While Metal Gear Solid Delta may appear to be a significant remake, its core structure remains largely the same. Loading screens still separate the areas, the dialogue audio hasn’t changed, and cutscenes are primarily re-creations of the original. However, there are various quality-of-life improvements and subtle updates that may not be immediately obvious. Below, we detail the key changes and differences from previous versions of Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater.
The original Snake Eater offered a diverse range of strategies for approaching encounters, but it required adding new systems to an aging control scheme from the initial Metal Gear Solid. In Delta, the controls have been significantly revamped to align more closely with modern gaming standards, especially if you opt for the New Style control scheme.
Control adjustments include trigger-based aiming and firing, moving weapons to the D-pad, crouching assigned to the circle button, and climbing mapped to the X button. Rolling has been simplified to Triangle, while you can still go prone quickly by holding it after rolling.
Close Quarters Combat (CQC) functions have also seen a shift to the right trigger, though the fundamental concepts remain relatively unchanged. Pressure-sensitive buttons are a thing of the past; for instance, instead of applying pressure to the Circle button to execute a throat slit, you can simply press X when holding an enemy.
New features allow for hybrid Legacy Controls, but doing so switches you back to the Legacy Camera, requiring a reload of your last checkpoint. This means you can’t easily transition between camera styles mid-game. Additionally, some areas retain the original camera perspective for dramatic effect, even in New Style.
Several gameplay enhancements include crouch walking, enabling you to move while crouched rather than just going prone. The map is barebones like before, but now features a compass in your equipment menu to help you navigate better without consuming battery. You can also receive helpful on-screen prompts for actions and contextual commands.
Lastly, the game introduces a photo mode that allows you to adjust depth of field and filters during gameplay. Delta also includes a new collectible camouflaged rubber duck alongside the classic kerotan frogs, which adds depth to the exploration experience. With streamlined gameplay mechanics and modernized controls, Delta provides both nostalgia and innovation for fans of the series.
