Frequently Asked Questions
What are Rank Flags?
Rank affects which characters and items you can access in the game. Big Boss starts you at rank 0. Adding Rank +4, +2, or +1 increases your rank value. Higher rank opens access to characters like Jennifer (requires 4-star rank) and additional equipment and support options throughout the fortress.
What is Twin Shock / Binocular?
Special equipment items. Twin Shock is a radar/radio jamming device. Binocular allows you to scout distant areas and enemy positions. Select one of these optional items in the Equipment section. Big Boss will teach you how to use them when you encounter them in-game.
What are Prisoners?
Metal Gear features 22 prisoners scattered throughout Outer Heaven. Rescuing them provides tactical information and support. Prisoners 1-4 use compact encoding (only one can be selected). Prisoners 5-22 are tracked individually. The fake Dr. Pettrovich warns you that rescuing them is crucial to your mission.
What does "Supercomputer" mean?
The Supercomputer is the control center for Metal Gear's functions, located in Subbasement 100 of Building #3. Dr. Pettrovich tells you that you must place 16 plastic explosives on the Supercomputer to destroy Metal Gear. This is a critical item in your equipment loadout.
How many Cards do I need?
Metal Gear contains 8 numbered cards (Cards #1-#8) that open specific doors throughout the fortress. Big Boss advises: "You need the right NUMBER CARD for the DOOR you want." Finding and carrying the correct cards is essential for navigating the facility and reaching key areas.
What are Rations and the Gas Mask?
Rations are emergency food supplies. Big Boss warns you not to eat them prematurely—save them for when you really need them. The Gas Mask is required to survive in gas-filled areas within Building #1 and #5. Schneider can tell you where to find it if you ask on his frequency.
What is the Compass for?
The Compass is located on the 2nd floor of Building #2. You'll need it to navigate the desert area between buildings. Prisoners will warn you: "Can't cross the DESERT without a COMPASS!" It's essential equipment for outdoor travel.
What weapons are available?
Snake can carry a Hand Gun (Beretta M92F), Submachine Gun (Ingram MAC-11), Grenade Launcher (M79), and Remote Control Missile. Each has limited ammunition capacity. Big Boss emphasizes: "The amount of AMMUNITION you can carry is LIMITED. BE CAREFUL!" Steal ammo from enemy guards when possible.
What is the Silencer for?
The Silencer attaches to your hand gun to muffle gunshots. This helps you remain undetected by enemy guards. Diane strategically suggests using the grenade launcher against Twin Shot and remote control missiles against the Machine-Gun Kid instead of guns.
What about infiltration and the enemy uniform?
Big Boss instructs you to infiltrate covertly. Enemy uniforms can be found in Building #4 and will fool guards at the Building #2 roadblock. Schneider tells you to use them to slip through. Wearing uniforms is a key stealth tactic.
What are Infrared Sensors and Goggles?
Infrared sensors are alarm systems placed throughout Building #1. Infrared Goggles allow you to see them and avoid triggering alarms. Big Boss warns: "WATCH OUT FOR INFRARED SENSORS. You will need INFRARED GOGGLES." The goggles are essential for navigating sensor-protected areas.
What is the Iron Glove?
The Iron Glove is used to tap on walls to find hidden doors. Schneider explains: "TAP ON THE WALLS. LOOK FOR A DOOR. If you have an IRON GLOVE, you SHOULD be able to find it." This is crucial for discovering the hidden areas throughout the fortress.
What about the Bomb-Blast Suit and Body Armor?
The Bomb-Blast Suit provides protection against explosions and air blasts. It's found on the 2nd floor of Building #1. Body Armor provides general protection. Big Boss humorously says: "A MAN doesn't need BODY ARMOR!" but it can be useful protective equipment.
What is the Mine Detector?
The Mine Detector helps you navigate areas with enemy land mines. It's located on the roof of Building #1 according to Schneider. Use it to find your way through mine fields safely and locate mines you might otherwise trigger.
What is the Oxygen Tank for?
The Oxygen Tank is required for the underwater passage connecting Buildings #2 and #3. Jennifer will tell you to "LOOK FOR THE OXYGEN TANK OVER BEYOND THE DOOR." Without it, you cannot traverse the long underwater lock section.
How does password import work?
Use the Import Password field at the top of the Generator page. Enter your 24-character password (format: XXXX-XXXX-XXXX-XXXX-XXXX-XXXX) and click Import. The system will decode it and restore all your equipment, ranks, prisoners rescued, and other settings to continue your playthrough.
What is VermonCaTaffy?
VermonCaTaffy is a secret item (a cat toy) that has no gameplay function but serves as an easter egg in the password system. The name is a reference to Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi. It's purely for fun and doesn't affect your game progress.
