2008 Woodie Awards
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Riveting 'Metal Gear Solid 4' concludes series, satisfies fans
Video game review
by Frank Knight | Freelance Writer |
The long-awaited fourth installment of designer Hideo Kojima's critically acclaimed "Metal Gear Solid" franchise has finally been released on PlayStation 3. "Metal Gear Solid 4," Sony's first exclusive marquee title of 2008, skillfully intertwines Hollywood-quality cinema with state-of-the-art gameplay mechanics to reinvigorate the console's previously floundering sales.
Players will be captivated by the game's unique blend of compelling narrative and intense gameplay. The first 20 minutes reinvents video game storytelling, placing the player in a chaotic battlefield and forcing the player to traverse a stark, gritty, Middle Eastern city as two warring factions battle all around. Over the course of the game's riveting five acts, the player will cross four continents including one location that long-time "Metal Gear" fans will remember fondly.
Tying together the complex narrative and robust gameplay is an engrossing soundtrack created by Hollywood composer Harry Gregson-Williams. In addition to three previous "Metal Gear" games, Gregson-Williams also composed soundtracks for Hollywood films like "The Rock" and "Kingdom of Heaven." From the initial riff of the acoustic opening song, the player is immersed in a somber world of the not-too-distant future.
"Metal Gear Solid 4" is the final chapter in the life of Solid Snake, once a young member of the elite military group Fox Hound, now a grizzled, elderly veteran for hire. The story of the game centers on themes of war and makes clear statements on issues like the use of private military companies and America's dependence on war as an economic staple.
Over the past 10 years, the "Metal Gear" titles have become known for "breaking the fourth wall," and this installment is no exception. Characters frequently address the player directly and make witty remarks about controller setup and the power of the PlayStation 3. "Metal Gear" tries hard to blur the lines that define the video game genre; it features surprisingly tasteful examples of product placement, including an iPod that allows Snake to enjoy music, director commentary and podcasts.
Players will be captivated by the game's unique blend of compelling narrative and intense gameplay. The first 20 minutes reinvents video game storytelling, placing the player in a chaotic battlefield and forcing the player to traverse a stark, gritty, Middle Eastern city as two warring factions battle all around. Over the course of the game's riveting five acts, the player will cross four continents including one location that long-time "Metal Gear" fans will remember fondly.
Tying together the complex narrative and robust gameplay is an engrossing soundtrack created by Hollywood composer Harry Gregson-Williams. In addition to three previous "Metal Gear" games, Gregson-Williams also composed soundtracks for Hollywood films like "The Rock" and "Kingdom of Heaven." From the initial riff of the acoustic opening song, the player is immersed in a somber world of the not-too-distant future.
"Metal Gear Solid 4" is the final chapter in the life of Solid Snake, once a young member of the elite military group Fox Hound, now a grizzled, elderly veteran for hire. The story of the game centers on themes of war and makes clear statements on issues like the use of private military companies and America's dependence on war as an economic staple.
Over the past 10 years, the "Metal Gear" titles have become known for "breaking the fourth wall," and this installment is no exception. Characters frequently address the player directly and make witty remarks about controller setup and the power of the PlayStation 3. "Metal Gear" tries hard to blur the lines that define the video game genre; it features surprisingly tasteful examples of product placement, including an iPod that allows Snake to enjoy music, director commentary and podcasts.
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