Metal Gear Solid Master Collection Vol. 1 Reviews Roundup

We are sure that the Metal Gear saga does not need any kind of presentation, especially since it is one of the pillars of gaming. In any case, after the various editions that have been released, Konami has once again wanted to push on what are some of the most significant and loved chapters of the series. For this reason, here is what some of the major publications think about Metal Gear Solid Master Collection Vol. 1, so that you can have a general idea about this new edition of the work.

Finger Guns – 9/10

“Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol. 1 brings together five stellar video games from a beloved series. While a lack of further improvements and minor bugs get in the way, newcomers and die-hard MGS fans alike can find a trove of incredible content in this bundle. Kojima’s masterpieces have been respected, honoured and have demonstrated their quality through the ages, a meme passed down worthy of the title of Big Boss.” [Read full review] – Miles Thompson

Shacknews – 8/10

“If there are indeed plans to continue, Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol. 1 is a hell of a first volley. From tweaks and fixes of previous re-releases to an abundance of supplemental material across a whopping seven (arguably more) games, Konami really rolled up its sleeves. Even with some problems and weird choices here and there, this collection exceeded my expectations for sure. Whatever follows this will really put the format to the test, as there’s less precedent and/or existing ports for games like Metal Gear Solid 4 or Metal Gear Acid. The foundation laid is awesome though, and shows that despite past drama there are people at Konami who definitely care.” [Read full review] – Lucas White

Push Square – 8/10

“The Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection bundles together three of the greatest games ever made, but does so in a convoluted manner. Spread across five separate apps on PS5, it can be a challenge to locate the specific version or the bonus feature you need. The digital packaging surrounding the three classics doesn't quite feel like the labour of love it should do, but once you sink into the PS1 original, Sons of Liberty, or Snake Eater, it's abundantly clear there's still nothing quite like Metal Gear Solid. Konami's Master Collection gets by on the ever-lasting quality of its fallen series, not the means that have brought it back.” [Read full review] – Liam Croft

GameSpot – 8/10

“Konami has still put together a comprehensive bundle, collecting five highly influential games (and multiple variations) from a period spanning 24 years. There are other ways to play these games, but I think we often undersell the appeal of convenience. Being able to easily access them all on a modern console is a major selling point. For someone like me, who only ever owned the original games on their original consoles, Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol. 1 is indispensable. It's disappointing that there aren't any optional visual improvements or behind-the-scenes material, and the lack of a central hub makes the bundle feel scattershot. The bonus content that is here is simply a cherry on top, however, lending the entire package a sense of reverence for one of the most important series in video game history.” [Read full review] – Richard Wakeling

PlayStation Lifestyle – 8/10

“Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol. 1 does not have everything that a modern collection should have. Its inability to ubiquitously implement modern features like save states and rewinding only keeps players from fully celebrating the history this compilation seems intent on celebrating. But the extras paint a decent portrait of its accomplishments by delving deep into its lore and speaking to almost every entry’s significance within the medium. And even though the actual games haven’t seen many improvements, they are still unique marvels generations later that lovingly balance quirky jokes and deadly serious diatribes about nuclear proliferation. The bundle largely captures what makes the franchise so beloved, even if some useful quality-of-life features have sneaked on by it.” [Read full review] – Michael Leri

Press Start – 7.5/10

“Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol. 1 does precisely what it claims to do – bring the first three Metal Gear Solid games to all major platforms after a much-felt absence. While the technical updates given to each game are scarce, this still represents a great way to get into one of the most important and prolific series in video games. Could there be some more touch-ups to modernise these games? Absolutely. But it's hard to ignore the quality of the games included in this package, and it's a testament to their strengths that, even with slight improvement, they're still as compelling as ever.” [Read full review] – James Mitchell

Noisy Pixel – 7.5/10

“Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol. 1 is a nostalgic journey that allows new players to experience the iconic Metal Gear series on modern hardware. While some of the games may not have received extensive visual improvements, the timeless narratives, and innovative gameplay mechanics continue to shine. The emphasis on stealth, the intricate political commentary, and the potential for experimentation make this collection a must-play for any gaming enthusiast.” [Read full review] – Azario Lopez

Gamereactor UK – 7/10

“No, there's not much here to justify a purchase if you already own the twelve-year-old HD Collection, or the ten-year-old Legacy Collection. Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol. 1 is well-stocked but incomplete, containing great games that could have been updated, and putting money straight into the pockets of a greedy publisher. Buy, but only in an emergency, and at your own risk.” [Read full review] – Olof Westerberg