20 Mind-Blowing Things You Didn't Know About Metal Gear Solid 2
4. A Multiplayer Mode Was Scrapped During Development
Though more recent Metal Gear Solid games have featured online multiplayer modes, back in the PS2 era more expansive console multiplayer was still in its infancy.
But Kojima originally planned to have Metal Gear Solid 2 feature a local two-player versus mode, achieved through either split-screen on a single console or two consoles via system link.
The modes would've included a straight-up battle between players and a stealth-based hide and seek game, the latter feeling like an especially inspired fit for the franchise.
For whatever reason, most likely either technical limitations or time constraints, it never came to fruition, despite Konami's "grand game plan" document considering it "essential" for the game.