A Fitting End
Metal Gear Solid 4 is a magnum opus for one of the boldest game series in history. Despite the lengthy cutscenes (which I love) the game is as much movie as it is game. The controls have been refined to a level that makes every aspect of the previous games seem paltry in comparison. Shooting feels spot on, and the gun customization system allows you to play the game how you want.
In Snake Eater one of my main gripes with the Camo Index system was the constant dropping into the menus to make changes. The new camo system makes sense both from an in game technology standpoint as well as a gameplay standpoint. I snuck thru Act 4 up until the combat becomes an absolute necessity and I enjoyed every second of it.
I personally never thought that Kojima would be able to wrap up every strand of the story that he had woven but the game does it without coming across as contrived. My one major plot gripe, which I won't get into here, I have still forgiven because I so enjoyed every other aspect of the story.
This game is a showcase of what the PS3 is capable of, I played this game on a 46" 1080p LCD TV and several times I was flat out in awe of what I was watching. Fight coreography was amazing and over-the-top (but in the good way) and anytime I had to put the controller down I was happy to do so.
I am currently playing thru the game again and all my initial impressions remain intact. I love this game and I loved the ending, Excellent work Kojima, you have raised the bar again
