Metal Gear fans will soon be able to experience the first half of the legendary stealth series on current-gen hardware. Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol. 1 is set for release on 24th October 2023 for Nintendo Switch, PS4, PS5, PC, and Xbox Series X|S. However, the technical state of the compilation has been called into question, with many fans wondering if MGS1 is widescreen in Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol. 1.
After numerous outlets shared their hands-on previews of the Master Collection on Switch, concern arose about the performance of all versions of the compilation. It appeared that it may run at 720p and target 30 FPS. Considering the age of the Metal Gear Solid games included in the collection, this news came as a surprise to fans.
However, Konami has since confirmed that is not the case. Only the Switch version in handheld mode will run at 720p and target 30 FPS. In docked mode, the Switch version will target 1080p and 30 FPS. The PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, and PC versions of the Master Collection will all target 1080p and 60 FPS.
This means that Master Collection Vol. 1 is essentially a glorified port of 2011’s excellent Metal Gear Solid: HD Collection (not that we’re complaining).
Of course, the original Metal Gear Solid was not included in the HD Collection. So, how will that perform on current-gen consoles?
Is MGS1 widescreen in Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol. 1?
MGS1 is not widescreen in Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol. 1. It is in 4:3 aspect ratio.
There are no graphical enhancements or upscaling – it has been described as an emulation of the original version of MGS1 from 1998.
While this news may disappoint fans, Konami is including a variety of wallpapers which players can use to fill out the screen during gameplay.
According to an official PlayStation blog, Konami is looking to keep the “MGS experience as authentic as possible”. This includes retaining the same button layout as the original games, such as circle being used to select and X to cancel.
Similarly, players will be able to switch player 1 and player 2 controller ports in the menu which will come in handy during the legendary Psycho Mantis boss fight.
Which MGS game are you most excited to play in Master Collection Vol. 1? Let us know in the comment section below and don’t forget to check out our other gaming articles…
