The upcoming Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol. 1 appears to be staying true to the original content and themes of the included games. According to reports, the collection will feature a disclaimer warning players that some content “may be considered outdated.” The disclaimer reads, “This game contains expressions and themes which may be considered outdated. However, these elements have been included without alteration to preserve the historical context in which the game was made and the creator’s original vision. Player discretion is advised.”
While it hasn’t been confirmed which specific “expressions and themes” are considered outdated, there is speculation that it could pertain to the portrayal of female characters and the depiction of smoking in the games. Smoking is a recurring element in the Metal Gear series, and there are moments where characters smoke. For example, in Metal Gear 2: Solid Snake, the player must make the protagonist, Snake, smoke a cigarette to calm his nerves before a specific sequence.
It appears that Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol. 1 will not make alterations to the original content but instead aims to provide context for the historical nature of the games and the creator’s vision. The collection includes the first two Metal Gear games, as well as Metal Gear Solid, Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty, and Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater. It’s worth noting that how the Metal Gear Solid 3 remake handles such content may differ, as it is described as a “faithful recreation of the original story and game design” with “stunning visuals.”
The decision to include a disclaimer acknowledges the evolving standards and sensitivities of today’s gaming audience while preserving the integrity of the original games.
