Metal Gear Solid: VR Missions is the last game in the series to not be individually available on the PlayStation 3, a fact which Konami seems to be correcting by releasing it through digital distribution methods. An ESRB rating for the game has popped up on the rating system's website indicating that a release on the PlayStation Store is bound to happen soon.
Up until this point, the best ways to play the game on Sony's outbound console was to either throw in the original disc or to pick up Metal Gear Solid: The Legacy Collection released in July. Those who already owned every other game in some capacity, like in the Metal Gear Solid HD Collection, had been asking for a way to conveniently and cheaply pick up the game, and now they have a solution.
Metal Gear Solid: VR Missions is a game designed for those who enjoy the classic game's solid stealth mechanics and are not out for its narrative. Over 300 exclusive virtual reality missions play out Snake's training on a simulator as he wraps his brain around more in-depth uses of his abilities.
Further bonuses include being able to play as Grey Fox, the cyber ninja from the main story, or battling a several hundred foot tall soldier.
I played it back in the day and walked away a little unsatisfied. I think I rented it at Blockbuster expecting it to be the real game and was disappointed when I found out otherwise. I would more than love to give it another shot at the right price and see if I can take the abilities I learn from it into the real game.
It's also great to see that Sony has not abandoned the PSOne Classics line. There are still handfuls of wonderful games, including magnificent JRPGs, which have not yet been released.
Konami has yet to officially confirm the release, so consider this a rumor with ESRB backing until it actually happens. We can also assume that it will be playable on the PlayStation Vita and PSP as well.
