Hideo Kojima Reflects on Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker

Hideo Kojima recently shared some intriguing details about the creation of Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker, a title that debuted on the PlayStation Portable in 2010. As a follow-up to Metal Gear Solid: Portable Ops, this game continued Big Boss's story as he embarked on leading his own mercenary group in Colombia.

Initially, there were rumors that Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker was meant to be the fifth main entry in the Metal Gear series. While this didn't come to pass when the game was released, Kojima has confirmed that there were once plans to position it as such.

Kojima's Regrets and Vision for Peace Walker

Over the years, Kojima has shared numerous stories about his experiences developing this portable title. One notable account highlighted something he regretted about Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker: the omission of a song he originally wanted to include in the game. Despite this missed opportunity, Kojima’s stories from the development process reveal many other fascinating insights into the game’s evolution.

On social media, Kojima explained that his initial vision was to release the game as Metal Gear Solid 5: Peace Walker. He envisioned the title as a stepping stone that would introduce a new proprietary game engine into the series. Although the Fox Engine was eventually developed and later used in a few Konami games, this plan didn't come to full fruition with Peace Walker.

The Roadblocks and Evolution of the Series

According to Kojima, Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker was intended to act as a transitional phase for the franchise while the Fox Engine was being finalized. However, the idea of labeling the game as Metal Gear Solid 5 encountered significant resistance from international marketing teams.

As a result, the development team chose to drop the numbered title and adjust the target audience to a younger demographic. Eventually, Metal Gear Solid 5 would emerge as MGS5: The Phantom Pain, bringing the Fox Engine into the spotlight. Although fans have had mixed reactions to The Phantom Pain, it’s still widely regarded as a solid entry in the series.

Kojima's Thoughts on the Series' Continuity

Kojima previously hinted that Metal Gear Solid 5: The Phantom Pain should be seen as Metal Gear Solid V, suggesting that the true fifth entry might not have happened yet. Given the innovative gameplay changes that The Phantom Pain introduced, it's plausible that Kojima still personally views Peace Walker as the fifth installment in the mainline series.

With rumors swirling about Peace Walker potentially being included in the upcoming Metal Gear Solid Master Collection Volume 2, it's clear how much value the game holds in the franchise's legacy. Whether or not it officially carries the number, Peace Walker remains a significant chapter in the Metal Gear Solid saga.