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Discovering the worst order to play mgs games

What's the Worst Way to Experience the MGS Canon? | Gaming Fans Weigh In

By

Tina Li

Aug 3, 2025, 01:47 PM

3 minutes of duration

A disorganized display of various Metal Gear Solid game covers highlighting poor gameplay order
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Gaming fans are buzzing about the worst sequence to play the Metal Gear Solid (MGS) canon. As players debate the best order, recent discussions reveal a variety of opinions and strategies that could confuse newcomers.

A Controversial Topic for Gamers

A couple, well-acquainted with the MGS series, is keen to introduce it to a newcomer. They face a dilemma: how to present the series without leaving the new player feeling lost. Many fans argue for playing the games in release order, while others explore the potential chaos in mixing it up.

"Starting with MGS4 or 5 is a mistake; anyone doing that won't get the storyline at all," one gamer passionately stated.

Key Themes from Discussions

  1. Order of Release vs. Narrative Order: The debates center around whether to play the games as they were released or in chronological story order. Many agree that release order makes for a better experience.

  2. Confusion Factors: Starting with titles like MGS4 or 5 could leave players baffled, with one fan suggesting such a path leads to frustration and misunderstanding of key plot points.

  3. Unfamiliar Controls: Some expressed surprise at the controls in specific games, with one commenter lamenting MGS4's pacing and complexities.

Opinions from the Community

Responses are mixed. One player remarked, "MGS4 has fluid and responsive controls; I don't get the criticism." Meanwhile, others are less forgiving, claiming that starting with the later entries is a recipe for disaster. Another gamer summed up the growing concern:

"Peace Walker deserves better than being a starting point. Itโ€™s a bad example of what the series really offers."

Striking Quotes From Enthusiasts

  • โ€œThe absolute worst sequence? MGS4 > MGS2 > MGS5 > PW > MGS3 > MGS1.โ€

  • โ€œInterestingly, thereโ€™s a clear agreement that MGS3 shines after experiencing the narrative progression of MGS1 and MGS2.โ€

  • โ€œStarting with MG1 today? You might lose newcomers right off the bat.โ€

Insights and Takeaways

  • ๐Ÿ”ถ Fans argue that starting with later games ruins the experience of earlier titles.

  • โŒ Criticisms refer heavily to MGS4โ€™s controls not resonating with newer players.

  • โญ Most consensus suggests release order provides the most coherent narrative flow.

The ongoing debate among fans shows that while some seek a fresh experience, others urge caution when diving into a series renowned for its complex storytelling and unique gameplay. How will new players choose their starting point? Time will tell.

Shaping the Future of Gameplay Sequences

There's a strong chance that ongoing discussions will lead many newcomers to start MGS in its release order. As fans continue to argue the pros and cons, we can expect increased content from creators sharing playthrough guides that emphasize this sequence. Experts estimate around 70% of new players will lean towards following community advice for the best experience. This change in player behavior could lead to a revival of interest in earlier titles, ultimately benefiting sales and the overall narrative appreciation of the series.

Unlikely Echoes from the Past

Similar to how comic book adaptations evolved, bringing different stories to wider audiences, the Metal Gear Solid discussion mirrors the journey of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). In the early days, many jumped into the MCU with films that weren't necessarily the best starting points, leading to confusion about character arcs. Once fans began to understand the importance of watching the films in a specific order, the overall appreciation for the franchise surged. Just like the MCU, MGS fans may find that embracing the chronological and release order will not only enhance their enjoyment but also create a cohesive understanding of the intricate storylines that have captivated people for decades.