Metal Gear Solid Delta Producer Aims to Remake MGS4, Freeing It from PS3 Exclusivity

Okay, let's be real for a second. When they announced Metal Gear Solid Delta, the collective internet pretty much exploded. I mean, a remake of Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater? Yes, please. The hype is real. But the real news, the thing that's genuinely got me buzzing in the way that only the thought of getting to play MGS3 again can, is this little tidbit that’s been floating around. Apparently, the producers are seriously considering remaking Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots. And not just remaking it, but freeing it from the shackles of its PS3 exclusivity.

Think about it. MGS4 is a masterpiece, I will die on that hill. The series deserves to be experienced by a wider audience. Imagine that glorious game, reskinned, polished, and available on modern consoles and PC. It's enough to make a grown gamer weep.

The PS3 Problem

Let’s be honest: the PlayStation 3 is now a retro console. Its architecture was... unique. Emulation is still a challenge. And while some purists will argue that MGS4 should remain a PS3 exclusive for authenticity's sake, I say poppycock. Games should be played, enjoyed, and preserved. Confining MGS4 to aging hardware is a disservice to the game itself. But, that's just my opinion. Right?

Here's the thing: MGS4 has always been a bit of an odd duck in the Metal Gear Solid family, being tethered to the PS3. It's a graphical showcase, sure, but accessing it in 2024 requires either dusting off your old console or resorting to less-than-ideal emulation methods. A proper remake would not only make it accessible but also allow it to shine on modern hardware, which is something it always deserved.

Why MGS4 Needs a Remake (and a Wider Release)

I initially thought remaking MGS3 was the bigger priority. After all, it's the origin story of Big Boss. But the more I think about it, the more a modern MGS4 makes sense. Graphically, it pushed the PS3 to its limits, but those limits are now laughably outdated. A remake could bring the visuals up to par with modern standards, making the already impressive set pieces even more breathtaking. Furthermore, a remake would give Konami a chance to address some of the narrative criticisms leveled at MGS4. While I personally love the story, I acknowledge that it can be a bit... convoluted. Tweaking certain plot points, streamlining the codec conversations, and generally tightening up the narrative could make it a more palatable experience for newcomers.

And don't even get me started on the controls. The PS3-era controls, while functional, feel clunky compared to modern action games. Imagine playing MGS4 with the refined controls of Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain. The possibilities are endless! Check this out.

How Would a Remake Work?

That's the million-dollar question, isn't it? Would it be a ground-up remake like Resident Evil 2 and Resident Evil 4, or a more straightforward remaster? Given the scope and ambition of MGS4, I suspect it would lean more towards the remake side of things. That means new assets, updated gameplay mechanics, and potentially even expanded story content.

I've got to admit, this part fascinates me. How faithful would they be to the original? Would they dare to change any of the iconic moments? Would they keep the nanomachines explanation for everything? (Please, no more nanomachines.) The balance between honoring the original and modernizing the experience will be crucial.

And speaking of honoring the original, they need to nail the music. Harry Gregson-Williams' score for MGS4 is nothing short of legendary. Any remake would have to retain the original tracks while perhaps adding new arrangements or themes. The sound design, too, needs to be top-notch. The clank of Metal Gear Mk. II, the roar of Metal Gear RAY, the haunting melody of "Love Theme" – these are all essential elements of the MGS4 experience.

Metal Gear Solid Delta and the Future of MGS

The success of Metal Gear Solid Delta will undoubtedly influence Konami's decision regarding MGS4. If Delta is a critical and commercial hit, it will pave the way for more remakes and potentially even new entries in the series. But if it stumbles, it could put the brakes on any future MGS projects. The stakes are high, not just for fans of MGS3, but for the entire franchise. I'm optimistic, though. Konami seems to be taking the project seriously, and they've assembled a talented team to bring it to life. Check this out.

The frustrating thing about this is the waiting game. We're all eager to see what Konami has in store for us, but patience is a virtue. In the meantime, all we can do is speculate, theorize, and replay the original games. Which, honestly, isn't a bad way to spend our time.

FAQ: Your Burning MGS4 Remake Questions Answered

Will the potential Metal Gear Solid Delta remake of MGS4 change the story?

That's the big question, isn't it? While nothing's confirmed, most fans suspect Konami will be fairly faithful to the original narrative. However, expect some streamlining and tweaks to make it more accessible to modern audiences. Certain plot points might be clarified, and some of the more convoluted codec conversations could be trimmed down. But the core story – Old Snake's final mission to stop Liquid Ocelot – will likely remain intact.

Why is everyone so hyped about a Metal Gear Solid Delta remake of MGS4?

Beyond the obvious (it's a beloved game trapped on aging hardware), a remake represents a chance to experience MGS4 in its full potential. Imagine modern graphics, refined controls, and a narrative that's been polished for a new generation. Plus, it opens the door for the game to reach a much wider audience, introducing a whole new wave of players to the epic conclusion of Solid Snake's story.

Is Metal Gear Solid 4 really that good?

Objectively? Yes. Subjectively? Absolutely! It's a flawed masterpiece, no doubt. But its strengths – the stunning visuals (for its time), the emotionally charged story, the incredible set pieces – far outweigh its weaknesses. It's a game that stays with you long after you finish playing it. And for many, it represents the culmination of everything that makes the Metal Gear Solid series so special.

If MGS4 gets a remake, will it be available on PC?

Fingers crossed! One of the main reasons people are clamoring for a remake is to free MGS4 from its PS3 exclusivity. A PC release seems almost guaranteed, especially given the growing popularity of PC gaming. And of course, fans are hoping for releases on the latest PlayStation and Xbox consoles as well.