When Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater first launched on PlayStation 2 in 2004, it became an instant classic, praised for its groundbreaking story, cinematic presentation, and bold gameplay design. Now, over twenty years later, Konami has brought us Metal Gear Solid Δ: Snake Eater, a full remake that manages to honor the original while giving it a much-needed modern facelift.
I used to think Snake Eater didn’t need a remake. But after playing Delta, I can confidently say this is the version I’ll recommend to newcomers and fans alike. It not only captures the spirit of the original but enhances it in meaningful ways.
A Remake Without Kojima, But Not Without Heart
Konami’s decision to revisit Snake Eater is logical. It remains a fan-favorite, but it’s also the chronological beginning of the Metal Gear saga, making it the best entry point for newcomers. The absence of Hideo Kojima naturally raised concerns. Could the game retain its personality without its legendary creator?
To my surprise, yes. By keeping the original voice work intact, preserving eccentric secrets like Snake’s nightmare sequence, and staying faithful to its original tone, the soul of the game remains untouched. Unlike the controversial GameCube remake Twin Snakes, which altered dialogue and tone, Delta sticks to what worked while polishing the rest.
Visual Brilliance in the Jungle
The graphical upgrade is breathtaking. Snake’s battle-hardened face shows every scar, and the jungle itself feels alive, filled with swaying foliage and reactive wildlife. The cinematography hasn’t been changed, but modern lighting and detail breathe new life into every cutscene.
Later missions inside military bases lack the lush beauty of the jungle, but they still look fantastic, proving just how far this remake pushes the original’s atmosphere.
Smarter Controls, Same Stealth DNA
The option to use the original control scheme is there, but the new layout modernizes the experience completely. Snake now handles more like characters from today’s third-person shooters, making firefights and stealth encounters smoother.
At first, my old muscle memory caused me to hit the wrong buttons, but soon I was lining up tranquilizer shots with ease. The improved camo system with quick shortcuts instead of constant menu-digging finally fixes one of the most frustrating aspects of the original.
The Story: Brilliant Yet Quirky
Snake Eater’s narrative still shines. The emotional depth of The Boss’ arc hits harder than ever, and the game kept me engaged from start to finish. That said, some writing quirks show the game’s age. Characters occasionally fall into long, indulgent monologues, and some story logic like Snake keeping his radio while imprisoned makes little sense.
But these oddities are part of the game’s charm. For longtime fans, they feel nostalgic and even comedic. For newcomers, they might test patience, but they also highlight the unique identity of the series.
Why Metal Gear Solid Δ Justifies Its Existence
Remakes often struggle to prove their necessity, but Metal Gear Solid Δ: Snake Eater does so effortlessly. By preserving the essence of what made the 2004 classic unforgettable while upgrading the visuals, controls, and overall polish, Konami has delivered something both respectful and refreshing.
For returning fans, it’s a reminder of why we fell in love with Snake Eater in the first place. For new players, it’s a perfect entry point into one of gaming’s most celebrated sagas. Snake Eater was a masterpiece two decades ago, and thanks to this remake, it still is today.
By Radoslav Jokic
Updated on 22nd August 2025