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Konami’s stealth-action franchise is one of gaming’s greatest – and 2015 marks the biggest entry in the series yet. MCV gears up with the latest MGS merchandise
There are few games franchises as iconic as Metal Gear Solid.
Whether it’s the blaring red exclamation mark of alerted enemies, the man-sized cardboard box that hero Snake uses to hide or the green tinge of the Codec communication screen, elements of Konami’s stealth series have woven themselves into the very language of the games industry for almost three decades.
Each Metal Gear Solid title takes place during a different time period – whether it’s the ‘60s Cold War setting of MGS3, the mid-2000s storyline of MGS1, 2 and 4, or, now, the 1980s-inspired world of Metal Gear Solid V. This has allowed Konami and its merchandising partners to create a wide range of products influenced by the differing styles of each decade.
Clothing has proven to be one of the most successful categories for us as we’ve developed something for all tastes,” says Sandra Arcan, senior manager for licensing and merchandising EMEA at Konami. One thing that has evolved is the extent to which these apparel items are fully designed – not so long ago, you’d probably mostly find packshot art and some fairly basic iconography on clothing. These days, manufacturers are hiring designers with a fashion background, as well as models and photographers, to create a look which is that much more polished.
Another big category is collectible figurines – these ranges have always been incredibly popular as core fans always want to add to their collection of uber-cool figures.”
With MGSV proclaimed as the last entry in the series from franchise creator Hideo Kojima, fans are sure to be looking for merchandise mementos to celebrate their time with one of gaming’s most unforgettable brands.
Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain Official Strategy Guide
Metal Gear Solid V is touted as the biggest entry yet in the already sizable series. To help players navigate the game’s expansive open world, this guide features comprehensive advice on how to achieve 100 per cent completion. Included is a map-based walkthrough with easy-to-follow annotated screenshots, plus trophy guides and tips on all of MGSV’s weapons and items. The collectable edition of the guide features a hardcover and exclusive lithograph by Yoji Shinkawa, plus additional content such as an art gallery.
SRP: 14.99 (Standard), 19.99 (Collector’s Edition)
Manufacturer: Piggyback
Distributor: Piggyback
Contact: 020 7313 9232
Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom PainPlay Arts Kai – Ocelot
Long-time series villain Revolver Ocelot is a firm fan favourite character. This detailed model recreates Ocelot’s spaghetti western style, including two handguns (each of a different calibre) and cowboy boots with spurs. It’s constructed with special soft material in order to minimise interference with articulation. The set also includes alternative hand pieces and other accessories such as sunglasses, letting players pose and dress Ocelot as they desire.
SRP: 69.99
Manufacturer: Play Arts Kai
Distributor: Square Enix
Contact: 020 8636 3000
Metal Gear Solid Shot Glasses– Set of Three
These glasses boast the MSG, Foxhound and MGS Anniversary logos on their fronts, with the iconic exclamation mark on the bottom.
SRP: 12.99
Manufacturer: Gaya Entertainment
Distributor: Gaming Merchandise UK
Contact: hello@gamingmerchandiseuk.com
Metal Gear Solid: Deluxe Edition
This oversized collection brings together all 25 issues of the tie-in Metal Gear Solid comic from Ashley Wood and Rufus Dayglo.
SRP: 55.99
Manufacturer: IDW Publishing
Distributor: Diamond Comic Distributors UK
Contact: 01928 531 760
Desert Camo Berlin Boombox
The cardboard box takes on a new lease of life in this speaker, which features a 3.5mm audio jack and up to 200 hours of battery life.
SRP: 79.99
Manufacturer: Berlin Boombox
Distributor: Berlin Boombox
Contact: wholesale@berlinboombox.com
DD84 Varsity Jacket
Inspired by the 1984 setting of MGSV, this jacket also features the logo of in-game military firm Diamond Dogs.
SRP: 55
Manufacturer: Insert Coin Clothing
Distributor: Insert Coin Clothing
Contact: 01702 521 850
Metal Gear Solid V: Ground Zeroes Model Figure Kit
Metal Gear fanatics can recreate their own sneaking missions in 1:35 scale with this 70-piece model set.
SRP: 19.99
Manufacturer: Kotobukiya
Distributor: Degica UK
Contact: +33 1 55 17 16 56
Metal Gear Solid V FOX Mug
Players can take a break from the stress of sneaking with a cup of Liquid Snake in this mug emblazoned with the FOX unit logo.
SRP: 11.99
Manufacturer: Gaya Entertainment
Distributor: Gaming Merchand
