Metal Gear Solid: Every Snake Ranked

The bait-and-switch Kojima did to players in Metal Gear Solid V: Phantom Pain came as a shock, but not surprising given his track record with the second and third entry. Calling Venom Snake the black sheep of the saga is an understatement, and thematically fits within the scope of the series as well: an imitation of Big Boss that has no say in his existence used as a prop.

Like Venom, the player becomes an observer through this stoic protagonist and forced into a role outside of their free will, and autonomy dismembered.

What makes Venom Snake unique is how observant he is. He rarely speaks his thoughts aloud and internalizes pain; a victim of war with physical reminders of the loss of his comrades and betrayal of Big Boss. Venom has a deep understanding of conflict and emotional trauma. After defeating XOF and getting revenge, the pain and trauma lingers and begs the question: what next? What is there to live for?

Without saying much, Venom is a sympathetic character in constant reflection of the absurdity of war. He understands war mutes us and creates a pain no language can articulate. The most disquieting moments are the ones in between when developing camaraderie and attachment; a reminder that this, too, will die one day.