seen improvements and If I had a pair of Turtle Beaches, or another brand of high-end headset, it would make my experience with this game, all the better.


    Replay Value
    However you choose to play both games (you can go on a rampage, killing every enemy in sight, or you can make it a challenge and make a playthrough never killing anyone, including bosses) the game rewards you for beating the game, and unlocks items to use should you choose to playthrough again. If the main story has played its course and you wish to try something different, both titles offer more to do. MGS2 Features VR/Alternative missions, a Boss Survival Mode, as well "Snake Tales", which allows you to play through five scenarios as Snake, set mostly on Big Shell. In MGS3, they have the original Metal Gear and Metal Gear 2: Solid Snake, previously only available on the MSX, which had been exclusive to Japan. This is perfect if you wish to see the series’ original roots.


    Final Verdict
    After all is said and done, if you are a fan of Metal Gear, this is a MUST have! I however would suggest that if you have never played a Metal Gear game before, that you play (or look up the story of) Metal Gear Solid 1. MGS2 makes numerous, upon numerous references to "Shadow Moses" and it will make the story feel very incomplete.

    Overall Score: 4 out of 5
    4.0
  • a44Speciala44Special753,755
    17 Dec 2013 16 Mar 2014
    4 1 0
    MGS2:Subsistance contains the incredible story of Sons of Liberty with all the bonus content. Boss Survival, Snake Tales, and over 200 VR missions. With improved visuals. 9.2/10

    MGS3:Subsistence proves that all re-released games don't suck. The game is amazing and the minute you boot it up, you can tell that a lot of time went into the game. It's loaded with add on's. New camo, a demo theater, trailers, online(At the time), new snake vs. monkey mini games that will keep you entertained for hours for the top score. Also a new 3D camera that will be a loved add on. If that wasn't enough another bonus the game includes the original that started it all Metal Gear and the true sequel available to Americans for the first time Metal Gear 2:Solid Snake. Combine all this with the kick ass story of Snake Eater you are truly in for an unbelievable experience. 10/10

    MGS Peace walker- A great PSP game that is ported perfectly. The games action keeps you intrigued while the shorter missions help with a great at your own pace game. The visuals are amazing and the comic book style cuts Scenes are unique and wonderfully done with a full voice cast. 9.0/10

    Overall thats three great games for 20 bucks with visuals that look amazing and trophies and Achievements for the first time the series is available on the Xbox 360. Don't miss this game. The only regret is that it does not contain the original Metal gear Solid from the playstation. Overall 9.4/10
    5.0
  • SoL face evilSoL face evil149,090
    30 Dec 2012
    4 4 0
    2 classics return for a very exciting ride with better graphics, yet still retain an amazing story and amazing stealth. The 2 games? Metal Gear Solid 2 and 3. (Note: peace walker is included see review for that when finished with game) The games feature different protagonists with 3 you play as Snake who becomes Big Boss and in 2 you play as Snake then, Raiden a rookie. Both games are equally amazing as 3 is set during the cold war and features amazing characters, and some of the best boss fights in gaming history. 2 is set from 07-09 it starts on a tanker with Snake finding out about a metal gear and then Raiden with the "Big Shell" and 2 also features some incredible boss fights and set pieces. 3 has better game mechanics then 2 as 3 of course was made after 2 in release order. You may think that it is a problem though, seeing as 3 is set before 2 and it being a better made game in some cases would turn you off from 2 from playing this is simply not the case. In fact you would need to play 2 then 3 in order to get and understand 3 better. The reason behind this is, 3 references 2 and 2 in some ways references 3. Now you might be groaning and going now I have to buy a ps1 or emulate and play 1 to understand both, again not the case seeing as you can play both and understand the story in fact 2 comes with a little read about the first game in extras menu. 2 has great stealth and has vr missions which are like challenges and training so you can get better at the game. 2 starts off slow but, starts getting harder and better, faster. 3 is a great game with solid gameplay and solid everything, I guess you could call it metal gear solid! (lame joke I know.)
    Overall: Get it if you like stealth or need stealth, this is a great series which you don't wanna miss out on.
    5.0
  • Removed Gamer
    Gamer has been removed
    6 9 0
    An amazing package that's worth every pound/dollar of your hard-earned money. In this collection you get Metal Gear Solid 2 & 3 and Peace Walker. For me it was Metal Gear Solid 3 that stood out from the rest, if you have previously played the game on the PS2 you will be amazed at how well it has been restored and upscaled, even the smallest of details such as the blades of grass or even the jungle scenery on the whole looks absolutely amazing in HD.

    MGS2 also looks great, certainly not as pretty as MGS3 as there are noticeable drops in framerates and environments do look a little big jaggy sometimes but don't let this put you off. MGS2 also offers "Snakes Tales" which are stand-alone missions that let you play as Solid Snake carrying out secret missions on the Big Shell, also there are the VR missions which are little bit menial at first but they do eventually become very absorbing and challenging

    As with all Metal Gear Solid games expect mind-bending storylines, cheesy but memorable dialogue, exhilarating characters and plenty of childish comical humor.

    5 out of 5 stars!