Solid Snake
A rookie FOXHOUND operative sent to infiltrate Outer Heaven and stop Metal Gear.
Documented for this version
Which controls does this version use?
Actions
Arrow Keys | Move Snake Directional movement is used for exploration and positioning. |
|---|---|
A | Punch or interact with nearby objects The exact effect depends on the situation and equipped item. |
B | Use the equipped weapon or item Select the desired weapon or item before using it. |
START | Open the status and equipment screen Use the screen to manage weapons, items, cards, and rations. |
SELECT | Open the transceiver Radio contacts provide mission guidance and story information. |
Control notes
Button behavior can vary between movement, equipment, and contextual actions.
This control list describes the NES version, not the MSX2 original.
How it plays
How does Metal Gear play?
The game uses a top-down perspective for most exploration, with side-view sections and other variations in some areas. Solid Snake infiltrates Outer Heaven, rescues hostages, gathers key cards and equipment, and destroys Metal Gear.
Guards follow alert rules and can summon reinforcements, so avoiding detection is often safer than attacking. The player expands access by collecting rank stars, obtains weapons and tools, and uses the transceiver to receive mission information. Key cards open doors of matching levels, while bosses and special objectives divide the fortress into progressive areas.
Plan your run
What is the best way to play Metal Gear?
Stay outside enemy vision whenever possible and use walls, corners, and doorways to break contact. If an alert begins, leave the screen or hide until the pursuit ends rather than wasting ammunition.
Rescue hostages regularly to raise rank and increase Snake's maximum health. Search rooms carefully for key cards, rations, ammunition, and equipment; some progression items are hidden behind ordinary-looking walls or require a particular card level.
Save powerful weapons and explosives for bosses and armored targets. Check the transceiver frequently, because radio messages can reveal objectives, passwords, and navigation clues.
Meet the cast
Who are the key characters?
Big Boss
The commander who directs the operation through radio communications; his true role is revealed near the conclusion.
Dr. Pettrovich Madnar
The scientist who designed Metal Gear and provides critical information about the weapon.
Ellen Madnar
Dr. Madnar's daughter, held captive in Outer Heaven.
Gray Fox
A legendary FOXHOUND agent whose disappearance is connected to the Outer Heaven mission.
Before you begin
What should you know before playing?
- 1
Rescuing hostages improves rank and increases maximum health.
- 2
Use cigarettes only when their specific concealment effect is useful; they reduce health over time.
- 3
If a door will not open, check both the required card level and whether a nearby objective has been completed.
Community discussion
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