Info about METAL GEAR SOLID V: GROUND ZEROES:

Official game description:
World-renowned Kojima Productions showcases another masterpiece in the Metal Gear Solid franchise with Metal Gear Solid V: Ground Zeroes. Metal Gear Solid V: Ground Zeroes is the first segment of the ‘Metal Gear Solid V Experience’ and prologue to the larger second segment, Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain launching thereafter.  
MGSV: GZ gives core fans the opportunity to get a taste of the world-class production’s unparalleled visual presentation and gameplay before the release of the main game. It also provides an opportunity for gamers who have never played a Kojima Productions game, and veterans alike, to gain familiarity with the radical new game design and unparalleled style of presentation.  
The critically acclaimed Metal Gear Solid franchise has entertained fans for decades and revolutionized the gaming industry. Kojima Productions once again raises the bar with the FOX Engine offering incredible graphic fidelity and the introduction of open world game design in the Metal Gear Solid universe. This is the experience that core gamers have been waiting for.  
Key Features:  
• THE POWER OF FOX ENGINE – Ground Zeroes showcases Kojima Productions’ stunning FOX Engine, a true next-generation game engine which revolutionizes the Metal Gear Solid experience.  
• INTRODUCTION TO OPEN WORLD DESIGN – The first Metal Gear Solid title to offer open world gameplay. Ground Zeroes offers total freedom of play: how missions are undertaken is entirely down to the user.  
• UNRESTRICTED STEALTH – Imagine classic Metal Gear gameplay but with no restrictions or boundaries. Players use intelligence and cerebral strategy to sneak their way through entire missions, or go in all guns blazing. Each will have different effects on game consequences and advancement.  
• MULTIPLE MISSIONS AND TASKS –Ground Zeroes boasts a central story mode and Side-Ops missions ranging from tactical action, aerial assaults and “covert” missions that will be sure to surprise.  
• REDESIGNED INTERFACE – Ground Zeroes users will benefit from a clean in-game HUD that shows the minimal amount of on-screen data to give a more intense gaming experience.  
\*

Release date: Dec 18, 2014

Categories: Tactical Espionage Action, Stealth Gameplay, Open-World Exploration, Third-Person Shooter, Single-player Story, Action Sandbox, Third-Person Stealth Adventure

Feature scans:
- MTX: score 10; verdict: Fair / No In-Game Monetization; summary: The reviews overwhelmingly criticize Ground Zeroes as a short, overpriced standalone prologue and often recommend buying the Definitive Experience bundle instead. No review provides direct evidence of in-game microtransactions, real-money gacha, loot boxes, paid power, paid convenience, a battle pass, or a cash shop. The cash-grab and mobile-gaming comments are about base price, packaging, or gameplay resemblance, not actual in-game monetization. Per the scoring overrides, the game remains in the fair one-time-purchase range.
- Proton/Linux: score 45; verdict: Playable with Community Workaround (Minor-to-Moderate Tweaks); summary: The filtered feedback centers on a recurring in-game crash at the end of the first mission on Steam Deck, which blocks progression unless users apply a community workaround (renaming or deleting the offending video file). Some users note that the known fix appears to be Windows-only and that Steam Deck verification seems generous. Counterbalancing this, at least one user confirms the game runs fine on Steam Deck and integrated graphics, showing that Linux/Deck users do reach and sustain gameplay. Remaining mentions (frame cap, cursor, ReShade, generic performance praise) are not framed as Linux/Proton issues and were treated as non-qualifying. Overall the title is playable on Steam Deck/Linux but requires a manual community workaround, placing it in the minor-to-moderate tweak range rather than being broken.
- Steam Deck: score 60; verdict: Tinkering Required; summary: The Steam Deck experience is mixed: the game runs well for many users, but a reproducible crash at the end of the first/main mission requires a manual video-file rename or removal, and the fix appears unavailable on Linux/Steam Deck. Controller support and M&K zoom sensitivity also cause input friction, while cursor and PC-port polish issues are lower severity. Overall, playable but requires workarounds.

- Hardware Profile:
  - Summary: Windows performance reports are mostly smooth, with positive optimization and frame-rate feedback on 8-11GB VRAM systems and no negative performance reports on 16GB+ VRAM systems. However, the lower-VRAM/RAM cohort shows mixed results due to crashes, and the 12-15GB VRAM cohort has a notable crash complaint.
  - Sample size: 126 (10% coverage)
  - Audience skew: Review sample is mostly Windows-based.
  - Windows <8GB VRAM / <16GB RAM (mixed, 47 reports): Reports include smooth optimization and 60fps on older GPUs, but also multiple crashes that can block mission unlocks and one fix may not apply to Linux/Steam Deck.
  - Windows 12-15GB VRAM (negative, 19 reports): The included report describes crashes when using borderless or fullscreen modes, indicating stability problems on this cohort.
  - Windows 8-11GB VRAM (positive, 12 reports): Performance feedback is positive, with reports of great optimization, smooth 60fps, and stable frame times on 8-11GB VRAM systems.
  - Windows 16GB+ VRAM (positive, 5 reports): The only included review is recommended and contains no performance or stability complaints for this high-VRAM Windows cohort.
  - Caveats: 126 of 1229 reviews expose hardware metadata.; Review sample is mostly Windows-based.
Feature extractions:
- Community Price:
  - Community fair range: $5.00 - $10.00
  - Reasoning: The reviews consistently reject the standalone full price, especially the $20 level, and treat sale or bundle pricing as the appropriate way to buy Ground Zeroes. One review explicitly sets fair value at US$10 or below, while several others describe a $5 sale price as a must-buy or the right point to purchase. A 75% discount from $20 also lands at about $5. This supports a community fair base-game range of roughly $5-$10, well below the current $29.99 price.
- Playtime Metrics:
  - Game completion: 4.0h
  - Story completion: 1.5h
  - Session length: N/A
  - Endgame: 30.0h
  - Reasoning: The all-missions quote supports a gameCompletion value near 4 hours for clearing the main and side missions. The main-mission quote and the translated 79-minute campaign report support a storyCompletion value around 1.5 hours, with player reports centering on a short 1-2 hour main story. The 100% completion quote supports an endgame/full-completion value near 30 hours for post-story cleanup, S-ranks, trials, and achievements. No review clearly states a typical session length, so sessionLength is null.
- Time-to-fun:
  - Summary: Ground Zeroes is reported as a stealth sandbox that can be addictive from its gameplay, but the clearest time-to-fun signal is that it opens up after players push through initial confusion and complete a few side missions.
  - Stance: Clicks after
  - Anchor: Completing a few side missions
  - Time to anchor: N/A
  - Friction: initial confusion; erratic, atrocious bullet spread; suppressor wears off after a handful of shots; same missions on the same map over and over again; repetitive one-map content; tedious and painful and clunky
  - Unlock drivers: completing a few side missions; pushing through initial confusion; just enough missions and variety; freedom to tackle objectives in different ways
  - Conditions: Prior Metal Gear Solid fandom; Anticipation for The Phantom Pain; Buying the tutorial and sequel as a bundle; Treating the game as a tutorial rather than a standalone full game; Preference for stealth gameplay over story progression; Tolerance for replaying the same map
- Player Archetypes:
  - Metal Gear Lore Devotee (buy)
    - Motivation: To experience the canonical story bridge from Peace Walker to The Phantom Pain and follow Big Boss's next chapter.
    - Playstyle: Plays chronologically for story and lore, treating Ground Zeroes as a mandatory prologue before The Phantom Pain.
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: Metal Gear fan
    - Reference games: Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain; Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker
  - 100% Achievement Completionist (buy)
    - Motivation: To master every mission, collect all tapes, and earn achievements and S ranks that carry rewards into The Phantom Pain.
    - Playstyle: Replays missions for S ranks, hunts cassette tapes and collectibles, and optimizes routes for 100% completion.
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: completionist; achievement hunter
    - Reference games: Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain
  - Stealth Sandbox Infiltration Fan (sale)
    - Motivation: To enjoy pure stealth infiltration gameplay with varied tools and repeatable sandbox missions.
    - Playstyle: Experiments with weapons, silent takedowns, and routes across one detailed base, replaying missions for new approaches.
    - Experience: mixed
    - Purchase stance: sale
    - Labels: newcomers; veterans
    - Reference games: Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain
  - Bundle-Only Value Pragmatist (deep sale)
    - Motivation: To continue the MGSV saga without overpaying for a short prologue, preferably through the Definitive bundle or a deep discount.
    - Playstyle: Treats Ground Zeroes as a bundled add-on or discounted prelude, playing it once for story or tutorial value before moving to The Phantom Pain.
    - Experience: mixed
    - Purchase stance: deep sale
    - Labels: N/A
    - Reference games: Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain


Below are summaries of things people say about the game per category.
Each point is assigned a weight that represents how often it is mentioned across all reviews.
What players like:
- Best-in-series gameplay experience (weight 0.33): Reviewers frequently call it the best gameplay in the Metal Gear series, with excellent mechanics and an overall amazing play experience. It is often described as one of the best games in the franchise.
- High replayability and content value (weight 0.31): The game offers extensive replayability through multiple approaches, side missions, challenges, collectibles, and mission rankings. Reviewers note it is endlessly replayable and holds strong long-term value.
- Exceptional stealth gameplay mechanics (weight 0.29): Players describe the stealth gameplay as some of the best ever made, with smooth, refined, and satisfying mechanics. The stealth systems are repeatedly called peak and incredibly polished.
- Essential story prologue to Phantom Pain (weight 0.26): The narrative serves as a crucial bridge between Peace Walker and The Phantom Pain, fleshing out the story and preparing players for the main entry. Many consider it an excellent and important prologue.
- Outstanding visual presentation praised (weight 0.23): Reviewers consistently highlight the graphics as excellent, beautiful, and technically impressive for its time. Visual quality is one of the most frequently praised aspects of the game.
- Kojima's signature directorial excellence (weight 0.15): The game is praised as a Kojima masterpiece, filled with his unique creative vision. The cutscene direction, character animations, and overall prologue quality reflect his expertise.
- Excellent optimization and performance (weight 0.08): Players note the game runs great and is meticulously optimized, contributing to a smooth and enjoyable experience. Performance is consistently described as very good.

Common complaints:
- Extremely short game length (weight 0.49): Many players report the game can be completed in under two hours, with some finishing in about one hour. This brevity makes it feel like a prologue rather than a full game.
- Essentially a demo or prologue (weight 0.35): The content is widely described as a demo or introduction rather than a complete game. It functions more as a tutorial or engine showcase.
- Not worth full price (weight 0.29): Players consistently state the game is not worth its full price due to its short length and lack of content. Many recommend buying only on sale or skipping it.
- Only one main mission (weight 0.22): The game consists of a single story mission, with very few side missions. This severely limits the gameplay content.
- Paid demo criticism (weight 0.22): The game is often criticized for being a demo sold at full price. Many believe it should have been free or bundled with another game.
- Not a standalone game (weight 0.19): The game is not considered a full standalone title. It is seen as an introduction or prologue to The Phantom Pain.

Gameplay feedback:
- Main mission plus side missions (weight 0.48): The game includes one primary story mission along with numerous side missions and extra ops that offer additional content. These missions have different objectives and can be completed in various ways.
- Stealth action gameplay (weight 0.39): The core gameplay is stealth action, featuring stealth mechanics and tactical infiltration. Players can approach missions with freedom and use various gadgets.
- Prologue to The Phantom Pain (weight 0.37): Many reviews emphasize that the game serves as a prologue or introduction to Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain, bridging the story after Peace Walker. It is a standalone prelude built on the same engine as The Phantom Pain.
- High replayability (weight 0.2): The game is designed for repeated playthroughs, with replayable missions and different approaches to completing objectives. It offers 100% completion content and collectibles.
- Short main story length (weight 0.17): The main story mission can be completed in about 1 to 1.5 hours, and the overall game is short, often taking under 2 hours. Many reviewers note it feels more like a demo than a full game.
- Fox Engine introduction (weight 0.08): The game is built with the Fox Engine and serves as an introduction to the technology used in Metal Gear Solid V. It functions as a tech demo showcasing the engine's capabilities.
- Rescue mission for Chico and Paz (weight 0.07): The main mission involves extracting Chico and Paz, serving as the central rescue operation. This mission is the key story objective.
- Cassette tapes for story (weight 0.06): The game delivers story and lore through collectible cassette tapes with voice acting. These tapes provide additional narrative depth.

Performance notes:
- Excellent PC optimization praised (weight 0.31): Users widely report the game runs extremely well on a broad range of hardware, with very high frame rates and stable performance. The FOX Engine is frequently credited for the balance of good visuals and smooth gameplay.
- Runs great on low-end PCs (weight 0.23): Many reviewers highlight that the game performs smoothly on modest or older systems, including integrated graphics, without needing the latest hardware. Low system requirements and lightweight components are often cited.
- Steam Deck performance and issues (weight 0.11): The game generally runs well on Steam Deck, but some users report a crash after the first mission and a video file crash that exits the game. Overall handheld compatibility is strong despite these specific bugs.
- Mouse cursor visibility problems (weight 0.07): On PC, the mouse cursor arrow often stays visible on screen even when using a controller, and the Windows loading icon appears constantly with a controller plugged in. A fix involves switching to the beta branch version 1.002.
- Keyboard and mouse control problems (weight 0.06): Several users report issues with keyboard and mouse controls, including bad responsiveness and joystick conflicts. This detracts from the experience for players not using a controller.
- Crashes and forced windowed mode (weight 0.06): A number of users experience crashes when using borderless or fullscreen modes, forcing them to play in windowed mode. There is also a crash at the end of the first mission's credits.
- Small install size appreciated (weight 0.06): Reviewers note the game takes up very little disk space, around 2–3 GB, which is a welcome change from larger titles. This makes it easy to install and keep on storage-limited systems.
- Stable frametimes and fluidity (weight 0.06): Users highlight stable frametimes and fluid gameplay, with some noting locked 60 FPS and buttery performance. These factors contribute to a consistently smooth experience.
- Gamepad issues and controller quirks (weight 0.04): Some users cannot start the game with a gamepad connected, and the right analog stick sometimes stops working mid-mission. These issues can disrupt gameplay for controller users.
- Mixed views on PC port (weight 0.04): While many praise the PC version, some call it a bad port that drags down the experience. The negative feedback focuses on general port quality issues.
- High sensitivity hurts aiming (weight 0.02): The high sensitivity setting makes first-person aiming at a distance feel terrible, impacting precision. This is a notable drawback for players who prefer mouse and keyboard.
- Game minimizes randomly (weight 0.02): A user reports the game keeps minimizing itself for no reason, which can interrupt play sessions. This appears to be an isolated but frustrating bug.
- Reshade incompatibility noted (weight 0.02): Reshade does not work with the game unless using the Vulkan renderer. This limits graphical customization options for some users.
- Fox Engine distance rendering issues (weight 0.02): The FOX Engine has problems rendering objects at a distance, which can lead to visual artifacts. This is a minor technical flaw in an otherwise well-optimized engine.
- PS4 Pro patch improvement (weight 0.02): A reviewer notes the PS4 Pro patch offers a decent step up in fidelity from the base PS4 version. This is relevant for console players seeking better visuals.

Recommendations:
- Buy bundled with Phantom Pain (weight 0.48): Cluster 1 and Cluster 2 overwhelmingly advise purchasing Ground Zeroes only as part of a bundle with The Phantom Pain, since standalone value is limited. Cluster 23, Cluster 24, Cluster 25, Cluster 28, and Cluster 30 reinforce this same recommendation.
- Wait for sale or discount (weight 0.33): Cluster 3, Cluster 10, Cluster 11, Cluster 15, Cluster 16, and Cluster 21 all repeat that the game is only worth purchasing at a discount or on sale rather than full price. Cluster 32 echoes this sentiment specifically about full-price purchases.
- Recommended for Metal Gear fans (weight 0.29): Cluster 5, Cluster 20, and Cluster 36 state the game is a must-play for fans of the Metal Gear Solid series. Cluster 6 and Cluster 8 also recommend it for stealth fans and those familiar with prior MGS titles.
- Not worth buying standalone (weight 0.2): Cluster 12, Cluster 14, Cluster 18, Cluster 29, and Cluster 34 explicitly state the game is not recommended for individual purchase. Cluster 26 adds it is not suited for casual or new players expecting a full game.
- Short but worthwhile experience (weight 0.1): Cluster 22 and Cluster 31 highlight that the game is worth playing despite its short length, offering many impressions in little time. Cluster 11 also loosely supports positive value when discounted.
- Good for completionists (weight 0.06): Cluster 17 notes the game is worthwhile especially for completionists seeking achievements and full unlock progress. This is a specific audience recommendation.

Other player notes:
- Bundled with Phantom Pain (weight 0.48): Many reviewers note this game is frequently sold together with The Phantom Pain, often in Definitive Experience or similar bundles. Buying the bundle is commonly recommended for better value.
- Prologue to Phantom Pain (weight 0.4): The game is widely described as a prologue, lead-in, or introduction to Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain. It sets up the story and gameplay for the larger title.
- Very short game (weight 0.3): Reviewers frequently mention the game is short, with the main story often completed in about 2 hours. Completionist runs may take longer but still feel brief.
- Story bridges Peace Walker (weight 0.11): The narrative connects the events of Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker to The Phantom Pain. It serves as a story bridge and prequel in the series timeline.
- Introduces Fox Engine (weight 0.08): The game is noted for introducing the Fox Engine, which powers its visuals and mechanics. It demonstrates the engine's capabilities ahead of The Phantom Pain.
- Additional missions included (weight 0.06): Certain versions include extra missions, such as console-exclusive side ops, that expand the experience. This adds replay value beyond the main story.
- Hideo Kojima created (weight 0.06): Hideo Kojima is credited as the creator and developer of the game. His involvement is a key point for fans of the series.
- New direction for series (weight 0.06): Some reviewers see the game as a new direction compared to previous Metal Gear Solid titles. It is often compared to earlier entries like Metal Gear Solid 2.
- Played on various platforms (weight 0.05): Players mention experiencing the game on different platforms, such as PS4 and PS3, when it was released. This reflects its cross-generation availability.

Emotions:
- Disappointment (weight 0.2): The game's extremely short length, often just one main mission, makes it feel like a paid demo rather than a full title. Many players feel the price is unjustified for the lack of content, reused maps, and cut content from the main game. The story ends abruptly and lacks the polish and features expected from the series.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.12): Despite its short length, the game offers highly replayable stealth gameplay with side ops, hard mode, and S-rank challenges. The tight level design, smart AI, and rewarding progression provide a satisfying experience, especially for fans. Many felt the purchase was worthwhile, particularly when bought on sale.
- Enjoyment (weight 0.11): Players find the core stealth and action mechanics highly enjoyable, praising the tight controls and sandbox approach. The replayability of missions, experimenting with different tactics, and the game's atmosphere keep it fun despite its brevity. Many consider it a great experience even as a standalone stealth game.
- Frustration (weight 0.1): Frustration stems from the game's short length at a high price, poor PC optimization with crashes, and awkward keyboard controls. Players also cite unfair AI detection, janky movement, and tedious requirements for 100% completion. The lack of content relative to cost is a recurring complaint.
- Admiration (weight 0.08): Admirers praise Kojima's direction, the Fox Engine's technical achievements, and the game's cinematic presentation. They view it as a brilliantly executed stealth sandbox with exceptional polish and attention to detail. Many consider it a masterpiece despite its short length.
- Appreciation (weight 0.04): Players appreciate the game's beautiful visuals, tight level design, and narrative depth that ties into the larger Metal Gear saga. Its refined stealth mechanics and optimization make it a classic that remains relevant. It serves as an excellent introduction to the series for newcomers.
- Excitement (weight 0.04): The game's open-ended infiltration, cinematic presentation, and iconic moments generate excitement. Players feel a sense of liberation and tension during stealth missions. It also builds anticipation for the sequel, The Phantom Pain.
- Annoyance (weight 0.02): Annoyances include the game being overpriced for its short length, technical issues like a persistent mouse cursor, and repetitive audio lines. The lack of audio settings, forced repetition for achievements, and localization problems also irritate players.
- Amusement (weight 0.02): Amusement arises from the game's quirky humor, fan service, and the freedom to experiment in its sandbox. Moments like teasing guards, the over-the-top XOF patch scene, and the many easter eggs provide comedic relief. The contrast between serious stealth and absurd outcomes is often funny.
- Enthusiasm (weight 0.02): Enthusiasts praise the game as an excellent introduction to The Phantom Pain, with top-notch stealth gameplay and presentation. Many became fans of the series because of it. The bonus content and replayability further fuel their excitement.
- Anger (weight 0.02): Anger is directed at the game being sold as a full product when it feels like a demo, especially at full price. The lack of basic quality-of-life features and Konami's handling of the release exacerbate this feeling. Players feel ripped off by the short length and high cost.
- Love (weight 0.02): Players express deep love for the game's tight stealth mechanics, well-designed map, and fan service. The ability to replay missions endlessly without boredom and the inclusion of backstory content are highly appreciated. The game is seen as a well-made opening to the series.
- Surprise (weight 0.01): Surprise comes from discovering the game is very short, with much of the story told through tapes rather than cutscenes. Players are also amazed at the amount of content packed into a small file size and the game exceeding expectations. The comfortable controls compared to older titles also surprise.
- Nostalgia (weight 0.01): Nostalgia is triggered by references to earlier Metal Gear games, such as the Deja Vu mission and map design reminiscent of MGS2. Memories of E3 trailers and the original release era evoke fond feelings. The game also serves as a bridge to The Phantom Pain, reminding players of the series' history.
- Anticipation (weight 0.01): The game leaves players curious about the consequences of the Camp Omega events and eager to see how they lead into The Phantom Pain. The story serves as a prologue that builds hype for the rest of the saga. Many look forward to the sequel based on the mechanics shown here.
- Sadness (weight 0.01): Sadness arises from the heartbreaking story, particularly the fate of Paz and the destruction of the Peace Walker base. The decline of the stealth genre and Konami's treatment of Kojima also contribute. The ending leaves a bittersweet and emotional impact.
- Fun (weight 0.01): Players find the game very fun, especially sneaking around Camp Omega and completing missions. The gameplay is incredibly enjoyable despite its short length. It offers a good time for those who appreciate stealth action.
- Joy (weight 0.01): Joy comes from being able to play the game on PC again, experiencing the cinematic cutscenes, and seeing iconic moments like Solid Snake singing. The personal experience of playing through the story brings happiness. Replaying on new platforms also sparks joy.
- Tension (weight 0.01): The game creates constant tension through its oppressive atmosphere, patrolling guards, and searchlights. Players must always be on guard as enemies coordinate and force improvisation. The tense gameplay and cutscenes keep players on edge.
- Dissatisfaction (weight 0.01): Dissatisfaction is voiced over the game's very short length and high price, making it feel not worth the money. The main adventure is unsatisfying and the gunplay, especially the tranquilizer crosshair, is criticized. Players expect more content for the cost.}