The original Snake Eater comes with a package of interesting new Play Modes. This game is great, but,not quite there yet
Game controls suit players perfectly. Be it the beginner or expert with this game formula, the game can be "played" with basic controls. Amateur players can choose to just use the simple and basic "must-know" controls to play the game. Meanwhile, to add some interest to the game, they can try out some of the advanced techniques in the game. I am a beginner in this game, and i have to say that the game controls are perfectly easy to adapt to and manages to make use of all possible buttons and combinations for various moves and actions.
The most important thing and impressive element in the main "Snake Eater" mode, are the boss fights. Each boss fight is unique to its own. And, most importantly, they both consist of depth and originality. Especially the boss fight with "The End", endurance, strategy, deep understanding of the map and superb control skills are required to complete this amazing mission. It comprised of some elements never seen before in other games, for example, the whole boss fight [with "The End"], is held throughout three full geographical maps, requiring immense patience and understanding during the fight. Besides, this boss fight can be beaten in various ways, some easy, some not. [Please refer to the GS FAQs for more information]
Music is so-so. It's just there. Repetitive music over a period of about 20 hours isn't too hard to bear though. The scores fit the atmosphere well and are basically well utilized when it comes to stealth action.
Really, the feature that should get the limelight, should be the content on the 2nd Disc of MGS: Subsistence. An online mode is available, it looks great, but i never got to try it. But, i will if i get the chance. It looks promising.
Also, some comedious scenes are put in Disc 2 and proves to be entertaining, although some are just blatantly lame. Mini games, i wouldn't call it a side mission, like the Snake vs. Monkey and the Duel modes, are all entertaining. They can prove to be challenging too. Replaying the various quests for your Best score definitely adds replay value to the different modes.
This game, to me, is a little too short. The story really gets the climax at the end. Meaning, everything is explained in a lengthy ending, and nothing during the game itself really explains the main plot. Besides, cutscenes in-game are too long, for some of them. Too much explanation put in words. But, the great animation and sound effects make it interesting to watch. Cutscenes often appear, and it really breaks the pace of the game sometimes. The storyline, gives me a simple feeling that, it is just trying to make you feel emotional at the end, nothing solid about the story was really accomplished during the game itself.
This game can be built on for more story in the middle of the game, not just cramp all the important stuff near and at the end of the game. This game is great, has replay value because of the 'plus' items you get after beating the game once, and because of the addictive gameplay. It is not quite there yet. Really, the features that make this package all worthwhile, are the Extras features in the 2nd Disc, and some of the main elements in the "Snake Eater" mode itself.