Review: Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty
At long last, Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty has finally arrived on the PlayStation 2. However, is it worth the hype and the wait? Which video game sequel needs to really deliver? It's time to find out?
Hype's a double-edged sword that can either shred a game, or elevate it to classic status, and anyone who follows the gaming world knows Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty had lofty expectations. The verdict: MGS2 easily vaults the bar that it set for itself, with an action/adventure that's bigger, louder, longer, and tougher than its PlayStation predecessor. It also includes some risky plot twists and play elements that pay-off in spades. The game's level design and enemy A.I. are astounding. Most of the action takes place in rooms and corridors that are riddled with interactive elements, but they're more than just a series of cool bells and whistles for their own sake: here you must learn to use your surroundings creatively-whether it's to conceal defeated guards, set traps, or hide from your pursuers. Speaking of which, adversaries are imbued with a unique and highly challenging A.I. Guard patrols have communication chains, which, if broken, summon perceptive reinforcements. Well-armed reinforcements also come running if you're spotted or unsuccessful in taking out individual guards, and even if you're able to neutralize the initial units, you'll quickly find yourself outflanked and outgunned. Gamers who are prone to Rambo tactics will be quickly greeted by "Mission Failed;" even decorated veterans of the first game must re-think their approach and strategies. MGS2 hardly lacks diversity. In addition to sneaking, crawling, and running past guards are several pressure-cooker situations-navigating narrow platforms, rescuing hostages, and sneaking past a platoon of marines are just a few activities to keep you on sweaty edge. A plethora of subtle hidden features, tweaks, and side challenges-like collecting dog tags-only add to the fun. It's as if the game developers took their "what if..." list of cool ideas and threw it into the game; you can spend hours just exploring. Gamers can breathe a collective sigh of relief: Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty delivers everything it was teased, touted, hyped, and, in some circles, feared to be. It's easily one of the most memorable gaming experiences you're likely to have.
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