Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain PS4 1

Konami just wrapped up a live broadcast of Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain’s behind-closed-doors PlayStation 4 gameplay demo from E3 2014. Originally shown to journalists in Los Angeles last week, the footage showed protagonist Big Boss storming a sandy base, recruiting some troops, and rescuing a hostage. It all looked particularly impressive, but if the sequel’s somehow slipped down your next-gen wishlist, we’ve compiled five reasons revealed during the livestream that should convince you to get back on board.

Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain PS4 2

Cardboard boxes are more entertaining than ever

The humble cardboard box has been a mainstay in the Metal Gear Solid series since its inception, but the trusted espionage accessory is getting a much needed makeover in Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain. As with previous releases, you’ll still be able to infiltrate enemy strongholds under the flimsy cover – but you’ll now be able to pop out from the top and pick off enemies without needing to unequip it. Moreover, should you get spotted while traipsing around, you’ll be able to eject out of the handy hiding place and use it as a decoy. Who knew that factory litter could be so fun?

Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain PS4 3

You can patrol and upgrade your own base as you please

The popular Mother Base mechanic from PlayStation Portable title Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker is making a comeback in Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain – but expect much more than the simple simulation from the handheld release. In addition to being able to call upon your recruits from the field, you’ll also be able to tour your stronghold in real-time and interact with your troops. It’ll be up to you how you construct your own fortress, so no two will ever look the same. This means that you’ll also be able to develop your own unique security strategies, as you’ll inevitably get attacked from time to time.

Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain PS4 4

There’s a completely dynamic weather system

War never changes come rain or shine, and you’ll need to contend with a completely dynamic weather system in Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain. This will include the usual roster of rain and bright sunshine, but you’ll also need to deal with sandstorms when out in the field at different points in the day. Fortunately, if the time or weather doesn’t suit your particular objective, you’ll be able to move the clock forwards by pulling out a cigarette and having a smoke. We don’t recommend puffing for 10 hours straight, but we suppose that Big Boss has the physical fortitude to cope with such dizzying levels of nicotine.

Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain PS4 5

It’s running at 1080p, 60 frames-per-second on Sony’s system

While much of the Japanese industry may have fallen behind the West when it comes to pure visual prowess, there’s no doubt that Kojima Productions’ vaunted FOX Engine is up there with the very best. And just like Metal Gear Solid V: Ground Zeroes, the developer has reiterated that Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain will run at 60 frames-per-second in 1080p on the PS4. The numbers may not mean much to you, but ensure that you’ll receive a clean, fluid image on Sony’s next-gen super machine. And it doesn’t hurt that the title’s got a great art direction, with some amazing character models on display.

Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain PS4 6

The series hasn’t lost its sense of humour

For a franchise that can be quite dark at times, Metal Gear Solid is always a series that’s been secretly quite silly – and that’s not going to change in the upcoming Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain. For starters, the Fulton recovery system is ridiculous in itself, allowing you to send fallen foes, artillery, and, er, sheep back to your base using a rocket propelled parachute. There are even more ridiculous systems built into the game, though, such as the ability to knock out troops by summoning a supply drop on their head, or the abovementioned cardboard box madness.


Are you excited for Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain? Did you watch this morning’s live broadcast, and what were your thoughts? Hide in a cardboard box in the comments section below.