INTRODUCTION
Pivoting from his renowned video game franchise, Hideo Kojima once again honed in on the character of Raiden in this fascinating spin-off. Raiden, who debuted as a rookie in Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty, was reintroduced as a deadly force in Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots. This story, however, is not merely an extension of the classic Metal Gear Solid stealth games. Instead, it veers into a new territory – a heart-pounding, slasher-style thriller titled Metal Gear Rising.
A FRESH SPIN ON AN ESTABLISHED FRANCHISE
Continuing from his traditional role as the franchise’s mastermind, Kojima assumed the position of executive producer for this installment, mainly focusing on script development and character design. The game, known as Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance, is available on PC, X360, and PS3 platforms. In a significant shift from its core predecessor, this story unfolds four years following the dramatic end of Guns of the Patriots.
BATTLEFIELD AFTERMATH
Raiden, our hero, is pitted against the menacing Desperado Enforcement LLC cyborgs and robots in an anonymous African nation freshly ravaged by civil strife. Platinum Games’ characteristic action-packed, high-octane gameplay offers a refreshing contrast to the more measured pace of the original Metal Gear Solid games.
STEALTH IN A NEW LIGHT
In a nod to the franchise’s roots, stealth attacks are still an option for players, but with a twist. In a delightful subversion, the enemies are more likely to hide from the player, reversing the typical cat-and-mouse dynamic prevalent in the series.
RAIDEN’S ELECTRIC KATANA: A FORCE TO BE RECKONED WITH
Raiden’s weapon of choice – the electric katana – is a sight. Propelled by proprietary technology, this deadly weapon allows players to dismember enemies with brutal precision, adding a layer of raw intensity to the gameplay.
THE REVOLUTIONARY BLADE MODE
The game also introduces a new feature: Blade Mode. This innovative mechanic allows time to decelerate, allowing players to pinpoint their strikes on enemies or environmental elements. This feature amplifies the visceral action, reinforcing the game’s departure from the stealth-focused mechanics of the Metal Gear Solid series while maintaining a touch of its strategic roots.
In a nutshell, Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance stands as an exciting diversion from its stealth-driven predecessors, drawing on their legacy while courageously carving out its own identity. The game underscores the potential of dynamic, high-velocity gameplay, transforming Raiden from a recruit into an unstoppable force. While it remains true to its roots, including innovative elements such as Blade Mode and the reversal of stealth mechanics demonstrates a willingness to experiment, ensuring an exhilarating gaming experience for newcomers and seasoned fans alike.
