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{{Infobox VG
| title = Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots
| image = [[Image:Mgs4us cover small.jpg|252px]]
| caption = The North American box art for ''Guns of the Patriots''.
| developer = [[Kojima Productions]]
| publisher = [[Konami]]
| designer = [[Hideo Kojima]] (producer, director, writer)<br />[[Shuyo Murata]] (director, writer)<br />[[Kenichiro Imaizumi]] (producer)<br />[[Yoji Shinkawa]] (director, character designer)
| music = [[Harry Gregson-Williams]]<br /> [[Nobuko Toda]]
| series = ''[[Metal Gear (series)|Metal Gear]]''
| engine =
| released = [[June 12]], [[2008]]<ref name="wordwide_release">{{cite web | url=http://www.gamefaqs.com/console/ps3/data/926596.html | title= Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots Worldwide release | date=2008-02-28|accessdate=2008-03-03}}</ref>
| genre = [[Stealth game|Stealth Action]]
| modes = [[Single-player]], [[multiplayer online]] ([[Metal Gear Online]] only, downloadable content)
| ratings = {{vgratings|ESRB=M<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.esrb.org/ratings/search.jsp?titleOrPublisher=Metal%20Gear%20Solid%204&searchType=title|publisher=ESRB|title=ESRB Game Ratings Search Results|accessdate=2008-04-15}}</ref>|BBFC=15<ref>{{cite web| title = Metal Gear Solid 4 rated '15'| work = [http://www.mcvuk.com MCVUK] | date = 2008-04-23| url = http://www.mcvuk.com/news/30306/Metal-Gear-Solid-4-rated-15| accessdate =2008-04-23 }}</ref>|CERO=D|OFLCA=MA 15+<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.classification.gov.au/special.html?n=46&p=156&sTitle=metal+gear+solid+4&sMediaFilm=1&sMediaPublications=1&sMediaGames=1&sDateFromM=1&sDateFromY=1970&sDateToM=5&sDateToY=2008&record=226964|title=OFLC classification database search results|accessdate=2008-05-03}}</ref>|OFLCZ=R16|PEGI=18+}}
| platforms = [[PlayStation 3]]<!-- , so please stop adding any other system to the list. Thank you. -->
| media = [[Blu-ray Disc|Blu-ray-DL Disc]] |requirements =
| input = [[DualShock#DualShock 3|DualShock 3]] / [[PlayStation 3 accessories#Sixaxis|Sixaxis]]
|requirements =
|resolution = <!-- If you want to add 1080p, make sure you have a reliable source that states its _native_ resolution is 1080p, not that it upscales to it. Forums are not reliable. Additionally, the resolutions specified on the box, and the resolution your TV displays, are not necessarily the native resolution. -->
}}

{{nihongo|'''''Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots'''''|メタルギア・ソリッド4・ガンズ・オブ・ザ・パトリオット|Metaru Gia Soriddo 4 Ganzu obu za Patoriotto}} (commonly abbreviated to '''''MGS4''''') is a [[Stealth game|stealth action]] [[video game]]. Directed by [[Hideo Kojima]], [[Shuyo Murata]] and [[Yoji Shinkawa]], ''Guns of the Patriots'' was [[video game developer|developed]] by [[Hideo Kojima#Kojima Productions|Kojima Productions]] exclusively<ref>{{cite web | url=http://gaming.monstersandcritics.com/ps3/news/article_1384409.php/ | title=Konami officially quashes 'MGS4 on Xbox 360' claim|accessdate=2008-01-04|date=2008-01-03}}</ref> for the [[PlayStation 3]] video game console. It is the seventh title in the ''[[Metal Gear (series)|Metal Gear]]'' series and the first in its fourth generation. The game was released worldwide on [[June 12]], [[2008]], 10 years after the release of ''[[Metal Gear Solid]]'' and 20 years after the US release of the first ''[[Metal Gear]]''.<ref name="official_date">{{cite web | url=http://blog.us.PlayStation.com/2008/02/28/metal-gear-solid-4-guns-of-the-patriots-faq/ | title= Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots FAQ | date=2008-02-28|accessdate=2008-02-28}}</ref><ref>http://www.konami.com/ctlimg/konami/pressrelease/02_28_2008_MGS4_DPS.pdf</ref>
==Gameplay==
[[Image:94408-10-1.jpg|thumb|left|Gameplay of ''Metal Gear Solid 4''.]]
In ''Metal Gear Solid 4'', the player ([[Old Snake]]) must navigate the game world in order to progress, using stealth and cunning in addition to traditional combat. It uses third person view with full camera manipulation, but also allows the freedom to play in first-person mode, as well as an over the shoulder view which can be switched from right shoulder to left for corner manoeuvring. The Close Quarters Combat system has been completely revamped.

Several elements from previous titles return in modified forms. Players can also use a new form of [[camouflage]] called "Octocamo," which replaces the camouflage system featured in ''Metal Gear Solid 3''. The normally dark-blue OctoCamo suit allows the wearer to blend in with any surface within a few seconds. Players use the Sixaxis/DualShock 3 controller's motion-sensing capability to reset the OctoCamo to its default colour. Snake later gains a facial version of this technology, either enhancing the effect or allowing him to impersonate others. A new monocular device called "Solid Eye" replaces the various binoculars and image intensifiers from previous titles, and a steel drum complements the series' traditional cardboard box disguise. It is able to deflect bullets, and can be rolled to knock enemy soldiers over, but can lead to Snake being sick should the player roll around excessively.

The game is filled with [[cut scene]] "flashbacks" (although they're not actually cut scenes, but still photos of past events, locations, or characters) that reference what happened in previous ''Metal Gear Solid'' games and how the events or characters relate to the setting of ''MGS4''. Players are able to choose whether to view these scenes by pressing the X button [O button in some countries] on their controller when prompted. Players also have the choice of watching the Mission Briefing cut scenes from predetermined camera angles or exploring them with the Metal Gear Mk. II/III<ref>{{cite web|url=http://kotaku.com/gaming/interview/metal-gear-solid-4s-ryan-payton-speaks-313807.php|title=Metal Gear Solid 4's Ryan Payton Speaks|last=McWhertor|first=Michael |date=[[October 22]], [[2007]]|publisher=Kotaku|language=English|accessdate=2008-08-10}}</ref>.

Snake is also partnered with a robotic [[Unmanned ground vehicle|drone]], the Metal Gear Mk. II/III, which allows him to communicate with other characters, in addition to the CODEC radio system from previous games. It is also capable of incapacitating enemies using a weak electric shock, as well as providing reconnaissance.<ref name="tgs06">{{cite web | year=2006 | url=http://uk.gamespot.com/ps3/adventure/metalgearsolid4/news.html?sid=6158113 | title=Metal Gear Solid 4 TGS 2006 Trailer Impressions | work=[http://www.gamespot.com Gamespot UK] | accessmonthday=22 September | accessyear=2006}}</ref> This drone is reminiscent of Gillian Seed's robotic sidekick of the same name from another Hideo Kojima game, ''[[Snatcher]]''.

Due to the lack of [[haptic|force feedback]] (an important part in previous titles) from the [[PlayStation 3]] during much of the development, the game had been designed with a new feature: a white "Threat Ring," that shows "hills" that display nearby enemies.<ref name=tgs07_kojima_speaks>{{cite web | author = GameSpot | title = TGS '07: Kojima speaks | work=[http://www.gamespot.com GameSpot] | url=http://www.gamespot.com/news/6179757.html?tag=latestnews;title;1 | accessdate = 2007-09-24}}</ref> As a series known for extensive use of force feedback, when Sony announced the reintroduction of a new [[DualShock#DualShock 3|DualShock 3]], ''MGS4'' was announced as one of the first major games to make use of the restored capabilities.<ref name="dualshock_3_announcement">{{cite web|url=http://kotaku.com/gaming/tgs07/the-list-of-ps3-games-that-support-the-dualshock-3-301734.php|title=The List Of PS3 Games That Support The DualShock 3|work=[http://www.kotaku.com Kotaku]|accessdate=2007-09-20}}</ref>

Snake's health plays a small factor during gameplay. If injured on the battlefield, cuts and burns will remain on his skin. However, the developers wished to avoid putting the stress of maintaining Snake's health onto the players, so he wears a muscle suit, allowing players to move in a similar fashion to previous games.<ref>{{ cite news | url=http://www.gamepro.com/news.cfm?article_id=94010 | title= Exclusive Q&A: Hideo Kojima talks Metal Gear Solid | publisher=[[GamePro]] | date=[[2007-01-19]] | accessdate=2007-09-04 }}</ref>

Snake has a meter and an index that replaces the stamina bar from ''Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater''. The index, "Stress," is based on current fighting and climate conditions. This can cause Snake to go into a "combat high,"<ref name="EDGE_May_2008">{{cite journal | quotes = | author = | year = 2008 | month = May | title = No Country for Old Men | journal = [[Edge (magazine)|EDGE Magazine]] | volume = | issue = 188 | pages = 62–71 | publisher = [[Future plc|Future Publishing]] | location = United Kingdom | language = English | format = }}</ref> that sharply increases his accuracy and reduces damage taken. However this effect will eventually wear off and could cause Snake to momentarily collapse. Smoking a cigarette calms him down.<ref name="EDGE_May_2008" /> The meter, "Psyche," slowly drops over time reducing Snake's accuracy and his ability to recover his LIFE bar. Many items in the game -- such as the iPod -- will increase the meter,<ref name="EDGE_May_2008" /> as will consuming ReGain Energy Drinks, noodles, and military rations, or using a compress on Snake's sore back muscles.

There is also a "Baseline Map" which is a radar map with a dynamic circle based on Snake's "presence" in regards to the environment.<ref name="tgs07_kojima_speaks" />
Accessible through the main menu, the Virtual Range is a test facility that allows the player to access the game's library of weapons as well as practice Snake's CQC moves.<ref name="EDGE_May_2008" />

==Plot==
===Characters===
The cast of the game is comprised mainly of characters from previous ''[[Metal Gear Solid]]'' games, although a few new characters are introduced as well. A prematurely aged [[Solid Snake]] returns as the game's sole playable character under the new codename [[Old Snake]]. Assisting him are [[Roy Campbell (Metal Gear)|Roy Campbell]], his former commanding officer; [[Otacon (Metal Gear)|Otacon]], his sidekick since the original ''Metal Gear Solid''; [[Naomi Hunter]], the scientist who injected him with the FOXDIE virus; [[Meryl Silverburgh]], heroine of ''Metal Gear Solid'', now the leader of Rat Patrol Team 01, a military unit sent to investigate PMC activities; [[List of Metal Gear Solid characters#Mei Ling|Mei Ling]], Snake's former data analyst and now Captain of the recommissioned {{USS|Missouri|BB-63}}; [[Raiden (Metal Gear)|Raiden]], the protagonist of ''[[Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty]]'', now a Cyborg Ninja; [[Rosemary (Metal Gear)|Rosemary]], Raiden's former girlfriend, who now works as a psychological counselor; and [[EVA (Metal Gear)|EVA]] from ''[[Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater]]'', now a resistance leader named Big Mama.

[[Image:FOXHOUND Unit depicted in MGS4.jpg|thumb|left|200px|Left to right: Ed, Meryl, Jonathan and Johnny.]]
Also assisting Snake is Drebin, a gun launderer accompanied by his pet monkey, Little Gray; Sunny, [[Olga Gurlukovich]]'s daughter, who was rescued from the Patriots; and the other members of Rat Patrol Team 01, which consist of Ed, the team's second-in-command, radio man, and sniper; Jonathan, a hulking soldier; and [[List of recurring Metal Gear characters#Johnny|Johnny]], nicknamed "[[Akihabara|Akiba]]", the team's electronics expert. Jonathan and Ed are named after the main characters of Hideo Kojima's {{vgy|1994}} [[adventure game]] ''[[Policenauts]]'', from which Meryl debuted as a supporting character. Johnny was the guard that was stripped naked by Meryl in ''MGS1''.

The antagonist of the game is Liquid Ocelot, formerly [[Revolver Ocelot]], an agent of the Patriots until his mind was apparently possessed by [[Liquid Snake]] as a result of an arm transplant. On Liquid Ocelot's side are: [[Vamp (Metal Gear)|Vamp]], the sole surviving Dead Cell member from ''Metal Gear Solid 2''; The Beauty and The Beast Corps; and his private army, the elite all-female Haven Troops. The ghost of [[Psycho Mantis]] from ''Metal Gear Solid'' also makes a special cameo in the game.
<!-- Please do NOT delete/edit text in this section if a or multiple sources are cited for the following given information and/or is taken from a video game screenshot/trailer in which this article associates with. -->
[[Image:Metal-gear-solid-4-guns-of-the-patriots beauty-beast-unit.jpg|thumb|right|200px|The Beauty and the Beast Corps.]]
The Beauty and the Beast Corps serves as the central [[boss (video games)|boss characters]] of ''Metal Gear Solid 4'': It's members are Laughing Octopus, Raging Raven, Crying Wolf and Screaming Mantis. Their animal names openly reference the members of [[List of Metal Gear Solid characters#FOXHOUND|FOXHOUND]] from ''MGS'', their emotions relating to the [[List of Metal Gear Solid 3 characters#Cobra unit|Cobras]] from ''MGS3'', and their weapons taken from [[List of Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty characters#Dead Cell|Dead Cell members]] from ''MGS2''. A close inspection of Screaming Mantis reveals two [[marionettes]] of previous ''MGS'' bosses: Psycho Mantis and [[List of Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater characters#The Sorrow|The Sorrow]], both of whom were psychics. All four of them are women who suffer from [[post-traumatic stress disorder]] and, as a result of this, have become war machines. Their outer appearance is referred to as "Beast", while their inner appearance is referred to as "Beauty". Four models were chosen for their in-game appearances as their "Beauty" side: Lyndall Jarvis (Laughing Beauty), [[Scarlett Chorvat]] (Screaming Beauty), Mieko Rye (Crying Beauty), and Yumi Kikuchi (Raging Beauty). The voice acting for the characters is done by having the female voice actors perform the lines while a male voice ([[Shozo Iizuka]] in Japanese and [[Fred Tatasciore]] in English) overdubs on top of the female voices, creating a split-voice effect for the characters.

===Story=== <!-- Please do NOT delete/edit text in this section if a or multiple sources are cited for the following given information and/or is taken from a video game screenshot/trailer in which this article associates with. -->
{{Metal Gear Solid Story Order}}
Set in 2014, five years after the "Big Shell Incident" (the events of the Plant Chapter from ''[[Metal Gear Solid 2]]''), ''Metal Gear Solid 4'' portrays a world where the restriction of military intervention on foreign soil has been eased, fueling the need for [[private military companies]] (PMCs) to fight proxy wars for business purposes. [[Nanotechnology]] has become prominent, both to enhance the capabilities and enforce the loyalty of mercenaries. The nanomachine system that PMCs use is called "Sons of the Patriots" or "SOP". The five largest of these PMCs (Praying Mantis, Otselotovaya Khvatka, Werewolf, Pieuvre Armement and Raven Sword) are owned by a single mother company named Outer Heaven<ref name="Outer">'''Campbell:''' This mother company embodies the five largest PMCs. Her name is... "Outer Heaven." ''(Metal Gear Solid 4)''</ref>, operated by [[Liquid Ocelot]]. Amassing an army whose manpower rivals that of the [[United States]], Liquid prepares to launch an armed insurrection by taking control of SOP. With the world once again in crisis, a rapidly aging and disillusioned Snake (now known as [[Old Snake]]) is deployed into the Middle East by [[List of Metal Gear Solid characters#Roy Campbell|Roy Campbell]] to terminate Liquid. ''Guns of the Patriots'' takes place in five locations: the Middle East, South America, Eastern Europe,<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.gametrailers.com/player/27428.html | title=GameTrailers.com - GameHead - New Locations in MGS4|accessdate=2007-11-05|date=2007-11-03}}</ref> Shadow Moses Island, and Outer Haven.

====Act 1 - Liquid Sun====
Snake begins his mission by infiltrating a war-torn Middle Eastern city with a local militia convoy. The militia is locked in conflict with troops from Praying Mantis, one of Liquid's PMCs. After the convoy is decimated by ''Praying Mantis'' troops and Gekko (a mass-produced, bipedal Metal Gear variant) units, Snake meets up with the Metal Gear Mk. II, a robotic drone Otacon developed to assist him remotely, and receives orders to meet up with Campbell's informants, Rat Patrol Team 01. On the way to the rendezvous point, Snake encounters Drebin 893, a self-proclaimed ArmsTech employee who offers his gun laundering services. Snake accepts after much hesitation, and Drebin injects him with what he says are merely "suppressor nanomachines". After their meeting, Snake rendezvous with Rat Patrol in the abandoned Advent Palace hotel and is shocked to learn that [[Meryl Silverburgh]] is the team's leader. After Snake and Meryl discuss their assignments and pasts, Advent Palace is raided by Liquid's elite soldiers, the FROGs. Rat Patrol, with Snake's help, escapes the building. Snake continues towards the main ''Praying Mantis'' camp, where he sights Liquid, and prepares his assassination attempt. Before he can carry out his objective, an unknown force causes all of the soldiers in the area to collapse in pain and begin violently attacking each other. The nearby members of Rat Patrol are also affected. As Liquid escapes in his helicopter, Snake also collapses, but as his vision fades, he is approached by [[Naomi Hunter|Dr. Naomi Hunter]], who gives him a syringe. Snake is carried away to safety by [[List of recurring Metal Gear characters#Johnny|Johnny Sasaki]], the lone unaffected member of Meryl's team.

====Act 2 - Solid Sun====
Following Snake's rescue, [[Otacon]] receives an encoded message from Naomi, which explains that she is being held captive in South America. Snake plans to take advantage of a rebel uprising in the area to sneak into the base of ''Pieuvre Armement'', another of Liquid's PMCs, where Naomi is being held. Snake infiltrates the area and once again encounters Drebin, who reveals that [[List of recurring characters in the Metal Gear series#The Patriots|The Patriots]] are actually a network of five [[artificial intelligence|AI]]s. Four AIs are named after US Presidents: [[George Washington|GW]], [[Thomas Jefferson|TJ]], [[Theodore Roosevelt|TR]] and [[Abraham Lincoln|AL]]. These are controlled and regulated by the 5th AI named JD (John Doe), the core AI. After Snake finds Naomi, she explains that Liquid is planning to use [[Big Boss (Metal Gear)|Big Boss's]] genetic information to access [[John Doe|JD]] and take control of SOP (Sons of the Patriots), the system of nanomachines and ID-authentications which allow the Patriots to monitor and control soldiers. She also explains that Snake's aging is due to intentional gene manipulation of Big Boss's clones, and that he will have a shortened lifespan; she estimates that he has less than 6 months left to live.<ref>Naomi's reference to Snake having "half a year" is in reference to the FOXDIE, not to his natural lifespan: '''Snake:''' How long do I have? '''Naomi:'''...Half a year...There's something I have to tell you. '''Snake:''' Now what? '''Naomi:''' You and I both know your body is approaching its limit. When I said another half a year, I wasn't talking about your lifespan. ''(Metal Gear Solid 4)''</ref> However, his shortened lifespan is less of a concern to Naomi than the fact that the FOXDIE virus in Snake's body has begun to mutate. She estimates that in 3 months the virus will have become mutated enough to attack anyone, not just the people it was programmed to target; he has become ''"a walking biological weapon"''. After Snake defeats Beauty and the Beast Corps. member Laughing Octopus, Snake and Naomi escape with Drebin, defended by [[Raiden (Metal Gear)|Raiden]], who mysteriously resurfaces as a Cyborg Ninja after disappearing for several years. Raiden holds off numerous [[Metal Gear (weapon)#Related weapons|Gekkos]] and a resurrected [[Vamp (Metal Gear)|Vamp]] while Otacon rescues Snake and Naomi via helicopter, but is seriously wounded in the process. Raiden leaps onto the helicopter but soon loses consciousness; before he blacks out, he tells Snake to go meet "Big Mama", the leader of a resistance group based in Eastern Europe.

====Act 3 - Third Sun====
On the Nomad, Naomi explains that Big Boss is in fact alive, although [[Brain death|brain dead]]. His body is in the control of the resistance group ''Paradise Lost'' in [[Eastern Europe]]. While Snake locates the group, Naomi and Sunny take Raiden to get his required [[dialysis]] from Dr. Madnar. By stalking a ''Paradise Lost'' member Snake manages to find their leader, Big Mama, who reveals herself to be [[List of recurring Metal Gear characters#EVA|EVA]], and the surrogate mother of both Liquid Snake and Solid Snake himself. She explains the origins of the Patriots, founded by [[Major Zero]] forty years ago. After the Raven Sword PMC, led by Raging Raven, suddenly attacks the group's hideout, Snake and Big Mama escape on a motorcycle, along with decoy vans to keep the attackers from finding Big Boss's body. At the end of the chase, the motorcycle crashes, and Big Mama is wounded. After battling and defeating Raging Raven, Snake helps Big Mama escape down a sewer connecting to the [[Vltava River]], where Liquid is waiting for them, and displays his power over SOP by incapacitating an entire army of American troops using his ability to lock down the system controlling their nanomachines. He incinerates Big Boss' body, and Big Mama is severely burned attempting to rescue him. The left side of Snake's face is also badly burned as he rescues her from the flames. As Liquid makes his escape in a gunboat down the river, Big Mama dies in Snake's arms.

====Act 4 - Twin Suns====
Liquid's final plan is to destroy JD, the Patriot's core AI, so that he may seize control of the Patriots' network with GW (which Liquid apparently repaired and took control of shortly after the Manhattan incident). To this end, Liquid plans to use the only [[Weapon of mass destruction|WMDs]] still not controlled by the Patriots - the stealth warheads launched by [[Metal Gear (weapon)#Metal Gear REX|Metal Gear REX's]] rail gun - to fire a nuclear warhead at JD, which is housed within a satellite disguised as orbital debris. Snake returns to [[Shadow Moses Island]], where REX has remained in the nine years after the events of [[Metal Gear Solid]], to stop Liquid from stealing it. After defeating Crying Wolf and a squadron of FROGs, Snake approaches Metal Gear REX to find that its Rail Gun has already been removed. In the hangar, Snake is attacked by Vamp (accompanied by Naomi, who had escaped the Nomad and defected back to Liquid's side) until the timely arrival of Raiden. Snake suppresses the nanomachines in Vamp's body that cause his apparent immortality, and fights off a unit of Suicide Gekko while Raiden finally defeats and kills Vamp. Naomi, filled with guilt and remorse over all the sins she has committed during her lifetime, ends her own life by disabling the nanomachines that had been previously suppressing the effects of the [[cancer]] that would have normally killed her years ago. Using the Mk. III, Otacon manages to reactivate REX, and Snake and Raiden pilot it to escape the building just as the Suicide Gekko self-destruct. Raiden, defending from the rear, becomes trapped underneath a large pile of rubble, while Snake uses REX to fight [[Metal Gear (weapon)#Metal Gear RAY|Metal Gear RAY]], piloted by Liquid. After the fight Liquid reveals his ultimate weapon: a battleship based on stolen Arsenal Gear prototype blueprints, named "Outer Haven", with REX's Rail Gun mounted on it. Liquid attempts to crush the crippled Snake by ramming the ship into the dockside, but Raiden cuts off his own arm to escape the rubble and is able to restrain the ship temporarily, allowing Snake to escape with his life but crushing Raiden in the process.

====Act 5 - Old Sun====
Aboard the re-commissioned battleship [[USS Missouri (BB-63)|USS Missouri]], Mei Ling plans to catch up with Outer Haven, which needs to wait until it is as physically close to JD's satellite as possible in order to get the most precise shot from the Rail Gun. A strike team consisting of Snake, Meryl and Johnny is created in order to infiltrate GW's physical processor and upload a computer virus that will destroy the AI. Infiltrating the vessel, Snake defeats Screaming Mantis, who is revealed to have the implanted personality of [[Psycho Mantis]]. Meryl and Johnny stay to hold off swarms of FROG units as Snake approaches the final corridor to GW, where he is ambushed by FROGs but saved once again by Raiden, who is still alive but missing both arms. Snake makes his way through the corridor, which is lined with [[Microwave oven|microwave emitters]] that nearly burn him alive. Though Snake is severely weakened by the heat exposure and overwhelmed by mobs of countless Dwarf Gekko, Otacon takes control of the Mk. III to upload the virus. The virus unexpectedly uses GW as a conduit to infect the whole AI network, destroying all five Patriot AIs, disabling SOP and all military systems implementing it worldwide, including Liquid's, saving the lives of Raiden, Meryl, Johnny and all personnel aboard the Missouri who were under attack from Outer Haven. A video recording of Naomi set to play back after the destruction of the Patriots explains to Snake and Otacon that SOP was just the beginning of the Patriots' plans, and that they had intended to implement nanomachine personality control worldwide. She goes on to explain that she and Sunny designed the virus as the antithesis to FOXDIE; as the nanomachines used in SOP were technological derivatives of Naomi's FOXDIE, the new virus would atone for Naomi's mistake by shutting down the nanomachine system. For this reason, the new virus was named 'FOXALIVE'. Sunny's programming also made sure that in destroying the Patriot AIs, SOP and the war economy, FOXALIVE would preserve the systems controlling vital and benign world infrastructures such as [[water]], [[air]], [[telecommunications]] and the [[internet]].

The [[USMC|U.S. Marines]] easily take over the now-defenseless Outer Haven, its unmanned units deactivated and its soldiers in a state of withdrawal from the SOP nanomachines. In the confusion, Liquid Ocelot takes Snake to the [[Sail (submarine)|sail]] of Outer Haven and thanks him for accomplishing Liquid's own goals. His plan to use REX's rail gun was just a diversion so that Snake's own attempts to bring down the system would go unnoticed by the Patriots, who had anticipated Snake protecting them by stopping Liquid. Ocelot had allowed the will of Liquid to live on within his body through the use of hypnosis and auto-suggestion, perpetuating both Liquid's own agenda against the Patriots, as well as the feud between the two sons of Big Boss. Ocelot allowed Liquid's personality to carry out its plan against the Patriots, knowing that JD would be allocating its resources into stopping Liquid and not into preventing the upload of FOXALIVE. After this revelation, Liquid's personality declares that they have 'a score to settle', and acts upon his final wish within Ocelot's body for the sons of Big Boss to engage in one final unarmed fight on top of Outer Haven. As Snake and Liquid wage their brutal fist fight, Ocelot's personality gradually resurfaces, culminating in the use of his trademark hand gestures. His last words are ''"You're pretty good..."'', echoing his taunts against both Solid Snake and Big Boss during the events of ''[[Metal Gear Solid]]'' and ''[[Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater]]''.

====Epilogue - Naked Sin====
In the epilogue, Meryl and Johnny get married. Their wedding, held on an airfield, is attended by the members of Rat Patrol, Otacon, Sunny, Drebin, Mei Ling and Campbell. Meryl reconciles with Campbell and finally accepts him as her father. Raiden's body is freed from the machinations of the Patriots and is back to its original form, and he reunites with his ex-fiancée Rosemary and their son, John(voiced by [[Nika Futterman]]), whom Rosemary has lied about miscarrying. Rosemary reveals that her marriage to Roy Campbell was a charade to keep her and John protected from the Patriots during the course of Raiden's mission. The scene changes to Snake, where he attempts to commit suicide by [[gunshot]] in the graveyard housing the graves of Big Boss and [[List of Metal Gear Solid 3 characters#The Boss|The Boss]] in order to prevent his mutated FOXDIE strain from spreading further, stating that killing himself is his "final mission." Meanwhile, Drebin reveals to Otacon that he was a child soldier who was adopted by the Patriots with the intention of raising him to become a gun launderer. He also explains that Rat Patrol 01 (which, in its shortened form ("RAT PT 01"), is an anagram of "PATR1OT") had been manipulated by the Patriots from behind the scenes as well. Sunny gives the Mk. III to a local boy (her first "outside friend"), and asks Otacon where Snake is, to which Otacon - knowing that Snake has gone to commit suicide - replies tearfully that "Snake had a hard life" and "needs some time to rest".

====Debriefing - Naked Son====
Back at the cemetery, it is revealed that Snake fired the gun in another direction, and didn't kill himself. A familiar voice approaches Snake and encourages him not to kill himself. A bewildered Snake turns around to find Big Boss standing before him. He starts to approach Snake, and suddenly gives him a fatherly hug. Big Boss tells Snake that the body burned on the [[Volta]] was actually that of [[Solidus Snake]] (as both he and Big Boss had an identical genetic code), and that he was reconstructed with surgery using parts from both Solidus and Liquid's bodies, and kept alive with extensive nanotechnology similar to that used to restrain the members of the B&B Corps. He brings Major Zero along with him, who is now an elderly 105 years old and confined to a wheelchair in his vegetative state.

Big Boss explains that he and Zero founded the Patriots as an interpretation of [[The Boss (character)|The Boss']] will, along with EVA, Ocelot, [[List of Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater characters#Sigint|Sigint]] and [[List of Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake_Eater characters#Para-Medic|Para-Medic]]. As the Patriots became more and more influential in society, Zero became a megalomaniac, obsessed with uniformity and erasing individuality, leading Big Boss to become disaffected enough to leave the Patriots and form [[Outer Heaven]] as another interpretation of The Boss' will. Big Boss was followed out of the Patriots by EVA and Ocelot, who joined him in his struggle to end the Patriots. As Zero became elderly, control of the Patriots was increasingly left in the hands of JD and the proxy AIs, who further misinterpreted Zero's will and completely alienated themselves from the original will of The Boss. JD sought ways to control the masses through manipulation of the economy, (which lead to the War Economy), digital information (which lead to the creation of Arsenal Gear) and eventually personalities (which became the SOP system). He goes on to explain that Ocelot willingly used hypnosis, nanomachines and psychotherapy to assimilate the personality of Liquid Snake, in order to fool the system and propagate the feud between the sons of Big Boss. He takes it upon himself to "send Zero back to nothing", and [[euthanasia|euthanize]]s Zero by turning off his life support.

Big Boss reveals that the injection given to Snake by Drebin in Act 1 included a new strain of FOXDIE, created by the proxy AIs in order to kill the surviving defectors of the Patriots, explaining the deaths of EVA and Ocelot. Big Boss also relays Naomi's message that the new FOXDIE strain has neutralized the older strain, meaning that Snake is no longer in danger of becoming a biological weapon. After telling Snake this, Big Boss also reveals that the newer FOXDIE is already affecting him, and that he, Big Boss, is being attacked one last time by the Patriots through Snake.<ref>'''Big Boss:'''They did it again. They used you to kill me. The Patriots. No, their proxies. ''(Metal Gear Solid 4)''</ref> He finally makes peace with Snake before dying on The Boss' gravestone, his last words being: ''"This is good... Isn't it?"''

In the [[post-credits scene|post-credits dialogue]], Snake explains to Otacon that he will spend his remaining days attempting to simply live his life (and has also quit smoking). Otacon wishes to come with him in order to [[chronicle]] the last days of Solid Snake. Snake initially refuses - but with some persuasion he ultimately relents, allowing Otacon and possibly Sunny to accompany him.

==Development==
{{Expand-section|date=June 2008}}
[[Hideo Kojima]] announced that he would be retiring as director of the ''Metal Gear'' series after ''[[Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater]]'', and would leave his position open to another person for ''Metal Gear Solid 4''. As a joke, the new director was announced as "[[Alan Smithee]]", but in ''R'', a 400-page book bundled with ''Metal Gear Solid 3''<nowiki></nowiki>'s Japanese "Premium Package", the director was revealed to be Shuyo Murata, co-writer of ''MGS3'' and director of ''[[Zone of the Enders: The 2nd Runner]]''. He has also contributed humorous [[Easter egg (media)|Easter eggs]] to ''Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty'' and ''[[Metal Gear: Ghost Babel]]''. However, it was announced that Kojima would be co-directing the game with Murata after substantial negative fan reaction, including [[death threat]]s.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.ps3today.com/Blogs/News/hqs/blr_957.aspx | title=Sony PS3 News : MGS Creator Received Death Threats | accessdate=2007-08-03}}</ref>

The title was described as "essentially finished" by January 2008, and went through extensive [[beta testing]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://ps3.ign.com/articles/844/844855p1.html|title=IGN: Metal Gear Solid 4 Almost Done|accessdate=2008-04-19|date=2008-01-10|publisher=IGN|author=Jeff Haynes}}</ref> At Destination PlayStation on [[February 26]], [[2008]], Sony announced that ''MGS4'' would be released worldwide on [[June 12]], [[2008]], along with the special ''MGS4'' PlayStation 3 bundle.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://kotaku.com/360906/metal-gear-solid-4-finally-has-a-release-date|title= Kotaku|author=Kotaku|date=}}</ref>

''Guns of the Patriots'' is the first PS3 game that uses a full 50GB dual layer [[Blu-ray Disc]] through extensive efforts in data compression.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.kjp.konami.jp/gs/hideoblog_e/2008/02/000150.html|title=The KOJIMA production report session 081|author=KOJIMA PRODUCTIONS - HIDEOBLOG (English)|date=2008-02-19}}</ref>

Originally, one of Kojima's endings for the game would have had [[Solid Snake|Snake]] and [[List of recurring Metal Gear characters#Hal Emmerich|Otacon]] turn themselves in for breaking the law, and subsequently they would be convicted and executed,<ref>[http://www.gamespot.com/news/6179757.html TGS '07: Kojima speaks - PlayStation 3 News at GameSpot<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> but this idea was vetoed by his team.

==Soundtrack==
<!-- Please do NOT delete/edit text in this section if a or multiple sources are cited for the following given information and/or is taken from a video game screenshot/trailer in which this article associates with. -->
{{main article|Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots Original Soundtrack}}
The score to ''Metal Gear Solid 4'' was led by [[Harry Gregson-Williams]], his third ''Metal Gear Solid'' soundtrack,<ref name="musiccreditsharry">{{cite web | year=2006 | url=http://uk.gamespot.com/news/6158568.html?sid=6158568 | title=TGS 06:Kojima On Metal Gear | work=[http://www.gamespot.com Gamespot] | accessmonthday=22 January | accessyear=2007}}</ref> and Nobuko Toda, who provided music for ''[[Metal Gear Acid]]'' and ''[[Metal Gear Acid 2]]''.<ref name="musiccreditstoda">{{cite web | year=2006 | url=http://www.konami.jp/kojima_pro/showmaybe/big.php?no=4&side=0 | title=Kojima Productions - M4 Show Maybe? | work=[http://www.konami.jp Konami Computer Entertainment] | accessmonthday=22 January | accessyear=2007}}</ref> Directed by [[Norihiko Hibino]], GEM Impact employees Yoshitaka Suzuki and Takahiro Izutani also made compositions late in the game's production.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.squareenixmusic.com/musicnews2.php?subaction=showfull&id=1205323475&archive=&start_from=&ucat=2&|title=Norihiko Hibino Confirmed for Metal Gear Solid 4 in New Interview|accessdate=2008-05-12|date=2008-03-12}}</ref> Other contributors are Konami employees Shuichi Kobori, Kazuma Jinnouchi, Akihiro Honda, and Sota Fujimori.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.squareenixmusic.com/musicnews2.php?subaction=showfull&id=1210557314&archive=&start_from=&ucat=2&|title=Metal Gear Solid 4 Track Listings and Artist Details Revealed|accessdate=2008-05-12|date=2008-05-12}}</ref>

There are two vocal themes for the game. The opening theme, "Love Theme", is sung by Jackie Presti and composed by Nobuko Toda. The ending theme, "Here's To You", is sung by Lisbeth Scott. Before the release of the game, "MGS4 - Theme of Love - Smash Bros. Brawl Version" was provided for ''[[Super Smash Bros. Brawl]]'' in the Shadow Moses Island level.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.smashbros.com/en_us/music/music11.html|title=Metal Gear Solid: MGS4 ~ Theme of Love ~ Smash Bros. Brawl Version|accessdate=2008-03-12|date=2007-09-21}}</ref>

The official soundtrack was released on [[May 28]], [[2008]] by Konami Digital Entertainment under the catalog number GFCA-98/9.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.squareenixmusic.com/musicnews2.php?subaction=showfull&id=1206555154&archive=&start_from=&ucat=2&|title=Metal Gear Solid 4 Guns of the Patriots Original Soundtrack Confirmed|accessdate=2008-05-12|date=2008-03-25}}</ref> It consists of two discs of music and 47 tracks. A soundtrack album was also packaged with ''Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots Limited Edition''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.squareenixmusic.com/musicnews2.php?subaction=showfull&id=1208090921&archive=&start_from=&ucat=2&|title=Metal Gear Solid 4 Guns of the Patriots Limited Edition Packaged With Soundtrack|accessdate=2008-05-12|date=2008-04-13}}</ref>

==Marketing==
At a press conference on [[May 13]], [[2008]], [[Hideo Kojima]] announced a marketing campaign and agreements with several companies to promote the game. [[Apple Inc.|Apple]] computers and monitors feature in the game and an [[Apple Inc.|Apple]] [[iPod]] is an in-game item that Snake can use to change the background music, listen to in-game podcasts and collect hidden [[song]]s scattered throughout the game. [[ReGain]] Energy Drinks are used in the game as a Psyche gauge booster, and [[Sony Ericsson]] [[mobile phone]]s are used.<ref>{{cite web | year=2008 | url=http://ps3.ign.com/articles/873/873465p1.html?RSSwhen2008-05-13_010600&RSSid=873465 | title=Metal Gear Solid 4 Meets iPod | work=[http://www.ign.com IGN] | accessmonthday=13 May | accessyear=2008}}</ref>

[[Konami]] and [[Ubisoft]] put an unlockable costume in the game for Snake, [[Altaïr]] from the Ubisoft stealth game [[Assassin's Creed]]. Initially revealed on [[April Fool's Day]] 2008, Kojima later announced that it would actually be in the game, unlockable by doing "something special". To obtain the attire, the player must acquire the "Assassin Emblem", a nod to the game's title.<ref>[http://ps3.ign.com/articles/873/873462p1.html IGN: Assassin's Solid Becomes a Reality<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>

Konami had originally planned to organize grand launch events in Tokyo, but some of them were canceled with the "safety of participants in mind" in light of the [[Akihabara massacre]] on [[8 June]] [[2008]].<ref name="time-jun11">{{cite news|url=http://www.time.com/time/world/article/0,8599,1813463,00.html |title=Tokyo Suspect Had Several Knives |publisher=[[Time (Magazine)]] ([[Associated Press]])|author=Yuasa, Shino|date=2008-06-11|accessdate=2008-06-11}}</ref><ref name="mainichi-jun11a">{{cite news|url=http://mainichi.jp/enta/mantan/news/20080611mog00m200003000c.html |title=秋葉原殺傷：コナミ　「メタルギア」の発売記念イベント中止　「安全性を考慮」 Konami cancels 'Metal Gear Solid' release events following Akihabara stabbing spree |publisher=[[Mainichi Shimbun]]|date=2008-06-11|accessdate=2008-06-11|language=Japanese}}</ref>

==Versions and releases==
===Limited Edition===
''Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots Limited Edition'' was released simultaneously with the game's standard edition, as an enhanced counterpart. The limited edition contains ''Guns of the Patriots'', a box with artwork by [[Yoji Shinkawa]], a Blu-ray containing two "making of" documentaries, and the game soundtrack. The Limited Edition was available exclusively at [[GameStop]] in the United States and [[EB Games]] in Canada,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://ps3.ign.com/articles/865/865741p1.html|title=MGS4 Limited Edition Details|publisher=IGN|accessdate=2008-04-18|date=2008-04-10}}</ref> while a similar bundle with an additional 6-inch 'Olive Drab' Old Snake Figurine was made available at [[Play.com]] in the United Kingdom. <ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.play.com/Games/PlayStation3/4-/5500791/Metal-Gear-Solid-4-Guns-Of-The-Patriots-Limited-Edition/Product.html|title=MGS4 Special Edition Preorder Details|publisher=Play.com|accessdate=2008-05-11}}</ref>

===Console bundles===
In North America, a bundle containing an 80GB PlayStation 3, a [[DualShock#DualShock 3|DualShock 3]] wireless controller, a downloadable game coupon from PSN (Pain) and a copy of ''Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots'' was released for [[United States dollar|US$]]499 on [[June 12]] [[2008]] to coincide with the release of the standalone edition.<ref name="BUNDLE">{{cite web|url=http://kotaku.com/360906/metal-gear-solid-4-finally-has-a-release-date|title=Metal Gear Solid 4 Finally Has A Release Date}}</ref> Japan will see the release of the ''Guns of the Patriots Welcome Box'' that contains the game itself, a DualShock 3 controller, and a 40GB PS3 in either black, white or silver.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.scei.co.jp/corporate/release/080502be.html|title=SCEJ TO INTRODUCE "PLAYSTATION3 METAL GEAR SOLID 4 GUNS OF THE PATRIOTS WELCOME BOX with DUALSHOCK&3"|accessdate=2008-05-22|date=2008-05-02}}</ref>

Sony has also announced a limited edition pre-order bundle containing ''Guns of the Patriots Limited Edition'' and a matte grey (officially titled Gunmetal Grey) 40GB PlayStation 3. First announced in Japan on [[March 18]], [[2008]] at a cost of [[Japanese yen|¥]]51,800<ref name="japanese_bundle">{{cite web|url=http://ps3.ign.com/articles/861/861294p1.html|title=First Look: Japanese MGS4 Packaging|publisher=IGN|accessdate=2008-03-25|date=2008-03-20}}</ref> the bundle sold out within six days from [[March 20]] [[2008]] to [[March 25]] [[2008]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamingbits.com/content/view/3738/2/|title=First Limited Edition Metal Gear Solid 4 PS3 Bundle Sells Out In Japan; MGS4 LE Priced At $84.99|publisher=GamingBits|accessdate=2008-03-26|date=2008-03-25}}</ref> An identical bundle was available in North America for pre-order on [[May 19]], [[2008]] in "very limited" supply for US$600 at Konami's official website.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamepro.com/news.cfm?article_id=184948|title=Metal Gear Solid 4 PS3 bundle orders begin May 19...only on Konami.com|accessdate=2008-05-17|date=2008-05-16}}</ref>
David Reeves has announced a similar bundle for Europe which includes a 40GB PlayStation 3, the game itself and a Sixaxis controller.

==Related products==
===''Metal Gear Online''===
<!-- Please do NOT delete/edit text in this section if a or multiple sources are cited for the following given information and/or is taken from a video game screenshot/trailer in which this article associates with. -->
{{main|Metal Gear Online}}
'''''Metal Gear Online''''' (commonly abbreviated to '''''MGO''''') is the online component of ''Metal Gear Solid 4''. The game features 16-player online stealth battles, encouraging players to engage heavily in teamwork. ''MGO'' is distributed with ''MGS4'' in the form of a starter pack, and will eventually see a stand-alone release. The game will also be expanded through downloadable content via the [[PlayStation Network]], potentially for up to 10 years.<ref name="ign_tgs">{{cite web|url=http://ps3.ign.com/articles/821/821512p1.html|title=TGS 2007: A Decade of Metal Gear Online|author=Anoop Gantayat|accessdate=2007-10-16|date=2007-09-22}}</ref>

The game was in [[Software release life cycle#Beta|beta testing]] in [[Japan]] from [[August 20]] [[2007]] to [[September 3]] [[2007]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://ps3.ign.com/articles/807/807558p1.html|title=Metal Gear Online Beta Information|last=Miller|first=Greg |date=[[July 24]], [[2007]]|publisher=IGN|language=English|accessdate=2008-08-10}}</ref>; around 3,000 people were selected to join the test sessions. A further beta test was then announced for release in April [[2008]]. US and Canadian customers who pre-ordered ''Metal Gear Solid 4'' in April received an "invite code" along with their documentary DVD, whilst European PlayStation 3 owners were able to download the beta from the [[PlayStation Store]]. <ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.konami.jp/mgo/en/index.html|title= METAL GEAR ONLINE TEASER SITE - ENGLISH U.K|website=www.konami.jp|date=2008-04-11|accessdate=2008-04-11}}</ref> However, due to many technical difficulties - including busy registration and login servers - it was postponed to [[April 25]] [[2008]] and continued until [[May 11]] [[2008]], promptly shutting down at midnight PST. It then returned on [[June 12]] [[2008]] for the world-wide release of ''MGS4''.<ref name="official_date" />

''Metal Gear Online'' is region locked and players can only play others in their own region.<ref name=Metal Gear Online Region Locked>{{cite web|url=http://talkplaystation.com/metal-gear-online-region-locked/|title=Metal Gear Online Region Locked}}</ref>
{{-}}

===Database===
On [[19 June]] [[2008]], Konami released the ''Metal Gear Solid 4: Database'' onto the PlayStation Store in North America and Japan<ref name=PlayStation.BlogArticle>{{cite web|url=http://blog.us.PlayStation.com/2008/06/18/metal-gear-solid-4-guns-of-the-patriots-database-on-the-way/|title=Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots Database on the way!|accessdate=2008-06-18|author=Brandon Laurino|publisher=[[SCEA]]|date=2008-06-18}}</ref>, and one week later on the European store. The Database is a downloadable application for PlayStation 3 that catalogues every piece of ''Metal Gear'' lore from all seven [[canonical]] entries in the series, in the form of an encyclopedia (browsable by alphabet and category), a timeline, and character relationship diagrams. Highlighted words in each article links to related articles, and it keeps track of which ones the user has already read. The Database automatically locks any items related to ''MGS4'', in order to prevent the leaking of spoilers to those who have not beaten the game. In order to reveal these articles, the user must have a completed ''MGS4'' game save that was created on the same console. The encyclopedia uses the same interface as the one featured in the supplemental discs for the 3DO and PlayStation versions of ''[[Policenauts]]'', as well as in the Saturn version of the full game.

== Reception ==
===Critical reception===
{{VG Reviews
| title = Metal Gear Solid 4 Game Reviews
| CVG = 9.5/10<ref name=cvgreview>{{cite web|url=http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=189974|title=Review: Metal Gear Solid 4|accessdate=2008-06-12|author=Daniel Dawkins|publisher=[[Computer and Video Games]]|date=2008-06-12}}</ref>
| Edge = 8/10<ref name=EdgeReview>{{cite journal|title=[http://www.next-gen.biz/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=10748&Itemid=2 Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots review]|author=Edge staff|journal=[[Edge (magazine)|Edge]]|year=2008|month=July|issue=190|pages=86–87|issn=1350-1593}}</ref>
| EGM = A-<ref name=1UPreview>{{cite web|url=http://www.1up.com/do/reviewPage?cId=3168151|title=Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots review|accessdate=2008-06-12|author=Jeremy Parish|publisher=[[1UP.com]]|date=2008-06-12}}</ref>
| EuroG = 8/10<ref name=Eurogamer>[http://www.eurogamer.net/article.php?article_id=143797 Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots Review - Page 1 // PS3 /// Eurogamer - Games Reviews, News and More<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>
| Fam = 40/40
| GamePro = 5/5<ref>[http://www.gamepro.com/sony/ps3/games/reviews/191708.shtml GamePro Review]</ref>
| GMaster = 97%<ref>[http://www.ps3forums.com/showthread.php?t=142224 GameMaster Review]</ref>
| GI = 10/10<ref>[http://www.gameinformer.com/Games/Review/200807/R08.0612.1035.44270.htm GameInformer: Metal Gear Solid 4 Review]</ref>
| GSpot = 10/10 <ref>[http://www.gamespot.com/ps3/adventure/metalgearsolid4/review.html?tag=topslot;title;1&om_act=convert&om_clk=topslot Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots for PlayStation 3 Review - PlayStation 3 Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots Review<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>
| GT = 9.3/10<ref>[http://www.gametrailers.com/player/35051.html GameTrailers Review]</ref>
| IGN = 10/10<ref>[http://ps3.ign.com/articles/881/881472p5.html IGN: Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots Review<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>
| OPMUK = 10/10
| PSM3 = 9/10<ref name=PSM3>{{cite web|url=http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=189974|title=Metal Gear Solid 4 Review|author=Daniel Dawkins|date=2008-05-30|accessdate=2008-08-02|publisher=[[PSM3]]}}</ref>
| XPlay = 5/5<ref>[http://www.g4tv.com/xplay/reviews/1794/Metal_Gear_Solid_4_Guns_of_the_Patriots.html G4 - X-Play - Reviews<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>
| MC = 94% (71 reviews)<ref name=mc>{{cite web|url=http://www.metacritic.com/games/platforms/ps3/metalgearsolid4gunsofthepatriots |title=Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots (PS3: 2008): Reviews |accessdate=2008-06-04 |publisher=[[Metacritic]]}}</ref>
| GR = 93% (67 reviews)<ref name=gr>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamerankings.com/htmlpages2/926596.asp |title=Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots}}</ref>
}}
''Metal Gear Solid 4'' has received high critical acclaim, with a 94% aggregate rating at Metacritic<ref name=mc /> and a 93% aggregate rating on Game Rankings<ref name=gr />. The first review was a 10/10 from ''[[PlayStation Official Magazine]]'' (UK), commenting "[MGS4] shifts gears constantly, innovating again and again".<ref>{{cite web| title = First Official Metal Gear Solid 4 Review| url =
http://kotaku.com/5008693/first-official-metal-gear-solid-4-review| publisher = [[Kotaku]]| author = Ashcraft, Brian| date = 2008-05-12| accessdate = 2008-05-13}}</ref> The game has been awarded 10/10 from ''Game Informer''<ref>[http://www.gameinformer.com/NR/exeres/2D4F368A-D4FA-4FE6-B02F-DEBCFA6B6433.htm Game Informer Review]</ref> and a 5/5 in all catgories(graphics, control, sound, and fun factor) from ''GamePro''.<ref>[http://www.gamepro.com/sony/ps3/games/reviews/191668.shtml Review: Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots for PS3 on GamePro.com<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> The game also received perfect scores from ''[[PlayStation: The Official Magazine]]'' (5/5)<ref>[http://uk.gamespot.com/ps3/adventure/metalgearsolid4/review.html?mode=web Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots for PlayStation 3 Reviews - PlayStation 3 Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots Reviews<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>, [[Japanese]] magazine ''[[Famitsu]]'' (40/40)<ref>[http://wiieveryday.blogspot.com/2008/06/famitsu-20080606.html Wii @ Everyday: famitsu 20080606<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> and ''[[Empire (magazine)|Empire]]''<ref>[http://www.empireonline.com/reviews/reviewcomplete.asp?GID=527 EmpireOnline Review]</ref>. The game received a 9.9/10 from [[IGN]] UK<ref name=IGNUK >[http://uk.ps3.ign.com/articles/877/877611p1.html] IGN UK ''Metal Gear Solid 4'' review</ref>, a 9.5/10 from IGN AU<ref name=IGNAU>[http://ps3.ign.com/articles/879/879429p1.html] IGN AU ''Metal Gear Solid 4'' review.</ref>, and a 10/10 from IGN. IGN was quoted in a video review, saying MGS4 is "one of the best games ever made".<ref>[http://ps3.ign.com/dor/objects/714044/metal-gear-solid-4/videos/MGS4_vidreview_061208.html IGN Video: Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots PlayStation 3 Review - Video Review<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> ''[[Edge (magazine)|Edge]]''<ref name=EdgeReview/> and ''[[Eurogamer]]''<ref name=Eurogamer/> both gave the game 8/10. [[GameSpot]] gave it a perfect 10/10 saying "Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots is the most technically stunning video game ever made."<ref>[http://www.gamespot.com/ps3/adventure/metalgearsolid4/review.html Gamespot MGS4 review]</ref>

Reviewers were unanimous in approval of the way the title continues and concludes the series. ''Eurogamer'' stated that "You could not ask for a funnier, cleverer, more ambitious or inspired or over-the-top conclusion",<ref name=Eurogamer /> and IGN AU found that the result "refines the MGS formula and introduces just enough new (or respectfully influenced) ideas to ensure that it stands on its own as a game".<ref name=IGNAU /> ''Edge'' concluded that "it is faithful to its fans, its premise and its heart, delivering an experience that is, in so many ways, without equal",<ref name=EdgeReview /> while IGN UK describe it simply as "the ultimate Metal Gear game" and "a dazzling, heart-lifting, voyage of discovery".<ref name=IGNUK />

The new control scheme ("the ideal balance of intuitivness and range"),<ref name=EdgeReview /> camouflage system<ref name=IGNUK /><ref name=EdgeReview /> and shift to more free-form, "replayable" gameplay (in particular the Drebin Points system and alternatives to "stealthy" play)<ref name=IGNUK /><ref name=EdgeReview /> were particularly highly praised with a few minor annoyances.<ref name=IGNAU /> The variety of set-piece events, details such as the "psyche" meter, and healthy provision of secrets were also remarked upon.<ref name=IGNUK /><ref name=EdgeReview /> Eurogamer tempered their overall praise with concern that one of the chapters may induce "ennui", but noted that the game quickly recovered,<ref name=Eurogamer /> while ''Edge'' expressed mild disappointment that the "Beauty and the Beast" unit compare poorly to the previous title's main foes, the "Cobra Unit".<ref name=EdgeReview />

The game was also lauded for its technological and artistic achievements, with ''Edge'' describing the "Otacon" character as "the real star", and "a gaming revolution" while they found the game's score to be superior to that of many Hollywood offerings. The magazine felt that the few visual shortfalls (such as texture detail) did nothing to detract from the game's overall quality.<ref name=EdgeReview /> IGN UK comment that the attention to detail in both visuals and audio represent "sublime brilliance", and remark upon innovations such as the use of split-screen.<ref name=IGNUK />

Criticism of the game was largely leveled at the storyline, which reviewers found at times to be confusing<ref name=Eurogamer /><ref name=IGNAU /> or poorly executed<ref name=IGNUK /> and with IGN UK advising players to revisit the earlier titles for clarity.<ref name=IGNUK /> However the overall result was praised as emotionally engaging and topical, and characters such as Liquid Ocelot were singled out for the quality of their depiction.<ref name=Eurogamer /><ref name=IGNUK /><ref name=EdgeReview /> It was generally conceded that although the use of [[cut scenes]] is more intrusive than it needs to be (comprising "about half of the content of the game" by one estimate, and which "might make you crave action, or wonder why they couldn't have been turned into interactive sequences"),<ref name=IGNUK /> the style is somewhat appropriate given the rest of the series<ref name=IGNAU /> ("in many ways it's a vindication of Kojima's unique interpretation of the videogame medium"<ref name=IGNUK />) and unlikely to trouble fans.<ref name=EdgeReview /> The addition of a pause function for these story sequences was universally welcomed.<ref name=Eurogamer /><ref name=IGNAU /><ref name=IGNUK />

''Edge'' and ''Eurogamer'' alike concluded that although the game represents an [[apotheosis]] of the series style, it ultimately fails to revitalise it, and will not win over new fans.<ref name=Eurogamer /><ref name=EdgeReview /> IGN UK were concerned that the game's [[hype]] and widespread praise may lead to disappointment, but feel that objectively, the game is a "masterpiece".<ref name=IGNUK />

====Konami review limitations====
Several publications have commented<ref name="egmdelay">[http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/02/egm-delays-mgs4-reviews-konamis-limitations-cited/ EGM delays MGS4 reviews, Konami's 'limitations' cited] at [[joystiq]]</ref><ref>[http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/30/mgs4-print-reviewers-asked-to-not-disclose-install-time-cut-sce/ MGS4 print reviewers asked to not disclose install time, cut scene length, reports MTV] at [[joystiq]]</ref><ref>[http://ps3.ign.com/articles/877/877611p1.html Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots Review] at [[IGN]]</ref> on limitations given to pre-release reviewers by Konami, including discussion on the length of cutscenes and size of the PS3 installation. These limitations have resulted in ''[[Electronic Gaming Monthly]]'' delaying its review.<ref name="egmdelay" /> In lieu of a review, the magazine printed a roundtable discussion about the game,<ref>[http://kotaku.com/5012146/egm-refuse-to-review-mgs4-because-konami-imposed-limitations EGM Refuse To Review MGS4 Because Konami Imposed "Limitations"] at [[Kotaku]]</ref> with a proper review expected to print in the magazine and post on [[1UP.com]] after Konami's restrictions have been lifted. Kojima Productions spokesperson Ryan Payton has since explained more specifically what the NDA restricts, and has amended "some items [that] are outdated and require more explanation." He also listed the length of install times, noting that the restrictions were intended to prevent spoilers regarding what occurs ''during'' the installations.<ref>[http://kotaku.com/5013432/kojima-productions-responds-to-mgs4-nda-complaints Exclusive: Kojima Productions Responds to MGS4 NDA Complaints<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>

Following this statement, gaming site [[GameSpot]] published a blog entry in which it claims it will be unable to review the game either, claiming Konami have withheld review code because of non-compliance with the limitations. The article originally implied that the absence of a review was due to GameSpot's refusal to attend the "Boot Camp" event at Kojima Productions' offices. However it has revised it to state that the Boot Camp was a mid-development feedback and PR exercise, and would not have led to a review in any case.<ref>[http://au.gamespot.com/news/blogs/review-blog/909185210/26418536/metal-gear-solid-4-not-playing-ball.html Metal Gear Solid 4: Not Playing Ball - GameSpot Review Blog - Gaming News and Videos<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>

The day before Konami's restrictions were to be lifted, ''[[Electronic Gaming Monthly]]'' reviewer Jeremy Parish clarified the reasons for the self-imposed review embargo, dispelling rumors of a disagreement between Konami and ''EGM'' on the review conditions in a lengthy blog commentary.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.1up.com/do/blogEntry?bId=8766157&publicUserId=5379721|title=MGS4, EGM, NDAs and YOU|publisher=[[1UP.com]]|author=Jeremy Parish|accessdate=2008-06-12|date=2008-06-11}}</ref> His review of the game appeared on the website shortly after.<ref name=1UPreview/>

The limitations were of particular interest due to a widely-publicised<ref>[http://kotaku.com/392923/mgs4-has-90+minute-cutscenes Metal Gear Solid 4: MGS4 Has 90-Minute Cutscenes [UPDATE&#93;<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref><ref>[http://arstechnica.com/journals/thumbs.ars/2008/05/23/mgs4-will-have-several-90-minute-cut-scenes MGS4 will have several LONG cut scenes<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref><ref>[http://www.gamesradar.com/ps3/metal-gear-solid-4-guns-of-the-patriots/news/mgs4-has-90-minute-cutscenes/a-200805239188562097/g-20051216153655522074 MGS4 has '90 minute' cutscenes, Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots PS3 News | GamesRadar<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> claim by ''[[Computer and Video Games|CVG]]'' that the game had "cut-scenes that approach the 90 minutes mark",<ref>[http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=189543 News: MGS4 has '90 minute' cut-scenes - ComputerAndVideoGames.com<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> misattributed to ''[[PlayStation World]]'' magazine. GamePro and Ryan Payton have described this as an exaggeration.<ref>[http://www.gamepro.com/news.cfm?article_id=187049 UPDATE: 90-minute cinemas in Metal Gear Solid 4? Not so fast | PS3 News | GamePro.com<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref><ref>[http://kotaku.com/5013357/kojima-productions-says-no-mgs4-90-minute-cutscenes Top: Kojima Productions Says "No MGS4 90 Minute Cutscenes"<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> A review by ''Edge'' describes scenes "perilously close" to 90 minutes in duration, but this has not been commented upon by the publisher.

===Sales===

According to [[Enterbrain]], ''MGS4'' sold 476,334 copies in its first four days on sale in Japan, which includes copies bundled with the [[PlayStation 3]], and caused a boost in PlayStation 3 sales.<ref name="firstweekjapansales"/> The PS3, which usually sells nearly 10,000 units in a given week, went on to sell 77,208 units in ''MGS4''{{'}}s debut week.<ref name="firstweekjapansales">{{cite web |url=http://ps3.ign.com/articles/882/882248p1.html |title=Nearly 500,000 for Metal Gear Solid 4 in Japan |author=John Tanaka |date=2008-06-17 |publisher=[[IGN]] |accessdate=2008-06-18}}</ref> As of [[July 9]], [[2008]], the game has sold 576,437 copies in Japan.<ref>Weekly Famitsu, issue 1020</ref> According to [[Chart-Track]], the game is the second fastest-selling PlayStation 3 title in the United Kingdom after ''[[Grand Theft Auto IV]]'' and was below ''[[Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty]]'''s opening weekend figure by 14,000 copies recorded in 2002; the sales of the PlayStation 3 increased by a "minimal" seven percent over ''MGS4''{{'}}s opening weekend.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/chart-track-mgs4-had-minimal-impact-on-uk-ps3-sales |title=Chart-Track: MGS4 had "minimal" impact on UK PS3 sales |author=Johnny Minkley |date=2008-06-17 |publisher=[[GamesIndustry.biz]] |accessdate=2008-06-18}}</ref> Konami has reported that ''MGS4'' sold over one million copies across Europe in its first week, with 25,000 limited-edition copies "snapped up almost immediately".<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.mcvuk.com/news/30959/Metal-Gear-Solid-4-hits-a-million-in-first-week |date=2008-06-24 |publisher=[[Market for Home Computing and Video Games]] |title=Metal Gear Solid 4 hits 1m sales in first week |author=Neil Long |accessdate=2008-06-25}}</ref> In the United States, ''MGS4'' was the best-selling game in June 2008 selling 774,600 copies (nearly one million if the number of copies bundled with the PS3 were included), causing PS3 sales to double over the previous month, according to the [[NPD Group]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gamespot.com/news/6194691.html |title=NPD: PS3 sales spike on MGS4 |author=Tom Magrino |date=2008-07-17 |publisher=[[GameSpot]] |accessdate=2008-07-18}}</ref> As of [[August 8]][[2008]], ''MGS4'' has shipped 4 million copies worldwide.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.psxextreme.com/ps3-news/3579.html |title=Konami Ships 4 Million Metal Gear Solid 4 Copies Worldwide |accessdate=2008-08-08}}</ref>
Many stores had game players lined up around the block at midnight and the excitement was covered by a variety of news outlets including a humorous look by the [[Current TV]] show [[infomania (TV Series)| infoMania's]] Ben Hoffman and his segment Tech Report.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://current.com/items/89036112_tech_report_metal_gear_solid_4 |title=Tech Report: Metal Gear Solid 4 |author=Ben Hoffman |date=2008-06-19 |publisher=[[Current TV]] |accessdate=2008-07-29}}</ref>

== References ==
{{reflist|2}}

== External links ==
* [http://www.konami.jp/kojima_pro/event2007/index-en.html Metal Gear Solid 20th Anniversary party]
* [http://www.konami.jp/mgs4/global/index.html Metal Gear Solid 4 Global Site]

* {{wikia|metalgear|Metal Gear Wiki}}
{{Metal Gear}}

[[Category:2008 video games]]
[[Category:Metal Gear games]]
[[Category:PlayStation 3 games]]
[[Category:PlayStation 3-only games]]

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Revision as of 15:06, 13 August 2008

SNAKE DIES LOL

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