For dedicated fans of Metal Gear Solid, a decade-long wait can feel like an eternity. The good news is that Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater is set to release this month, revitalizing a beloved classic for contemporary gamers. Looking ahead, it appears the franchise`s future will soon be in the hands of a new generation of developers.
Recent statements from Metal Gear veterans Noriaki Okamura and Yuji Korekado reveal their intention to transition leadership of the franchise to a younger team, should Konami greenlight a new Metal Gear Solid title.
“One of the reasons why we brought in a lot of fresh meat—all the new, younger developers—is because, not only did we want to give them a chance to figure out how to create and develop a Metal Gear game, but also give them a chance to experience the game themselves.” Okamura shared with Rolling Stone. He added that while the current veterans will remain for a period, the ultimate goal is to cultivate a team capable of perpetuating the franchise`s legacy and creating “more exciting games” in the future.
Both Okamura and Korekado see Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater as a crucial stepping stone. They believe it has the power to reinvigorate the series and attract fresh talent. Korekado highlighted how experienced developers on the project thoughtfully integrated input from younger team members to modernize the game, all while preserving the iconic elements that made the original 2000s release so compelling.
The ongoing evolution of Metal Gear Solid will likely proceed without its original creator, Hideo Kojima. Since departing Konami, the esteemed industry figure has been deeply involved with various projects at his own studio, including Death Stranding and its sequel, OD, and a spiritual successor to Metal Gear Solid titled Phsyint.
Kojima has openly discussed the mental and physical strain that game development exacts, especially as he ages. Despite this, he remains committed to his creative pursuits, even jesting about aiming to develop the first game in space. Notably, he has no plans to play Metal Gear Solid Delta himself.
Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater is scheduled for release on August 28 across PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S. Our review awarded it a 9/10, with Tamoor Hussain noting that “Konami`s Metal Gear Solid 3 remake is a safe but successful modernization of a beloved classic.”