METAL GEAR SOLID V: THE PHANTOM PAIN

Last updated: 2025-11-11

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Summary
  • Unparalleled stealth sandbox gameplay experience
  • Addictive, in-depth Mother Base management
  • Exceptional sound design and soundtrack
  • Fragmented, unfinished main story narrative
  • Repetitive mission objectives and design
  • Empty open world, underwhelming antagonists
METAL GEAR SOLID V: THE PHANTOM PAIN header

Categories

Open-World ExplorationStealth GameplayTacticalSingle-player StoryBase BuildingResource ManagementCharacter Customization

Emotions

Satisfaction29%Disappointment12%Admiration11%Excitement9%Frustration9%
Reviews
(sample size)
2000
Helpful reviews
39%
Unhelpful reviews
60%
Protest reviews
2%
Positive points
3405
Negative points
1716
Gameplay points
885
Perf. points
60
Rec. points
536
Misc points
396
Point
Unparalleled stealth sandbox gameplay
Description
Players consistently praise the immense freedom in mission approach, diverse tactical options, and highly reactive AI. This creates an engaging, open-ended stealth experience where every playthrough feels unique and rewarding due to deep mechanics and a vast arsenal of tools.
Importance
100%
Enduring high-quality experience
Description
The game is lauded for its overall polish, visual fidelity, and robust performance that holds up remarkably well years after release. Players find it an incredibly fun and addictive experience with strong replayability and exceptional technical optimization, even a decade later.
Importance
71%
Kojima's Metal Gear legacy
Description
The game is seen as a pivotal entry in the Metal Gear Solid series, praised for its innovative approach and masterful direction by Hideo Kojima. It's often considered the best in the franchise and a compelling introduction for newcomers, enriching the saga's lore and representing Kojima's visionary farewell.
Importance
41%
Rich and impactful narrative
Description
The game's narrative is highly praised for its engaging plot, intricate twists, and exploration of dark, philosophical themes like war, identity, and revenge. Its cinematic presentation and emotional depth leave a lasting impression on players.
Importance
18%
Addictive Mother Base management
Description
The Mother Base progression and management system, including Fulton extraction and equipment development, is highly engaging. It provides a rewarding sense of growth and strategic depth, fostering player immersion as they build and customize their private army and develop technologies.
Importance
14%
Exceptional sound and soundtrack
Description
Players consistently commend the game's outstanding sound design and masterfully chosen soundtrack. The blend of original compositions and iconic 80s classics perfectly enhances the atmosphere, tension, and emotional impact of the game.
Importance
11%
Beloved companion character Quiet
Description
The character Quiet is frequently highlighted as a favorite companion due to her effectiveness as a sniper and scout, her intriguing mystery, and her strong, well-designed character arc. Her presence significantly enhances the gameplay and narrative experience.
Importance
6%