Review of Metal Gear Solid: The Board Game

The journey of “Metal Gear Solid: The Board Game” to players’ tables has been a rollercoaster akin to a Metal Gear storyline, filled with unexpected twists and challenges. It was almost sidelined due to delays and licensing tangles before CMON Games stepped in and saved the day—much like Solid Snake coming to the rescue of Gray Fox. At last, fans can enjoy this cardboard version of Hideo Kojima’s iconic creation. The game translates the stealth and strategic essence familiar to gamers into a board game format. Players sneak around in cardboard boxes and face thrilling boss battles, yet it delivers a mix of both hits and misses, leaving me feeling both satisfied and slightly disappointed.

“Metal Gear Solid: The Board Game” is a campaign-styled adventure that brings the 1998 PlayStation classic to life in a new format. You can play solo or with up to three friends, though I’ll get more into why fewer players might be better a bit later. The game spans 14 meticulously designed scenarios where you guide miniature versions of favorites like Solid Snake, Meryl, and Otacon through memorable moments such as the iconic fight with Ocelot or dismantling REX.

However, one glaring omission catches the eye: the absence of the final face-off between Solid and Liquid. Neither the thrilling fight atop REX nor the intense Jeep chase made the cut. The ending instead focuses on a climactic showdown with Metal Gear REX, yet creative fans have stepped in. Over on BoardGameGeek, users have crafted their own Stage 15 to fill this gap for those eager for a fist-fight finish.

For those seeking more storyline immersion, the pricier “Integral Edition” sweetens the deal with a detailed 109-page graphic novel illustrated by Kenneth Loh. True to form, the game keeps the spirit of Metal Gear alive, incorporating classic CODEC interactions between Snake and his team in a playful, informative fashion similar to the video games. Developers have skillfully translated the nostalgic feel, even adding a cheeky nod to the famous Psycho Mantis battle trickery.

Gameplay-wise, participants can take up to four actions per turn, all laid out on character-specific player boards. Like the video games, new gear, such as Snake’s beloved Socom pistol or the famous cardboard box, becomes available, expanding your tactical choices. After players have had their turn, enemies act according to their action cards, creating dynamic and unpredictable scenarios much like those in the video games. Boss fights demand quick thinking and adaptability, introducing unique challenges that go beyond basic enemy encounters.

The game’s unpredictability keeps players engaged, as guard movements are determined by card draws and dice rolls add an element of chance to actions and shots. This creates a tension-filled experience where strategy and luck play equal roles. I found myself holding my breath during critical moments, waiting with bated breath to see if I’d managed to avoid detection.

Yet, while the game advertises support for up to four players, the campaign reveals its true colors when played solo or with just one other person. Only a few missions truly cater to a full team, and early scenarios heavily prioritize Snake. The narrative choice does stay true to the game’s logic—Snake wouldn’t typically roam Shadow Moses with an entire entourage, after all—but it can be restrictive when playing with a group.

In response to the need for more multiplayer options, the “VR Missions” mode accommodates up to four participants and introduces its own specific gear cards. However, this mode also suffers from a lack of varied content. With only six mission types all played on the same map layout, the mode risks becoming repetitive once players memorize the setup. I’m hopeful that CMON or the game’s community will eventually introduce new maps or missions to enrich the experience and counteract this shortfall.

If you’re a board gaming enthusiast or a Metal Gear fan, “Metal Gear Solid: The Board Game” offers an intriguing blend of nostalgia and novel gameplay. For more board games inspired by video titles, check out our reviews of games based on “Dead Cells,” “S.T.A.L.K.E.R.,” and “Elden Ring.”