With a plausible plotline (within the MGS universe at least), charismatic bosses, a likable supporting cast, and actual character development in an action game, MGR creates something unique by smoothly melding a bevy of genre staples. MGR manages to feel like an extension of MGS while standing on its own strengths. I honestly can't remember the last time I played a game with such memorable boss fights. MGR's bosses are an outstanding example of good game design in every way possible. Bosses will beat techniques into you and make you get good, only to have the next boss require you to "unlearn" and adapt your previous strategies. MGR is a video game made by people who actually play video games and it shows. Western devs are trying so hard to remove bosses and "video gamey" elements that when something like MGR comes along it feels like a breath of fresh air despite doing nothing revolutionary. Somehow the game overcomes its shortcomings by combining ridiculous over-the-top cutscenes, a diverse OST with tracks ranging from traditional MGS-style ambience to blood-pumping boss themes, and a cast of uniquely difficult bosses that all feel like properly fleshed out worthy opponents for your anime cyborg ninja. The combat is a bit button-mashy (with slowly reacting AI) on lower difficulties, map design is mostly point A to point B, and the weapon variety is very limited. MGR is probably the best example of a game being more than just the sum of its parts.
MGR isn't that game, but it sure is close to it.
MGR isn't that game, but it sure Have you ever played a game so amazing that you don't know if you'll ever play a game as good as it again?. Have you ever played a game so amazing that you don't know if you'll ever play a game as good as it again?.