Biggest Reasons Why Metal Gear Solid’s Big Boss Is Such A Great Protagonist

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Summary

  • Speaks only when needed – Boss’ rare lines feel profound and deepen his mystery.
  • Master of CQC – Boss outmaneuvers foes with precision, yet he’s human and not flawless.
  • Tragic arc of a hopeful hero; iconic voice and surprising playful side.

In the initial Metal Gear game, a figure known as Big Boss makes an appearance, but he isn’t the central character you control. That role is taken up by Solid Snake. However, in the third main entry of the series, Snake Eater, Big Boss steps into the spotlight for the first time as a playable character. Because Solid Snake was the focus for the first two games, fans quickly developed an affection for Big Boss when he took center stage.

Is it his captivating history, his irresistible charm, or perhaps his passion for weapons and machinery that draws us in? Whatever it is, there’s much to appreciate about the legendary character who headlines Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater. With the eagerly awaited remake of this timeless game now available, it feels like the ideal moment to contemplate the elements that make Big Boss a truly iconic hero, and understand why so many fans of the franchise hold him in such high esteem.

His Words Have Meaning

Big Boss Won’t Speak Unless Absolutely Necessary, Giving Him A Secretive Persona

In the world of video games, it can become tiresome if the main character talks excessively. Unlike other protagonists who chat non-stop, Big Boss rarely speaks, which adds an air of mystery that keeps fans intrigued about his personality and thoughts. However, when Big Boss does speak, his words carry great significance and depth.

For instance, instead of boasting about his revolvers and shooting skills when encountering Big Boss, Ocelot often flaunts this information. However, Big Boss rarely responds unless he can offer constructive criticism regarding the battle’s mistakes. Interestingly, Big Boss sometimes echoes others’ words to encourage them to explain their intentions more thoroughly, a tactic learned from his military training.

He’s A Master At CQC

Not Many People Can Match Big Boss In Close Combat

It’s typical for a video game hero to begin their tale as green and inexperienced, but that definitely doesn’t hold true for Big Boss. Known as a skilled warrior on the battlefield, Big Boss is well-versed in handling himself during combat, particularly in Close Quarters Combat (CQC). It’s always thrilling to watch Big Boss outsmart his adversaries with clever maneuvers and unexpected tactics.

In simpler terms, a memorable instance is found in Metal Gear Solid 3 where Big Boss outsmarts Ocelot early on. At first, Ocelot boasts about his toughness, but when his gun malfunctions, Big Boss seizes the moment to capture him effortlessly. Essentially, it’s cool to witness the main character executing perfect takedowns on opponents, demonstrating exceptional skill and precision without needing extensive training from within the game itself.

His Iconic Voice

David Hayter Pulls Off An Excellent Performance As a Hardened But Friendly Big Boss

Every time a fresh Metal Gear project drops, us gamers can’t help but wonder if good ol’ David Hayter will be lending his legendary voice to Big Boss or Snake again. His iconic delivery has definitely left an indelible mark, especially when it comes to Big Boss – a character he first voiced back in Metal Gear Solid 3, and later in Metal Gear Solid: Delta. The gravelly depth of Hayter’s voice fits perfectly with a battle-hardened soldier like Big Boss, but he also has this intriguing quality that he can bring out, which really captures the character’s playful essence.

Listening to his voice alone, players can quickly discern that Big Boss is a figure you wouldn’t want to cross paths with. It takes exceptional voice actors to communicate so much about a character through just a few words. This is one reason why fans are captivated by the character, but also why numerous lines of Big Boss have become well-known quotes in popular culture; it’s entertaining to attempt mimicking the individual who first spoke them.

He’s Not Afraid To Show His Goofy Side

The Sharp, Stoic Soldier Isn’t Against Having Fun Now And Again

In most games where the main character is as stern and serious as Big Boss, they would usually steer clear of comedic or absurd situations to preserve his serious demeanor. However, unlike many other Kojima games, this isn’t a concern in Metal Gear Solid 3. Big Boss manages to maintain his cool, calm, and serious persona while occasionally allowing himself some light-hearted moments.

As a die-hard gamer, I can’t help but chuckle when I don my reptilian disguise or munch on something suspiciously toxic, just to remark about its horrid taste. This character never fails to keep things lively, even during the game’s tense moments, which is one of the many reasons he has earned such a devoted fanbase.

In Metal Gear Solid 3, the narrative can get quite grim, so it’s refreshing to have some comic relief around. It definitely makes the journey more enjoyable.

He’s Strong, But He’s Not Perfect

Which Helps To Humanize Him As A Character

At the outset of Metal Gear Solid 3, when Big Boss parachutes into the jungle from a plane, it’s natural to think that he is an unparalleled elite soldier, practically perfect. But this assumption doesn’t last long, as he encounters The Boss, who single-handedly overpowers him in close combat after issuing a challenge on the bridge.

The intricate bond between Big Boss and his mentor underscores the fact that though he’s an exceptionally powerful and intelligent soldier, there’s much room for growth. This tactful portrayal makes him seem more empathetic and understandable to the player, as it would be challenging to forge a connection if he were merely an indestructible super-soldier without any noticeable weaknesses. By placing a significant objective before him that drives his self-improvement, Big Boss emerges as a character who transcends the stereotypes commonly associated with video game figures.

He Has A Fascinating Backstory

A Hero Turned Villain Who Had Big Dreams Of How The World Should Be

Although Big Boss was the main character in the third game of the Metal Gear series, long-time fans had already met him before. In fact, Big Boss first appeared in the original Metal Gear game, but as a villain. Since Metal Gear Solid 3 is set before these events, it helped keep the character significant within the overall narrative for many years. Fans were eager to discover more about his background and ultimate goals.

The game “Metal Gear Solid 3” highlighted the precarious nature of international partnerships on a global scale, demonstrating how these connections influenced Big Boss’s worldview as a soldier. His ultimate downfall would be depicted in “Peace Walker” and “Metal Gear Solid 5: The Phantom Pain,” eventually leading to his portrayal as an antagonist in the initial “Metal Gear.” In essence, the “Metal Gear Solid” series serves as a narrative about Big Boss, a complex character whose aspirations were hopeful yet ended up labeling him as a villain at the conclusion of his long and challenging voyage.

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2025-08-29 14:05