Metal Gear: all version differences
6 documented differences between the releases of Metal Gear, each with a source. Back to the main page for names, releases and where to play.
Category × version
| Category | NES/Famicom | Famicom (JP) | NES (NA/EU) | MSX2 | NES |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Content | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Gameplay | 1 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 1 |
| Text | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
Version differences
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ContentNES/Famicom
The Metal Gear robot never appears in the NES version: because of hardware limits, the final boss is a supercomputer guarded by four soldiers.1
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GameplayNES/Famicom
The MSX2 game opens with an underwater infiltration, while on the NES Snake parachutes into a jungle with three other soldiers; enemy placement and building layouts also differ.1
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GameplayFamicom (JP)
In the Famicom version enemies no longer show the "!!" alert and stop chasing once Snake leaves the screen, so stealth matters much less and the game is easier.2
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TextNES (NA/EU)
The English NES localization is known for errors such as "I feel asleep!!" and "Contact missing our Grey Fox".1
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GameplayMSX2NES
The NES version uses passwords, while the MSX2 version saves to tape or to a Game Master II cartridge.1
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ContentNES/Famicom
The NES version removes the Metal Gear tank, adds a pair of turret gunners called Twin Shot and splits the basements into separate Buildings 4 and 5.1
Sources
Checked: 2026-10-13