The godfather of stealth action gaming has returned. Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol. 1 is exactly what it sounds like – an all-in-one package containing the first stack of games from the Metal Gear universe. That’s a lot of retro gaming goodness for you to get stuck into. Old and new players are in for an absolute treat.

In Snake’s early adventures, you’ll be tasked with infiltrating military bases around the world. But you’ll have to make sure you’re as quiet as possible to get the job done. If you’re not, the guards will raise the alarm and you’ll have to fight your way out. Going from Bond mode to full on Rambo!

To get you ready for your missions, we’ve put together a mini guide containing all the key intel. From the release date and pre-order details to the stealthy gameplay, price and more.

What is Metal Gear Solid’s release date?

The Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol. 1 sneaks its way onto PC and consoles on October 24 2023. So, keep your eyes peeled!

This is only the first volume too. The plan is to re-release more of the series’ classic titles in the coming months. So, if your favourite Metal Gear game isn’t included here, there’s a good chance it’ll show up somewhere down the line.

How much will Metal Gear Solid cost?

The devs and publisher are doing you a real solid. The collection will cost you £54.99 no matter what platform you’re playing on. They’ve even included a ton of extra content, like the exclusive digital Master and Screenplay books that’ll brief you on your objectives, the cinematic story, and the important characters. After all, you’ll want to learn as much about your enemies as you can before you take them on.

Here’s everything you’ll be able to get your hands on:

The games

• Metal Gear

• Metal Gear 2: Solid Snake

• Metal Gear Solid – Includes VR missions/special missions.

• Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty – (HD Collection version).

• Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater – (HD Collection version).

• Metal Gear – (NES/FC version)

• Snake’s Revenge

Bonus content

• Metal Gear Solid: Digital Graphic Novel

• Metal Gear Solid 2: Digital Graphic Novel

• Metal Gear Solid: Screenplay Book

• Metal Gear Solid Master Book

• Metal Gear Solid 2: Screenplay Book

• Metal Gear Solid 2: Master Book

• Metal Gear Solid 3: Screenplay Book

• Metal Gear Solid 3: Master Book

• Metal Gear and Metal Gear 2: Screenplay Book

• Metal Gear and Metal Gear 2: Master Book

• Metal Gear Solid Digital Soundtrack

And breathe. That’s a whole lot of gaming gear right there.

Can I pre-order Metal Gear Solid?

Yep. You can pre-order now to bag yourself a physical copy. Or, if you don’t want another game case taking up your precious shelf space, go for the digital version instead. You can download the game on the Nintendo, PlayStation, and Microsoft stores (or Steam if you’re on PC) and download it straight away on launch day. Then you won’t have to sit around twiddling your thumbs waiting for the postman to show up!

Metal Gear Solid platforms and crossplay

The collection is launching on pretty much every platform out there. You’ll be able to play on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/Series S, plus gaming PCs and laptops. So nobody is going to miss out on the old-school gaming nostalgia.

It’s worth saying though that there’s going to be a few differences when it comes to the frame rate on each console. On Switch, the games will be locked to a solid 30fps (in handheld and docked mode), while the PlayStation, Xbox and PC versions will run at a smoother 60fps.

In terms of crossplay, this is a single-player package – so there’s no need for it here.

How to play Metal Gear Solid

The series is known for its stealthy gameplay. You’ll have to stick to the shadows to avoid enemy patrols – tip toeing your way to objectives like a modern-day ninja. You’ll be in and out before they even know you’re there. Or, if you like to play more aggressively, eliminate any guards that get in your way with silenced weaponry, knives, or just your bare hands. Just make sure you hide the bodies afterwards! Ultimately, the way you tackle your missions is really down to you.

How many hours of gameplay will Metal Gear Solid have?

We’ve run the numbers. When you add together how long each game takes to complete, you’re looking at around 51 hours of solid gameplay. And that goes up a load more if you want to chase down that 100% completion stat. Nice.

Who are the main characters?

The Metal Gear series is known for its cast of larger than life, whacky characters. I mean, those names alone should be a good clue! Here are a few of the major players:

• Solid Snake – Known for his iconic bandana – and no-nonsense personality – he’s a highly skilled stealthy operative. And that means he usually gets tasked with the biggest missions. Stopping global threats. Taking down terror targets. Just your average week at the office then.

• Big Boss – A legendary soldier, he founded the Diamond Dogs – a well-trained and powerful military organisation. With a hand in espionage and all out warfare, he’s the Boss for a reason.

• Liquid Snake – The identical twin brother of Solid Snake (if you couldn’t tell from the name). And let’s just say the two of them don’t get along. He’s the series’ main big bad, and he’s determined to prove that he’s the better operative.

• Raiden – A cybernetically enhanced super solider, Raiden is a talented sword fighter, known for his speed and agility. You definitely don’t want to mess with him.

What are the different Metal Gear Solid game mode options?

Each game in the collection has a single player story mode for you to play through. You’ll move through a set of linear levels, completing missions and putting an end to the baddies’ plans for world domination. These aren’t your average video game stories though. Metal Gear has always been a whole lot zanier than your standard military shooter. So, buckle up, because you’re in for a wild ride.

Will Metal Gear Solid have a multiplayer mode?

Unfortunately not. Metal Gear has always been about cinematic, single player action. So, you’ll be playing through the story as a lone wolf (or should we say Snake) here!

What Metal Gear Solid features are player customisable?

There isn’t a whole lot in the way of customisation. You’ll be able to use different weapons and gear to complete your objectives, but you’ll be playing as Snake, not your own custom character.

Don’t want to miss any of the latest games? Check out all of the biggest releases right here.