Kojima reveals codes behind the Metal Gear teaser, what to expect from Peace Walker

Konami has sent over a Q&A session with Hideo Kojima regarding Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker for PSP.

The game picks up where MGS3 left off with Naked Snake in 1974. It will feature a growth mechanism, so that your character can evolve, and Koija says he had plans for this project while working on MPO.

"I actually had the plan for this project in mind while working on MPO," he said. "Back then, I intended to place the project in the hands of the next generation of creators at Kojima Productions. However, in the end, I felt that it was still a little too early to leave it completely in their hands, so I decided to take the reins.

"This game is an MGS5-class game. I am supervising, designing, producing, directing, and editing this title together with the MGS4 team. Therefore in that sense, "Metal Gear Soild" has not ended, and the "Metal Gear Saga" continues.

"In regards to the quality of the game, the main staff of MGS4 are producing it. They are aiming for PS3 quality because they were creating MGS4 on the PS3 not too long ago. In reality it is hard to maintain the same quality as the PS3 but we strive for it and we are expressing this in ways only we can express it in."

Read the rest through the jump, and find out what his thinking was regarding those wonderful numerical teasers on the countdown site.

New screens for the game can be found over on GamesWire.

Since the "Anti-war and Anti-nuclear weapon" theme has always been featured in the MGS series, it will continue in Peace Walker as well, says Kojima.

"The MGS series has always featured "Anti-war" and "Anti-nuke" themes, this title is no exception. In the event of an attack from a neighboring country, I believe that finding a solution through diplomacy is ideal. However, the fact is that even peaceful countries with no intention of retaliating still maintain armies just for the sake of deterrence.

"I am sure there are varied opinions regarding this subject, but I believe that it is our generation's role to "create peace through discussion." What makes things complicated is that the youth of today have been born into a world where the current situation is the norm, so it's difficult to convey this message. That is why my hope is to have players ponder and learn about why there are people who advocate the "need for armies, military power, and nuclear weapons" so that they may realize "why things turned out the way that they did" while they play this game."

While stealth action-based, it will include tactical espionage and include features that could "only be utilized" through PSP.

"I can't reveal too many details yet, but we are implementing features that can only be realized on the PSP platform that I believe everyone can look forward to. The game will be a little different from the METAL GEAR that players have come to know. However, the story can be replayed numerous times and the game is full of challenges to complete, so I feel that this title will really satisfy players with its long-lasting play time. Just as an example, do you recall the cardboard box at the end of the Peace Walker trailer? In addition to that two-man box, we are preparing a variety of other different cardboard boxes this time around.

"To give a little more insight into the game, you can, how shall I say... customize Snake according to your preferences and determine what kind of soldier you will use prior to embarking on your mission. For example there's heavy gear configurations that make a lot of noise, but that allow you to equip numerous weapons. Or, there are other configurations that won't allow you to carry many weapons, but will allow you to be light on your feet. We will be preparing a variety of other types as well. Being able to make decisions and plot a strategy will be one of the really enjoyable features of this title.

"We are also working on a "growth feature" as well, where your character evolves. It will be a new type of system, so I hope everyone will look forward to it."

Regarding the KJP countdown teaser site, there were several signs as a message, and each symbol or number meant something different to the creator - which makes us think he should crack codes for the government.

• 5 = it is an MGS5 class game
• S = Snake
• ? = snake in Kanji
• E = E3
• R = Raiden
• 3 = 3 from 360 and E3
• 6 = 6 from 360
• P and S = PSP and adding 3 makes it PS3

"Aside from the Snake and Raiden visuals, we featured a total of 10 "symbols" and when all of these are rearranged, they form connections to the announcements that we made at E3.

"The first symbols that appeared were the number "5" and the letter "S" for Snake that represented PW which, to me, is a "5" class title. "?" not only hints at the lowercase lettering of "E" for E3, but it is the kanji for the word "snake." Also, the symbol that appeared at the very end is the kanji "?" and represents a sunny background and the sunrise that links to Rising.

"The "RISING" of "METAL GEAR SOLID RISING" implies "the sun rising," "the sun shining," and "the sun shining on Raiden" that was revealed in the visuals on the HP. In addition, "RISING" also represents how "METAL GEAR SOLID" will be taking the next step up.

"Going back to the symbols found on the HP, they also link to "the day of 360" and also to each of the titles that we announced at E3. When each of the symbols are rearranged, I think you'll be able to recognize E3, PSP, PS3, 360 and others."

There ya have it.