After years of anticipation, fans of the legendary Metal Gear Solid series can finally rejoice as the highly anticipated Metal Gear Solid: Snake Eater is set to release for Xbox Series X/S, PS5, and PC on August 28th.
This remake, which has already created a buzz among gamers, promises to bring back all the thrilling gameplay elements from the original title while incorporating modern-day advancements in technology.
With returning voice actors like David Hayter and Lori Alan, who are known for their roles as Snake and Meryl, respectively, fans can expect a nostalgic experience filled with familiar characters and dialogue.
But perhaps one of the most exciting updates for long-time fans is the return of Cynthia Harrell, the iconic singer of the original Snake Eater theme.
The Return of “Snake Eater” Theme
One of the most beloved aspects of Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater, the game from which this remake draws its inspiration, is the theme song “Snake Eater.”
Originally written and composed by Norihiko Hibino, the song became synonymous with the game and was praised for its dramatic, cinematic style.
It wasn’t originally intended to be the main theme for the game, though. Metal Gear director Hideo Kojima had originally planned for a different song, “Don’t Be Afraid” by Rika Muranaka, to be used.
However, after hearing “Snake Eater,” Kojima was captivated by the track’s powerful arrangement, which echoed the sounds of a classic James Bond movie theme. In a turn of fate, the song was chosen instead and went on to become one of the most memorable pieces in the Metal Gear franchise.
For this remake, fans will be able to hear a fresh version of “Snake Eater” sung by Cynthia Harrell, who performed the original track.
This new rendition is featured in the opening title sequence of Metal Gear Solid: Snake Eater, which was recently revealed in the latest Metal Gear Solid Legacy episode.
Though it’s not the only place you’ll hear the track in the game, the iconic “Snake Eater” theme makes a return toward the end of the game, adding to the emotional weight of the narrative.
A Bit of History Behind the Theme
The original “Snake Eater” song was one of the standout elements in Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater and became an integral part of its identity.
The track’s mixture of jazz, orchestral arrangements, and bold brass sections created a unique atmosphere that resonated with players.
Its association with the game’s Cold War-era setting made it feel all the more immersive, while its dramatic lyrics, sung by Harrell’s stunning vocals, provided an epic backdrop for the game’s events.
Since its release, the song has garnered widespread praise and been covered by various artists, becoming a fan favorite across the world.
Interestingly, “Snake Eater” was a last-minute decision. Initially, Kojima and his team wanted something that would reflect the era of the game.
The idea was to find a song that matched the gritty, wartime narrative of Metal Gear Solid 3. But after hearing “Snake Eater,” a song that sounded both grand and somber, Kojima knew it was the perfect fit. In a sense, the composition almost became a fortuitous accident, but one that left a significant mark on video game music.
In the latest remake, Metal Gear Solid: Snake Eater, the updated version of the song stays true to the original’s emotional depth, while also introducing new elements.
Harrell’s voice once again graces the track, capturing the same feeling that made the song unforgettable all those years ago.
Pre-Orders and What to Expect?
The excitement surrounding the Metal Gear Solid: Snake Eater release is palpable, with pre-orders now available worldwide.
Fans are eagerly awaiting their chance to dive back into the jungles of the Cold War, reliving Snake’s journey and confronting new challenges and enemies.
The remake promises to include enhanced graphics, improved gameplay mechanics, and additional content that will make the experience feel more immersive than ever before.
While Metal Gear Solid has always been known for its intricate storytelling and engaging stealth-based gameplay, this remake is expected to elevate those aspects even further.
With the inclusion of updated voice acting, a remastered soundtrack, and of course, the legendary “Snake Eater” theme, Metal Gear Solid: Snake Eater is shaping up to be a must-play for both newcomers and longtime fans of the series.
The Legacy of Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater
It’s hard to overstate the impact Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater had on the gaming industry when it was first released in 2004.
The game introduced players to a new kind of stealth gameplay, where careful planning, patience, and strategic thinking were required to succeed.
At the time, it was a massive departure from the traditional first-person shooter mechanics that were common in other games. Snake Eater made players feel like they were truly part of a covert operation, with every step taken toward the mission feeling consequential.
The game’s setting, steeped in Cold War-era politics, gave it an authenticity that many other titles of its time lacked.
The addition of unique gameplay features, such as the necessity to survive in the harsh environment (managing food, health, and stamina), sets it apart from other action titles.
Metal Gear Solid 3 proved that video games could be as immersive and emotionally impactful as any film or novel.
Now, as Metal Gear Solid: Snake Eater approaches, fans are excited to see how the franchise’s legacy will be handled with updated technology and modern capabilities.
Summary
Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater is set to launch on August 28th, bringing back the thrilling stealth gameplay and immersive storytelling of the original Snake Eater.
With the return of iconic voice actors and the much-loved “Snake Eater” theme song, re-recorded by Cynthia Harrell, the remake promises to deliver a nostalgic yet fresh experience for fans.
With pre-orders now live and fans eagerly awaiting the new version, Metal Gear Solid: Snake Eater is poised to be one of the most talked-about releases of the year.