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Video-game review: Guns of the Patriots for PS3

The Associated Press

July 7, 2008

It all comes full circle eventually, and like anything that has a beginning, it must have an end. We will be sad to see no more of Solid Snake, but you can rest assured that he goes out in classic Snake glory.

Guns of the Patriots is the final installment in the long history of Metal Gear Solid, and while doors are left open for potential spin-off franchises, this was Konami's last chance to give gamers the full-on stealth experience this series practically has a monopoly on.

Solid Snake is now going by Old Snake, as he has become a cagey, creaky-but-not-yet-broken warrior. Being a clone, his age has advanced rapidly. Most of the typical game play you've come to expect from the series is back. The old camouflage system has been removed, though, and it's been replaced with a more high-tech OctoCamo suit - a huge upgrade, in our opinion. Other improvements, such as the Solid Eye that has taken the place of all the goggles and other vision aids, certainly give this game some fresh appeal.

There's also a new cohort named Drebin (insert your own "Police Squad" jokes here), who helps unlock new weapons for you. He's a trusty aide, but his ability to replenish your ammo at will and provide you with higher-quality weaponry almost takes the "stealth" portion out of the game altogether.

Also on the downside, the online content is horribly insufficient, and further shows the lag between the PlayStation Network and Xbox Live.

But it's certainly the most stunning PS3 game released so far. The visuals are spot on throughout, and if you can somehow make it through the seemingly endless cut scenes, you will appreciate the game's cinematic feel.

PLOT The final chapter in the Metal Gear Solid stealth action series

PLATFORM PlayStation 3

COST $59.99

BOTTOM LINE Sorry to see you go, Snake.

RATING M, for Mature