Finding meaning in a world with no definite metaphysical truth to strive for is already hard but compound that with being in an era of war and all the characters in this world being AI just beginning to understand having humanity. Their attempts at constructing meaning set to fail, saying so much about us in the process. You end up with one of the most profoundly written stories of the modern era. Heartbreaking, philosophical, masterful medium utility, almost meditative as an experience. Just a masterpiece.

Humanity is destined to be in constant conflict with one another. Battling for dominance over political and economic power. With each new huge conflict comes a change in humanities senses when it comes to the political climate. What this gives birth to is key players in history never able to eternally be celebrated as heroes no matter their legacy. Yet these "heroes" are also needed. They sacrifice so much for only a brief moment of glory that ends up fading with time, if they are even rewarded that to begin with.

Often these key figures end up playing out roles that end up suppressing, dulling or even killing their humanity. Caught in the complicated fabric of the times and the backstabbing nature of the upper echelons of politics. Throughout all of this we get our almost innocent protagonist who we know will fall to darkness eventually. What ensues is one of the most emotional, tragic studies ever. With a cast that meshes perfectly with everything the story talks about, full of rich dynamics, charismatic personalities and beautifully realized internal struggles. Almost every conversation has 2 - 3 layers to it, its so masterful. I honestly think this game is a step above MGS2 and that is the highest praise I can give it. A contender for best video game story.