Why Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain Is Still Worth Playing In 2025

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A decade later, Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain still holds its ground as one of the best stealth-action games ever made. Released in 2015 as the ninth entry in the iconic Metal Gear series, it was the final project directed by the legendary Hideo Kojima. But here’s the big question: Is it still worth playing in 2025? Absolutely. And here’s why.

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Stealth Gameplay at Its Finest

What are the game’s stealth mechanics? Still unmatched.

Metal Gear Solid V set the bar for freedom in stealth gameplay. Whether you prefer sneaking like a shadow or going full Rambo, the choice is yours. Every mission offers multiple ways to succeed. Each playthrough? Feels brand new.

Visually Impressive—Even Now

A game from 2015 looking this good in 2025? Rare.

Powered by the Fox Engine, the visuals still shine. Detailed environments. Realistic character movements. Smooth animations. Even compared to modern titles, it holds up remarkably well. Plus, it’s optimized to run smoothly on older systems. No high-end PC? No problem.

A Massive, Deep Open World

Set in Soviet-occupied Afghanistan and the Angola-Zaire border, the open world feels expansive and alive.

You’ll explore side missions, hidden secrets, and endless tactical options. But there’s more—Mother Base management. Recruit enemy soldiers. Gather resources. Expand your base. It’s strategy layered on top of action, making the gameplay even richer.

More Than Nostalgia—It’s Quality

This isn’t just a nostalgic trip. It’s quality design.

The gameplay? Deep and rewarding. The mechanics? Sharp and flexible. The freedom of choice? Still incredible.

It’s a game that rewards creative thinking and experimentation, making every session feel engaging, whether you’re a veteran or a first-timer.

Potential Downsides

No game is perfect. Even this masterpiece.

• Quiet’s design? Controversial.
• Outdated jokes? A few might not land well today.

But these are minor issues compared to the overall experience. The gameplay depth and storytelling far outweigh these flaws.

New to the Metal Gear Universe? No problem.

The Phantom Pain can be a great starting point, even deep into the series timeline.

Want to explore the full story? Check out The Master Collection Vol. 1. It bundles the earlier entries, helping you experience the saga in order.

So, why play it in 2025?

Simple: It’s still one of the best stealth games ever made.

• Groundbreaking open-world design
• Flawless stealth mechanics
• Kojima’s unique storytelling

Whether you’re a die-hard fan revisiting a classic or a newcomer discovering its brilliance, Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain is still a must-play. Even a decade later, it’s a masterclass in game design.

Also Read: Marvel Rivals Leaderboard: Track Top Players Like A Pro

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