Metal Gear Solid 5: Ground Zero

Metal Gear Solid 5 is such a huge game that its developers have had to split it into two. The Ground Zero prequel will be available next month. But the release date for the other part, Metal Gear Solid 5: The Phantom Pain, has not been announced.

Creator Hideo Kojima revealed in interviews that Ground Zero is shorter and is a transition game to The Phantom Pain, which is said to be an open-world-style game.

Ground Zero is expected to be more contained, allowing players to adapt to the new game style.

Ground Zero features a new Fox game engine that will not have loading screens. Still a stealth-based action game that requires players to avoid enemies, it will provide more player interaction with the open-world environment.

In terms of the sprawling Metal Gear Solid story, Ground Zero happens after the events in Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker and the protagonist will be Big Boss.

All eyes will be on Kojima as he evolves his brand of storytelling for a modern audience.

By Vincent Chang

Available on March 18 (US)

Metal Gear Solid 5: Ground Zero

Genre: Action adventure

Platforms: PS3, PS4, Xbox 360, Xbox One