Metal Gear Solid Delta: 10 Essential Tips for First-Time Players - 2025

Sammy Schnor

• 4 min read
Feature image for blog post

The legendary tactical espionage action series returns with Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater, launching August 28, 2025. For many players, this remake marks their first journey into Hideo Kojima's masterpiece. Whether you're a stealth game veteran or completely new to sneaking past guards, these essential tips will help you master the jungle warfare of Operation Snake Eater.

Quick Answer/TLDR

New to MGS Delta? Focus on: 1) Stay prone and use camo for 75%+ index, 2) Choose modern controls for easier gameplay, 3) Tranquilize enemies instead of killing, 4) Eat wildlife to maintain stamina, 5) Save frequently at different slots. Master these basics first, then explore deeper mechanics.

Requirements & Prerequisites

Platform Requirements:

  • PC: 60fps support, recommended for best experience
  • PS5/Xbox Series X: Limited to 30fps (Quality mode: 4K/30fps, Performance mode: 1080p/30fps+)
  • Storage: Approximately 50GB
  • Controller: Highly recommended for all platforms

Difficulty Settings:

  • Very Easy: Best for story-focused players
  • Easy: Recommended for first-timers
  • Normal: Balanced challenge
  • Hard/Extreme: For series veterans only

1. Master the Camo Index System

Your camo index percentage determines visibility to enemies. Unlike modern stealth games, MGS Delta requires active camouflage management.

Key Strategies:

  • Match your camo pattern to the environment (woodland, desert, etc.)
  • Apply face paint for additional concealment
  • Stay prone or crouched for higher percentages
  • Remove equipment that reflects light
  • Aim for 75%+ camo index in enemy areas

Pro Tip: The Leaf camo works in most jungle areas early game. Combine with Woodland face paint for optimal stealth.

2. Choose Your Control Scheme Wisely

MGS Delta offers two control options that fundamentally change gameplay:

Modern Controls (Recommended for New Players):

  • Right stick camera control
  • Intuitive third-person aiming
  • Simplified CQC inputs
  • More accessible for contemporary gamers

Classic Controls:

  • Fixed camera angles in some areas
  • Original PS2 button mapping
  • Requires adaptation period
  • Preserves original experience

Important: The game adjusts difficulty based on your control choice. Modern controls make certain sections easier, which the game compensates for with slightly more aggressive AI.

3. Survival Mechanics: Eating and Healing

Unlike typical action games, Snake needs food to maintain stamina:

Stamina Management:

  • Depleted stamina affects aim stability and movement speed
  • Capture wildlife using traps or tranquilizer
  • Some animals are poisonous - check before eating
  • Rotten food causes sickness but can be tactical

Healing System:

  • Use Cure menu for treating injuries
  • Different wounds require specific treatments
  • Broken bones need splints AND bandages
  • Burns require ointment before bandaging

4. Stealth Over Action: The Non-Lethal Approach

Killing enemies creates long-term problems:

Benefits of Non-Lethal:

  • No reinforcements called
  • Easier boss fight later (avoiding spoilers)
  • More tactical options
  • Cleaner mission ratings

Essential Non-Lethal Tools:

  • Mk22 Tranquilizer Pistol (your best friend)
  • CQC chokehold (hold Circle/B)
  • Sleep grenades for groups
  • Tranquilizer sniper for distance

5. Alert Phase Management

When spotted, don't panic. The alert system has distinct phases:

Alert Phases:

  1. Alert: Enemies actively hunt you
  2. Evasion: They search your last known position
  3. Caution: Heightened patrol patterns
  4. Normal: Regular patrol routes

Escape Tactics:

  • Break line of sight immediately
  • Hide in tall grass or lockers
  • Change camo if time permits
  • Use smoke grenades for quick escapes
  • Climbing trees often breaks pursuit

6. Boss Fight Preparation

MGS Delta's bosses require specific strategies:

General Boss Tips:

  • Stock up on ammo before encounters
  • Learn attack patterns before engaging
  • Environmental kills often exist
  • Non-lethal takedowns unlock special rewards
  • Save in multiple slots before boss areas

Essential Items for Bosses:

  • Rations for health recovery
  • Fake death pill for emergencies
  • Appropriate camo for the arena
  • Both lethal and non-lethal weapons

7. Equipment and Weight Management

Carrying too much slows movement and drains stamina faster:

Loadout Optimization:

  • Limit to 2-3 primary weapons
  • Always carry Mk22 tranquilizer
  • Pack light for stealth sections
  • Store extra items in backpack
  • Drop unnecessary equipment before boss fights

8. Hidden Codec Frequencies

The codec system hides valuable intel and Easter eggs:

Important Frequencies:

  • 140.15: Save frequency (use often!)
  • 141.80: Healing radio (medical advice)
  • 148.13: Hidden conversations
  • Check every new area for unique calls

Tip: Call your support team after acquiring new items or entering new areas for contextual hints.

9. Performance Settings Guide

Optimize your experience based on platform:

PC Players:

  • Enable 60fps for smoother gameplay
  • Adjust FOV if motion sick
  • Consider controller for authentic experience

Console Players:

  • Quality mode for screenshots/cutscenes
  • Performance mode for gameplay (still 30fps but more stable)
  • Disable motion blur if available

10. Advanced Techniques to Practice

Once comfortable with basics, master these:

CQC Combinations:

  • Grab → Interrogate → Choke
  • Quick throws for instant knockdowns
  • Weapon disarms save ammo

Movement Tech:

  • Rolling reduces damage from falls
  • Hanging from ledges avoids patrols
  • First-person view for precise shots

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Rushing Through Areas: Patience prevents alerts
  2. Ignoring Stamina: Low stamina ruins aim
  3. Hoarding Items: Use items liberally, they respawn
  4. Fighting Every Enemy: Avoidance is often better
  5. Single Save Slot: Multiple saves prevent frustration

Alternative Approaches

Speed Run Style:

  • Learn guard patterns
  • Minimal equipment
  • Skip optional content
  • Focus on story progression

Completionist Route:

  • Collect all camos
  • Find every Kerotan frog
  • Complete all side objectives
  • Non-lethal boss defeats

FAQ Section

Q: Should I play on Very Easy if I'm new to Metal Gear?

A: Yes, there's no shame in starting on Very Easy. The story and stealth mechanics are still fully present.

Q: Can I change difficulty mid-game?

A: Yes, you can lower difficulty at any time, but raising it requires starting a new game.

Q: Is the 30fps limit on console a dealbreaker?

A: While 60fps on PC is smoother, the deliberate pace of MGS suits 30fps better than fast action games.

Q: Do I need to eat every animal I find?

A: No, but variety unlocks food preferences. Some animals provide better stamina recovery.

Q: What happens if I kill too many enemies?

A: A certain boss fight becomes significantly harder, and you'll miss some story elements.

  • Check back for our boss guide series launching next week
  • Advanced CQC techniques guide coming soon
  • Camo location guide for completionists
  • Story analysis and timeline explanation

Metal Gear Solid Delta brings a timeless classic to modern platforms. Take your time, experiment with different approaches, and remember: this is a thinking person's action game. The best weapon isn't your gun—it's your brain.

Happy sneaking, and welcome to the world of tactical espionage action!