Summary The first PSP entry of Metal Gear Solid satisfies those who are open to change.

Description Metal Gear Solid resurfaces on the PlayStation Portable in a form most did not expect. In a trade for the original quasi-top down gunplay, a new turn based card system has been implemented. This game feels more like an RPG than a MGS game. That's not to say it's a bad thing, it just takes some getting used to. The story starts out bland, with Snake going after some terrorist group or another, blah blah. The usual stuff for an MGS title, but it quickly ramps up and becomes entertaining. It eventually becomes as much of a cinematic experience as every other MGS game to date. I wont go into details, so as to keep spoilers away. GAMEPLAY: The gameplay is no longer a top down stealth shooter. It has switched to a deck of action cards. You move, and then depending on the cards you have, can perform certain actions like shooting, melee attacks, hiding, planting bombs, etc. The new tactical gameplay is engrossing and extremely deep. It's one of those dynamic things where anyone can play it, but few can master it. I love things like that, so i enjoyed this game thoroughly. GRAPHICS: Great for one of the first PSP games. In fact, they still hold up rather well compared to today's games. Some jagged textures, blocky effects, pop in, etc. but nothing new for a launch title. SOUND: Full Voiceovers. Enough said. The sound effects are run of the mill for a MGS game. The footsteps, and the gunshots, are all very good, but nothing too amazing here but the VO's CONTROLS: This game controls like any other tactical RPG pretty much. Simply use the directional pad to select where you want to go, and what card you want to use. O to confirm something, X to cancel. Its all intuitive and responsive, its very easy to control what your doing. REPLAY: It's interesting to replay battles while using new card combinations, larger decks, and new cards you unlock. But beyond that, there's not much else. LEARNING CURVE: As stated prior, the gameplay is easy to understand, but difficult to master. Some people might not like the new card-based tactics, but if you're willing to adjust, you won't be disappointed. CONCLUSION: Be open to change! If you do so, you'll find a great RPG-like game starring some of gaming's most familiar faces. Review Page Hits: 1 today (17 in the last 30 days) Create Your Own Review or