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[Neiteio]

I'm just past the first boss battle (Revolver Ocelot in the C4 room with Kenneth Baker), and I felt like sharing my thoughts so far. I'm playing MGS1 while also working toward the true ending in Peace Walker. I figure if I start this thread now, I can ask for tips as I go along.

My impressions so far... are very positive! My only gripe is that I'm still not used to shooting by releasing a button, which made the shootout with Ocelot feel a bit awkward. It took me like three or four tries before I defeated him.

But other than that, it's been smooth sailing. I appreciate that there's no ambiguity in the enemy's line of sight — you simply look at your radar (when available) and you can see their vision cone. It's not like MGS3 where they can spot you from a mile away. Although one downside to the radar is I find myself looking at the corner of the screen whenever it's available and playing entirely off the radar, lol.

That said, when I look at the environments instead of the radar, I find myself appreciating the game's art direction, atmosphere and attention to detail, which holds up very well. I'm not blinded by nostalgia, either — this is my first time playing MGS1, and I didn't own a PS1 growing up. The facility at Shadow Moses has this lived-in feel to it with its coarse textures and moody lighting, and there are some really nice touches like the semi-transparent view of the ceiling lights from your top-down perspective.

Speaking of perspective, I find the top-down view to work quite well so far. Getting around Shadow Moses is a snap using the D-Pad, and I enjoy scoping out each room and hallway with the first-person view (Triangle) to see additional details. I also find the context-sensitive cover to be fairly reliable, allowing me to press my back against walls and watch approaching guards, or to lie low under a surveillance camera until it's looking the other way. Sometimes I stick to things unintentionally, however, which can be a brief inconvenience while trying to flee enemies.

The soundtrack is utterly fantastic. It's neat to finally see it in its proper context: I've already heard many of these themes in MGS4, MGO2, SSB Brawl, etc., but here I can experience them in their original context. The voice acting is decent, too, although it's odd hearing David Hayter's Snake without the gravel, and hearing Mei Ling with an accent.

I think the most impressive aspect so far is the level design. Shadow Moses reminds me, in many ways, of the Spencer Mansion from RE1. Very focused design that unravels in layers, where the backtracking makes you more familiar with the environment. It gives Shadow Moses an intimate feel. I can already see why this is considered such an iconic location.

I should also note, I've been here before — in MGS4. It's neat seeing certain details in their original context, like the two separate vents you can use to access the main hangar. I'm thinking when all's said and done, it might be fun to revisit MGS4 with the knowledge of this game fresh in mind.

At any rate, my MGS marathon continues. MGSV (GZ + TPP) still stands tall as my favorite overall game — a towering achievement, in terms of gameplay and design — but I've been thoroughly enjoying the rest: MGS3, Peace Walker, and now MGS1, with MGS2 to follow.

Speaking of MGS2, I sampled "Snake Tales" a week ago, and now I'm really excited to dive into the full game. MGS2 just feels slick.

 

[Closer Two]

What order are you playing them in?

 

[Neiteio]

What order are you playing them in?

It's better that I give you my overall history with the series. I started with MGS4 back in 2008. It was my first PS3 game — and the PS3, in turn, was my first non-Nintendo system.

Then I played Metal Gear RIsing. Then MGSV, both Ground Zeroes and The Phantom Pain. Roughly 200 hours on the latter!

Recently, I picked up the Legacy Collection on PS3. I beat MGS3, I'm working toward the true ending in Peace Walker, and now I'm also playing MGS1, with MGS2 to follow.

I should note, I already know the story to each game. I watched every cutscene and codec prior to playing MGS4, and watched every doc and read every essay I could find, too!

 

[Vipu]

When i was very young and played mgs i dont even know how long it took that i realized you could c4 that wall to continue.

 

[Neiteio]

When i was very young and played mgs i dont even know how long it took that i realized you could c4 that wall to continue.

I was a bit lost at first, too, but then I remembered the DARPA chief saying there were hidden rooms that had been cemented over, and that you could tell by the color of the wall.

 

[Rogue Agent]

Glad that you're enjoying the game, OP. Even though MGSV is the best-playing one for me, MGS is my favourite in the series.

 

[Neiteio]

Glad that you're enjoying the game, OP. Even though MGSV is the best-playing one for me, MGS is my favourite in the series.

I have to admit, I love MGSV so much that I've kind of been viewing the rest of the series as DVD extras that help enrich the lore, lol. But they've all been neat experiences in their own right so far. A bit clumsier in terms of gameplay, but each installment feels unique. Overall, this series is so amazing, I love it. <3

 

[Closer Two]

It's better that I give you my overall history with the series. I started with MGS4 back in 2008. It was my first PS3 game &#8212; and the PS3, in turn, was my first non-Nintendo system.

Then I played Metal Gear RIsing. Then MGSV, both Ground Zeroes and The Phantom Pain. Roughly 200 hours on the latter!

Recently, I picked up the Legacy Collection on PS3. I beat MGS3, I'm working toward the true ending in Peace Walker, and now I'm also playing MGS1, with MGS2 to follow.

I can't imagine how much of a mindfuck it must be trying to keep up with the story. Even playing in order of release can get a tad confusing.

 

[Charlouie Jonesman]

I'm just quoting myself from the PW thread.

Very important, don't forget to watch the Briefing that you can access from MGS1's main menu, it's about 20 minutes long and goes into much more detail about your mission and the characters. Some of the stuff they talk about is mentioned nowhere else. It's pretty cool.

And keep in mind that MGS1 is one of those weird PS1 games where you had to turn on the analogue stick controls everytime you started the game. The same still applies to the PSN version and I always see lots of people who have no idea that the game has analogue controls at all.

MGS1 still has the best pacing in the series, the cutscenes are long but end just before it would get tedious, the story keeps moving forward at a fast speed, compared to say MGS3 and gameplaywise you encounter new bosses and completly new challenges around every corner.

I only lost a little bit of respect after playing Metal Gear 2 (The previous game for MSX2.) because MGS1 is pretty much a 3D remake of that, while only being a sequel in regards to the story. So much stuff from the previous game (And to a lesser extend the first game.) was copied over 1:1.

 

[SoundPulse]

If you have the time, make sure to go back to the Shadow Moses section in MGS4 after you beat the game. It was such a great piece of fan service. Just like old times.

MGS1 might be my favorite game of all time, despite a deeply flawed section toward the rear of the game. I actually look forward to your perspective of it. It's a clever game with a lot of secrets. And yeah, watch the briefings and read the Previous Operations screens.

If you want something fun, continuously call Mei Ling without saving. You'll also eventually find yourself in a women's restroom. Call her while you're in there.

 

[Neiteio]

I can't imagine how much of a mindfuck it must be trying to keep up with the story. Even playing in order of release can get a tad confusing.

Not at all. I watched every cutscene/codec in the series prior to starting with MGS4! Also read pretty much the entire database that came with that game.

 

[Charlouie Jonesman]

Is it OK to play MGS1 with D-Pad controls? They work well so far.

To carry the conversation over to this thread...

Sure, me personally, I just find the analogue stick more comfortable to use, but your movement controls are still all digital, even when using the stick. The only exception to this is when you're looking around in FPV, where you do have an advantage with analogue controls.

 

[Neiteio]

To carry the conversation over to this thread...

Sure, me personally, I just find the analogue stick more comfortable to use, but your movement controls are still all digital, even when using the stick. The only exception to this is when you're looking around in FPV, where you do have an advantage with analogue controls.

Ah, thanks for the tip. The D-Pad feels great for third-person movement so far, but the analog sticks might be nice for the first-person view.

 

[Graphics Horse]

I was a bit lost at first, too, but then I remembered the DARPA chief saying there were hidden rooms that had been cemented over, and that you could tell by the color of the wall.

They have a different knock sound too

To carry the conversation over to this thread...

Sure, me personally, I just find the analogue stick more comfortable to use, but your movement controls are still all digital, even when using the stick. The only exception to this is when you're looking around in FPV, where you do have an advantage with analogue controls.

Not totally true, you can run at any angle with analog instead of just 8 ways, at least on my ps1 version. Running speed is constant though.

 

[Vipu]

I was a bit lost at first, too, but then I remembered the DARPA chief saying there were hidden rooms that had been cemented over, and that you could tell by the color of the wall.

But the thing was i didnt know any english back then so...

 

[Rogue Agent]

I have to admit, I love MGSV so much that I've kind of been viewing the rest of the series as DVD extras that help enrich the lore, lol. But they've all been neat experiences in their own right so far. A bit clumsier in terms of gameplay, but each installment feels unique. Overall, this series is so amazing, I love it. <3

I see. Yeah, this series is surely something when it comes to each game.I like how the gameplay changes from each game too, with V being the smoothest.

 

[adamantypants]

You have really positive views of this game so far. As a HUGE MGS fan, I know that this game in particular hasn't aged well. You seem to be enjoying it and are still pretty early on. The only thing I can suggest to you is, if you ever get stuck don't be afraid to codec someone. Or even if you aren't stuck, codec someone. There's a lot of hidden dialogue in those codec calls.

But other than that, it's been smooth sailing. I appreciate that there's no ambiguity in the enemy's line of sight — you simply look at your radar (when available) and you can see their vision cone. It's not like MGS3 where they can spot you from a mile away. Although one downside to the radar is I find myself looking at the corner of the screen whenever it's available and playing entirely off the radar, lol.

That's the thing about MGS1; it's a fantastic setting and story, but the gameplay lacks and you end up looking at a green box for a lot of the game.

 

[joms5]

It's better that I give you my overall history with the series. I started with MGS4 back in 2008. It was my first PS3 game &#8212; and the PS3, in turn, was my first non-Nintendo system.

Then I played Metal Gear RIsing. Then MGSV, both Ground Zeroes and The Phantom Pain. Roughly 200 hours on the latter!

Recently, I picked up the Legacy Collection on PS3. I beat MGS3, I'm working toward the true ending in Peace Walker, and now I'm also playing MGS1, with MGS2 to follow.

I should note, I already know the story to each game. I watched every cutscene and codec prior to playing MGS4, and watched every doc and read every essay I could find, too!

Well glad you're enjoying the series so far. Will be interested to see how you rank them overall when you're done.

I remember when I discovered the Ocelot fight area with the hint from the Colonel (EDIT: Apparently it was from the Darpa Chief someone in this thread says), I knew this was going to be a special game.

You have a lot of extremely memorable boss fights coming up. Something that I feel slowly faded away in the series.

If you end up really enjoying MGS, if you're interested I would highly recommend Metal Gear 2 for the MSX. It's bloody fantastic!! Metal Gear for the MSX is not bad too but the sequel is like a 2D version of MGS.

Will be checking in with your progress. Keep us updated.

 

[Z..]

I only lost a little bit of respect after playing Metal Gear 2 (The previous game for MSX2.) because MGS1 is pretty much a 3D remake of that, while only being a sequel in regards to the story. So much stuff from the previous game (And to a lesser extend the first game.) was copied over 1:1.

MG2 has the better soundtrack of the 2, too. MGS is still an overall roaring triumph, though, and many of Kojima's best traits as a designer only truly blossomed in MGS. MG2 was alot better than MG thanks to some of Kojima's new design sensibilities acquired while making Snatcher, but MGS was made by a different, more focused Kojima whose creative vision coming off Policenauts had coalesced into the all-encompassing attentive juggernaut the man is known for today!

 

[LegendOfGood]

Nice write-up, OP. I also appreciate the atmosphere and design of Shadow Moses. I think the soundtrack and its reverb / ancillary "effects" help set the mood considerably.

Glad to hear it still holds up for someone playing it with fresh eyes today.

Enjoy!

 

[dc89]

The script and the acting still hold up incredibly well.
MGS truly is a timeless game.

 

[Neiteio]

Well glad you're enjoying the series so far. Will be interested to see how you rank them overall when you're done.

Honestly, the more I play the MGS series, the less comfortable I feel ranking them. Each game feels so different that it's like comparing apples and oranges. It reminds me of the Zelda series in this regard.

There are different areas where each excels, though. MGSV has incredible controls and game feel. Peace Walker has a really addictive "just one more mission" quality to it. MGS3 has the most compelling cutscenes (but perhaps the most clumsy gameplay). MGS3 has great pacing... although MGS1 may eclipse it. MGS4 feels the most epic. My brief time with MGS2 felt very slick and arcade-like. Like I said, MGSV is my favorite, but they all have their great qualities.

I'm also interested to try the MSX originals, which are included on MGS3 HD on the Legacy Collection.

 

[Blue Submarine No. 6]

Glad you're enjoying it OP... There are many classic bosses and great cut scenes in that game! It's one of my most-replayed games of all time; I've probably completed it 12-15 times since it's release... Enjoy!

 

[Charlouie Jonesman]

MG2 has the better soundtrack of the 2, too. MGS is still an overall roaring triumph, though, and many of Kojima's best traits as a designer only truly blossomed in MGS. MG2 was alot better than MG thanks to some of Kojima's new design sensibilities acquired while making Snatcher, but MGS was made by a different, more focused Kojima whose creative vision coming off Policenauts had coalesced into the all-encompassing attentive juggernaut the man is known for today!

If I'm being completly honest, I like the very first game more than the second. MG2 is very ambitious and ahead of it's time with the ideas Kojima implemented, but it doesn't always work out that well. The level design in the first game is also better, where each screen you walk into is it's own little challenge, with set enemy positions and patrol routes. Metal Gear 2 often tries to have these huge, open areas, with a couple of enemies walking around the entire terrain, but you still walk from screen to screen, no scrolling, and the level design and enemy placement comes off as somewhat sloppy and unfocused. Also, way more backtracking.

I guess the first game has more jank and most of the bosses blow.

 

[Rotch Crot]

Just chase ocelot and shoot him while running.

 

[stargateheaven]

Are you playing on emulator? Or you have the original disc? (and case)

"Remember to check the CD case."

 

[Neiteio]

Are you playing on emulator? Or you have the original disc? (and case)

"Remember to check the CD case."

I'm playing the PSN version that I downloaded with the code in the Legacy Collection

The same code also downloaded a "VR Missions" game, or something to that effect

 

[Dragon Puncher]

That ordering feels like some kind of blasphemy.. Glad you're enjoying them though.

 

[Darkspiret]

MGS2 is going to to be a very interesting playthrough for you to say the least.

 

[Muffdraul]

MGS was absolutely incredible in 1998. It felt like a game from the future had fallen back through a time warp. Right after it came out, I remember if a friend came over to my place I'd go "You have to see this" and make them sit and watch me play for a few minutes. I still play it at least once every year or two. It's totally dated now, but it doesn't really feel like it in my mind.

 

[SoundPulse]

I'm playing the PSN version that I downloaded with the code in the Legacy Collection

The same code also downloaded a "VR Missions" game, or something to that effect

VR Missions is basically just the game's tutorial expanded into its own game. There are weapon challenges, stealth challenges, and other fun stuff, like the ability to play as the Cyborg Ninja. I liked the mystery challenges where you have to solve a murder.

 

[Neiteio]

Question about MGS2:

Since I only played Snake Tales when sampling the game (which apparently is onsite procurement only and set to Hard), perhaps I missed out on a radar. Does MGS2 have a radar like the one in MGS1, where you can see enemy positions and their radar cones?

 

[Muffdraul]

Does MGS2 have a radar like the one in MGS1, where you can see enemy positions and their radar cones?

Yes, but it's taken away in the higher difficulty modes.

 

[Charlouie Jonesman]

Yes, but it's taken away in the higher difficulty modes.

Nah, only in the first game is the radar dependent on your difficulty, it's gone on Hard and above. In MGS2 you can enable or disable the radar on any difficulty. Though in the Big Shell every area has some kind of terminal that you need to find and log in to first, to activate the radar for the area you're in.

Unlike with MGS1 though, enemy's can see a lot farther than their FOV cone indicates, the only difference is that if they notice you running around outside their cone they go and investigate first, instead of calling for an alert.

 

[RandomExpletive]

Yes, but it's taken away in the higher difficulty modes.

And don't forget, having to activate the radar on your first go-round Big Shell

I can't wait for OPs reaction to MGS2, so good, so so good, need to replay sometime soon

 

[Neiteio]

Man, this game is addictive. I'm surprised I'm liking this so much when I found MGS3 to be a bit disappointing (MGS3 being my other reference point when it comes to old-school, pre-MGS4/5 titles).

First, thank goodness for the codecs — I'm not sure I'd figure out most of the traps and bosses without them. Like using cigarette smoke to expose the infrared sensors, or chaff grenades to scramble the M1 tank's tracking so I can run in and spam grenades. It's simple enough, once you realize the solution.

Then there was the bit where you steer a Nikita missile down the hallway to turn off the electrified floor. What a clever scenario! It helps to know you can step outside the gas hall to replenish your oxygen, and that you can steer the missile in first-person view. You can also wear the gas mask to make your oxygen last longer.

Then I had to save Otacon from Gray Fox. Now this was a fantastic battle. Start out by lobbing chaff grenades, then hit him with CQC. Right before the chaff fades, throw another one and hit him again. Then he sheathes his katana for some straight-forward fisticuffs. Then he turns invisible — I used thermal goggles to find him. And when he starts walking slowly toward you, warping to your side at the last second, I cheesed him by standing at the end of the glass corridor; that way, whenever he warped, he landed right in front of me. And then finally when he uses the shield, I just unloaded with my assault rifle.

I feel like I've been very thorough collecting supplies so far, backtracking to previously locked rooms and picking up items in the dark corners of each room. For example, I looted all of the lv. 4 rooms in the gas hall once I had Otacon's card.

I just defeated Psycho Mantis, using only CQC. But I had to look up on the Internet how to defeat him. It wasn't clear to me that I was supposed to switch controllers — or that I could even reassign controllers on the PS3. Perhaps it was more obvious on an original PSX back in the day? Also, is there any way to beat him without switching controllers?

Guess it's time to see what's behind that bookcase he just opened up...

 

[Ratrat]

You have really positive views of this game so far. As a HUGE MGS fan, I know that this game in particular hasn't aged well.

This is so wrong. Its aged incredibly well. Metal Gear 1 on the other hand is barely playable now.

 

[ActWan]

It's a great game, I especially like the dark atmosphere it has.

 

[Neiteio]

This is so wrong. Its aged incredibly well.

Agreed. I keep forgetting this is a PSX game. It seriously feels laser-focused in its design, with tight 2D gameplay in an immersive 3D environment. Even its PS1 visuals have a cool comic book feel to them (i.e. the lack of "eyes" on most character models feels more like a stylized touch than a technical limitation).

The pacing (so far at least) is some of the best I've ever seen. I really wasn't expecting much going in, but this is RE4-esque pacing so far &#8212; a reliable back and forth between 1) guards on patrol in multi-tiered rooms with nooks and crannies, 2) closets and other rooms filled with treasure, 3) creative boss encounters, and 4) quirky scenarios like laser rooms, minefields and guided missiles in hallways.

All of this is punctuated by cutscenes that are surprisingly well-written and acted. Seriously, I was expecting RE1 levels of cheese, but this is perfectly fine so far. Best of all, the cutscenes and codecs don't overstay their welcome. This is world-building just as detailed as the games that follow, even though it's the first of the 3D games. I'm impressed.

 

[GreySquirrel]

My first and probably remains my favourite MGS. Much preferred the intimacy of Shadow Moses and to a lesser extent MGS 2's Big Shell to MGS3 which I am in the minority of it being my least favourite. Although I haven't played Peace Walker, just watched the cut scenes before 5.

Edit - And I actually liked the openness/gameplay of 5. Liked the story too but missed the tightness and boss monologues/battles of the early games.

 

[matrix-cat]

I just defeated Psycho Mantis, using only CQC. But I had to look up on the Internet how to defeat him. It wasn't clear to me that I was supposed to switch controllers &#8212; or that I could even reassign controllers on the PS3. Perhaps it was more obvious on an original PSX back in the day? Also, is there any way to beat him without switching controllers?

If you call your Codec team they'll give you a series of hints about switching the controller port, and I think after like five or six they'll eventually straight up say "Yo, unplug your Playstation controller and plug it into the other controller port, Snake". That game is not shy at all about breaking the fourth wall

I think you can beat Mantis by shooting some of the statues in his room, but I'm not sure if that was in the original or added in Twin Snakes.

I replayed MGS last year as part of a full series replay for MGSV, and I loved it just as much as ever. I think it's aged fabulously in most respects; the only really irritating thing I found was that the latter half of the game has a real habit of hiding invisible claymores everywhere, and it is a bit of a pain having to manually equip the PAN cards to enter locked rooms. Apart from that, I love the story, I love the gameplay, I love that it's just bristling with bossfights. There's seriously another boss like every half-hour, and they're all genuinely fun and thrilling fights.

I even love those old PSX graphics. There's a certain dinginess to Shadow Moses, rusty metal catwalks that have been trod by dirty army boots for years with nobody bothering to clean them, and those muddy textures and swimming polygons just accentuate it so well. I can still close my eyes and hear that weird Gregorian chanting background music, and Snake's footsteps echoing through big empty hangar spaces.

 

[Neiteio]

Gotta say, this NVG wolf cave is frustrating. And now claymores are everywhere as I backtrack for the sniper rifle. I don't mind backtracking, but it seems funny to do this while Meryl bleeds out, lol.

 

[Neiteio]

Is there a way to line up shots on Sniper Wolf without taking multiple shots to the head?

edit: Am I missing something? The sniper zoom seems super slow and super zoomed in, and doesn't appear to have levels of zoom, making it nearly impossible to shoot Wolf before she shoots me and relocates.

edit: This is horrible. She shoots me as I slowly try to find her with the hyper-zoomed scope, and when I'm shot it throws off my view so I don't know where I'm looking, forcing me to unequip and reposition, by which point I'm already dead.

 

[Neiteio]

Finally beat her. I just lie down, scope out her general direction and hope I line up a shot first. When you get hit, best to just unequip your rifle and lay down facing her again before aiming. Thank goodness they give you ammo!

 

[Pinko Marx]

Oh man. Can't wait for your MGS2 LTTP. 2 is one of my favorites of all time. Seriously one of the best told stories in all of gaming. So many layers of narratives and themes to uncover.
I almost envy you.

 

[Neiteio]

Man, the codec conversations are 10x more emotional in the context of the torture sequences. Not a fan of button-mashing (I worry it's unhealthy for one's hand, and it shuts out those who can't do it), but it's thematically appropriate in how it makes you feel, well, tortured!

Oh man. Can't wait for your MGS2 LTTP. 2 is one of my favorites of all time. Seriously one of the best told stories in all of gaming. So many layers of narratives and themes to uncover.
I almost envy you.

I already know the story for MGS2 (and every MGS game). I've known MGS2's story since 2008. I'm just going through the games right now to experience the gameplay.

 

[MarkMclovin]

I can't imagine how much of a mindfuck it must be trying to keep up with the story. Even playing in order of release can get a tad confusing.

It's what put me off of playing the whole series.

 

[Graphics Horse]

Gotta say, this NVG wolf cave is frustrating. And now claymores are everywhere as I backtrack for the sniper rifle. I don't mind backtracking, but it seems funny to do this while Meryl bleeds out, lol.

Too late now but did you know about the Easter egg that lets you backtrack without wolves attacking?

Spoiler

If you punch Meryl at the exit, she'll have a wolf attack you. If you punch her and then get in a box, a wolf will pee on your box which makes the wolves ignore it

Doesn't matter as you should have another item with a similar effect soon.

 

[Neiteio]

Too late now but did you know about the Easter egg that lets you backtrack without wolves attacking?

Spoiler

If you punch Meryl at the exit, she'll have a wolf attack you. If you punch her and then get in a box, a wolf will pee on your box which makes the wolves ignore it

Doesn't matter as you should have another item with a similar effect soon.

Yeah, I just discovered the hankerchef works. I tried it based on its description. Amazing!

 

[Rogue Agent]

All of this is punctuated by cutscenes that are surprisingly well-written and acted. Seriously, I was expecting RE1 levels of cheese, but this is perfectly fine so far. Best of all, the cutscenes and codecs don't overstay their welcome. This is world-building just as detailed as the games that follow, even though it's the first of the 3D games. I'm impressed.

This is what I really like about the game. The dialogue and amount of cutscenes feel so right. The only personal gripe I have is when some characters explain how some things work (I mean the cutscenes where they use actual video footage as they explain things) - I get a bit impatient with that. But that's typical Metal Gear, I guess.