In 2023, Konami released the Metal Gear Solid Master Collection Volume 1, which received mixed reviews due to bugs and subpar visuals. However, version 2.0 aimed to rectify these issues on both console and PC platforms. This collection contains seven core games from the Metal Gear Solid series, presented with some extra features. Today, let’s delve into the improvements made to the Metal Gear Solid trilogy, which includes the more demanding full 3D entries that originally debuted on PlayStation 1 and 2.
### A Clearer Picture: Enhancements in Image Quality
One of the most pressing issues with Metal Gear Solid 2 and 3 in the Master Collection was the low image quality, running at a native 720p resolution across all platforms. However, with the introduction of patch 2.0, players can now adjust the internal resolution to 1080p, along with a separate upscaling option using AMD’s FSR technology. Additionally, a movie setting has been added to enhance pre-rendered cutscenes, providing a crisper and cleaner viewing experience.
The new ‘adjusted’ mode, which combines the native 1080p rendering, 4K upscaling, and high resolution movies, has significantly improved the visual fidelity of the games. While there are still some visual artifacts present, the jump from 720p to 1080p has resulted in a sharper image quality, especially in detailed environments like the oil rig in MGS2 and the forests in MGS3. These enhancements have made a noticeable difference in the overall presentation of these classic titles.
### Performance Improvements and Platform-Specific Challenges
On the Nintendo Switch, the Master Collection still runs at a native 720p resolution and lacks certain visual features available on other platforms. However, patch 2.0 has addressed frame-rate issues, particularly in Metal Gear Solid 2, improving the overall gameplay experience. Despite these improvements, the Switch version still struggles to maintain a consistent frame rate, especially in demanding scenarios.
As for the PC version, while patch 2.0 has enhanced the overall experience, there are still limitations in terms of graphics settings. The addition of native resolution settings and keyboard/mouse controls has improved the gameplay experience, but the lack of support for ultrawide resolutions and low-quality texture filtering remains a downside. However, the PC version shines when it comes to user mods, offering true native 4K resolutions and enhanced textures that elevate the visual fidelity of the games.
### The Power of Mods: Elevating the Experience
User mods play a crucial role in transforming the Metal Gear Solid Master Collection on PC. With mods like MGSHDFix and AI upscaled textures, players can achieve true native 4K resolutions and improved asset quality, surpassing the default settings provided by Konami. The PC version, with its mod support, offers the best experience for playing Metal Gear Solid 2 and 3, showcasing the potential for enhanced visuals and gameplay.
In conclusion, while the Metal Gear Solid Master Collection has made significant improvements with patch 2.0, there are still lingering issues across different platforms. The texture filtering problem on Xbox consoles remains unsolved, and the resolution is limited to 1080p at best on consoles and PC. Despite these challenges, the Master Collection remains one of the best ways to experience the Metal Gear Solid series on modern systems. As Konami continues to refine the collection, there is hope for an even better and more polished experience for fans of the iconic franchise.
