Metal Gear Solid 2 improves upon its predecessor in almost every single respect. From the cramped spaces that accentuate the stealth gameplay, to the atmosphere that adds further believability to the world and the controls, which, while still flawed, are massively better than in the previous title. Everything comes together to create a memorable experience that’s a joy to go back and have again.

I never had the chance to play this game or MGS1 on release and so many parts of both games were spoiled for me. I can’t imagine how I would have felt back in the day about playing as Raiden. However, from my first time playing this and my most recent playthrough, I think changing your overnight iconic protagonist for the sequel is an incredibly bold move and I commend the team for making this choice. Too often, games (and other media) pander to fans and I appreciate it when we can be challenged instead.

Overall, aside from a few tedious moments, I had such a blast with this game that I finished it in two sittings. A true classic that anybody who is interested in the genre should play.