
Metal Gear Solid 5: The Phantom Pain, developed by Kojima Productions and published by Konami, is a game that has captivated players with its intricate storytelling, open-world design, and innovative gameplay mechanics. One of the most frequently asked questions about this title is, “How long is Metal Gear Solid 5?” The answer to this question is not as straightforward as one might think, as it depends on various factors, including the player’s approach to the game, their skill level, and their desire to explore every nook and cranny of the game’s vast world.
The Main Storyline: A Solid Foundation
The main storyline of Metal Gear Solid 5: The Phantom Pain is estimated to take around 45 to 50 hours to complete for an average player. This estimate includes the time spent on essential missions, cutscenes, and some side activities that are necessary to progress the story. However, this is just the tip of the iceberg. The game’s narrative is rich and complex, with multiple layers of intrigue and character development that can easily extend the playtime for those who wish to delve deeper into the story.
Side Missions and Exploration: The Heart of the Game
One of the defining features of Metal Gear Solid 5 is its open-world design, which encourages players to explore and engage with the environment. The game offers a plethora of side missions, known as “Side Ops,” which can significantly extend the playtime. These missions range from rescuing hostages to eliminating high-value targets, and they provide additional context and depth to the game’s world. Completing all Side Ops can add an extra 20 to 30 hours to the overall playtime, depending on the player’s efficiency and interest in these activities.
Base Building and Resource Management: A Strategic Layer
Another aspect that can extend the playtime of Metal Gear Solid 5 is the base-building and resource management system. Players can develop their Mother Base, recruit soldiers, and manage resources to enhance their capabilities in the field. This strategic layer adds a significant amount of depth to the game and can easily consume an additional 10 to 15 hours for players who wish to optimize their base and resources.
Replayability and Multiple Endings: A Game That Keeps on Giving
Metal Gear Solid 5 is known for its high replayability, thanks to its multiple endings and the ability to approach missions in various ways. Players can choose to go in guns blazing, use stealth tactics, or even complete missions without being detected. Each approach offers a different experience, and the game rewards players for experimenting with different strategies. Additionally, the game features multiple endings, which can only be unlocked by completing specific tasks or making certain choices throughout the game. This adds another layer of replayability and can easily extend the playtime by another 10 to 20 hours for those who wish to experience all the game has to offer.
The Impact of Player Skill and Playstyle
The length of Metal Gear Solid 5 can also vary greatly depending on the player’s skill level and playstyle. Experienced players who are familiar with the game’s mechanics and have a good understanding of stealth tactics may be able to complete the game faster than those who are new to the series or prefer a more cautious approach. Similarly, players who enjoy taking their time to explore every corner of the game’s world and engage in every possible activity will naturally have a longer playtime compared to those who focus solely on the main storyline.
Conclusion: A Game That Offers Endless Possibilities
In conclusion, the length of Metal Gear Solid 5: The Phantom Pain is highly variable and depends on the player’s approach to the game. For those who focus solely on the main storyline, the game can be completed in around 45 to 50 hours. However, for players who wish to explore every aspect of the game, including side missions, base building, and multiple endings, the playtime can easily exceed 100 hours. Ultimately, Metal Gear Solid 5 is a game that offers endless possibilities and rewards players for their curiosity and dedication.
Related Q&A
Q: Can I complete Metal Gear Solid 5 without doing any side missions? A: Yes, it is possible to complete the main storyline without engaging in side missions. However, side missions provide additional context and rewards that can enhance your overall experience.
Q: How long does it take to 100% complete Metal Gear Solid 5? A: Achieving 100% completion in Metal Gear Solid 5 can take anywhere from 120 to 150 hours, depending on the player’s efficiency and dedication to completing all missions, side ops, and collectibles.
Q: Are there any time-saving tips for completing Metal Gear Solid 5 faster? A: Yes, focusing on the main storyline, using fast travel points, and optimizing your approach to missions can help reduce the overall playtime. However, some players may prefer to take their time and fully immerse themselves in the game’s world.
Q: Does the length of Metal Gear Solid 5 include the prologue mission, Ground Zeroes? A: No, the prologue mission, Ground Zeroes, is a separate experience and is not included in the estimated playtime for The Phantom Pain. However, it provides important context for the main game and is worth playing before diving into The Phantom Pain.