Metal Gear Solid Delta: Complete Beginner's Guide - 2025

Sammy Schnor

• 3 min read
Metal Gear Solid Delta: Complete Beginner's Guide - 2025

Stepping into the world of tactical espionage action for the first time? Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater launches August 28, 2025, bringing Hideo Kojima's masterpiece to modern consoles with enhanced graphics, improved controls, and quality-of-life features that make it the perfect entry point for newcomers. This comprehensive guide will transform you from rookie to stealth operative in no time.

Quick Answer/TLDR

New to Metal Gear? Start with New Style controls for modern third-person gameplay. Master the camouflage system by matching your outfit to environments (press D-pad for quick changes). Use CQC for silent takedowns, manage Snake's stamina with food, and save frequently. The game rewards patience over rushing—observe enemy patterns before moving.

Requirements & Prerequisites

Platform Specifications

  • Available on: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, PC (Steam)
  • PS5 Pro Enhanced: Higher resolution foliage with PSSR technology
  • Time Investment: 15-20 hours for main story, 30+ hours for completionist
  • Skill Level: Beginner-friendly with adjustable difficulty

Step 1: Choose Your Control Style

Metal Gear Solid Delta offers two distinct control schemes:

  • Modern third-person over-the-shoulder camera
  • Free movement while aiming
  • Similar to modern action games
  • Intuitive for contemporary gamers

Legacy Style

  • Classic top-down camera angle
  • Original PS2 control scheme
  • For series veterans and purists
  • More challenging learning curve

Step 2: Master the Camouflage System

The camouflage system is crucial for survival. Your camo index (displayed as a percentage) shows how well you blend with your environment.

Quick Camo Changes

  • Press D-pad to access quick-select menu (new feature)
  • Green arrows = better camouflage
  • Red arrows = worse camouflage
  • Aim for 75%+ camo index when hiding

Essential Camo Patterns

  • Woodland: Best for grassy/forest areas
  • Tiger Stripe: Excellent all-around choice
  • Splitter: Indoor areas and concrete
  • Snow: Mountain areas (unlock later)
  • Face Paint: Don't forget to match your face!

Step 3: Learn CQC (Close Quarters Combat) Basics

CQC is your best friend for non-lethal takedowns:

  • Grab: Press and hold CQC button near enemy
  • Choke Out: Hold button repeatedly while grabbing
  • Throw: Move analog stick + release button
  • Interrogate: Press interrogate button while holding enemy
  • Human Shield: Hold enemy + aim weapon

Step 4: Manage Snake's Survival Needs

Unlike most action games, Snake has physical needs:

Stamina Management

  • Decreases over time and with actions
  • Low stamina = shaky aim, slower movement
  • Eat captured animals/rations to restore
  • Calorie Mates = best stamina restoration

Health & Healing

  • Access Cure menu when injured
  • Different injuries need specific treatments
  • Bandages for cuts, splints for fractures
  • Sleep recovers health and stamina simultaneously

Step 5: Essential Equipment & Weapons

Must-Have Items

  • Tranquilizer Gun (Mk22): Silent, non-lethal primary weapon
  • Suppressor: Always equip when available
  • Thermal Goggles: See enemies through walls
  • Motion Detector: Reveals moving enemies on radar
  • Cardboard Box: Classic hiding spot (seriously!)

Pro Tips & Advanced Strategies

Stealth Techniques

  • Use the new crouch-walk feature for medium-speed stealth
  • Knock on walls to distract guards
  • Hide bodies in tall grass or lockers
  • Rolling (dive + X) breaks line of sight
  • Hanging from ledges avoids patrols

Boss Fight Preparation

  • Stock up on ammunition before boss areas
  • Each boss has unique patterns—observe first
  • Non-lethal takedowns unlock special camo
  • Save before every boss encounter

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Going Loud: This isn't a typical shooter—stealth is key
  • Ignoring Codec Calls: They provide crucial tips and save points
  • Poor Inventory Management: Drop unnecessary items to make room
  • Forgetting to Save: Save frequently via Codec
  • Not Experimenting: Try different approaches—the game rewards creativity

Alternative Options/Builds

Difficulty Settings

  • Very Easy: More supplies, weaker enemies
  • Easy: Balanced for newcomers
  • Normal: The intended experience
  • Hard/Extreme: For series veterans

Playstyle Options

  • Ghost Run: Complete areas without alerts
  • Non-Lethal: Tranquilizers and CQC only
  • Speed Run: Rush objectives (not recommended first playthrough)

FAQ Section

Q: Do I need to play previous Metal Gear games?

A: No! Snake Eater is a prequel set in 1964, making it the perfect starting point for newcomers to the series.

Q: What's the difference between lethal and non-lethal?

A: Non-lethal (tranquilizers, CQC knockouts) rewards you with better rankings and special boss rewards. Lethal is faster but offers fewer rewards.

Q: How often should I save?

A: Save via Codec frequently—before boss fights, after difficult sections, and whenever you make significant progress. There's no auto-save!

Q: Is the PS5 version different from Xbox/PC?

A: PS5 gets Snake vs Monkey mode (Ape Escape crossover), Xbox gets exclusive Bomberman content, and PC gets both modes plus mod support.

Q: What are Kerotans and GA-KOs?

A: Hidden collectible frogs (Kerotans) and ducks (GA-KOs) scattered throughout levels. Finding them all unlocks special rewards and achievements.

After mastering these basics, you'll be ready to tackle advanced techniques like speedrunning strategies, European Extreme difficulty, and finding all 64 Kerotans. Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater launches August 28, 2025, with Digital Deluxe Edition owners getting 48-hour early access starting August 26.

Remember: patience and observation beat rushing every time. This isn't just another action game—it's a masterclass in tactical espionage action. Take your time, experiment with different approaches, and enjoy one of gaming's greatest adventures reimagined for modern hardware.

Happy sneaking, rookie!