Gameplay

In Metal Gear Solid 4, the player (Old Snake) must navigate the game world in order to progress, using stealth and cunning in addition to traditional combat. It uses third person view with full camera manipulation, but also allows the freedom to play in first-person mode, as well as an over the shoulder view which can be switched from right shoulder to left for corner maneuvering. The Close Quarters Combat system has been completely revamped.

Several elements from previous titles return in modified forms. Players can also use a new form of camouflage called "Octocamo," which replaces the camouflage system featured in Metal Gear Solid 3. The normally dark-blue OctoCamo suit allows the wearer to blend in with any surface within a few seconds. Players use the Sixaxis controller’s motion-sensing capability to reset the OctoCamo to its default color. A new monocular device called "Solid Eye" replaces the various binoculars and image intensifiers from previous titles, and a steel drum complements the series’ traditional cardboard box disguise. It is able to deflect bullets, and can be rolled to knock enemy soldiers over, but can lead to Snake being sick should the player roll around too much.

The game is filled with cut scene "flashbacks" (although they’re not actually cut scenes, but still photos of past events or characters) that explain what happened in previous Metal Gear Solid games and how that relates to the events of MGS4. Players are able to choose whether to view these scenes by pressing the X button [O button in some countries] on their controller when prompted. Players also have the choice of watching the Mission Briefing cut scenes from predetermined camera angles or exploring them with the Metal Gear Mk. II.