Solid Snake returns as an older, battle-hardened veteran in Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots. Series creator Hideo Kojima reprises his role as director as he brings the critically acclaimed stealth-action series to PlayStation 3 with a number of new elements. The futuristic setting now features expansive, war-torn environments with rival nations vying for control over both territory and technology. Sporting grizzled hair, wrinkles, and a moustache, the weary Snake also has an eye patch that pays homage to his character's inspiration, Escape from New York's antihero Snake Plissken.

Christened "Solid Eye" by Kojima, the eye patch serves as a multifunctional display that allows Snake to view infrared signals, radar, and more. As Snake sneaks through bombed out areas, interior locales, and other detailed environments, players will be able to shape the cinematic storyline through their in-game actions. Missions can be accomplished in multiple ways, and Snake's decisions during the course of play will influence how characters react to him. As in previous games, players can attack enemies in close quarters combat, wear disguises, perform acrobatic moves, use a variety of inventive gadgets, and call on familiar characters for assistance and information.