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KONAMI UNVEILS Q&A SESSION WITH HIDEO KOJIMA

AND NEW METAL GEAR SOLID®: PEACE WALKER SCREENSHOTS

Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc. today revealed a Q&A session with legendary video game creator and head of Kojima Productions, Hideo Kojima, and new screenshots from the highly anticipated title coming to the PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system in 2010, Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker. This latest PSP installment picks up where Metal Gear Solid®3 for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system leaves off as players take control of the famed Naked Snake. Taking place in 1974, Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker features original game design, story and scenario by Hideo Kojima. The game takes the series in an exciting new direction with its incredible visuals and its unique new game system designed specifically with the PSP in mind.

HIDEO KOJIMA – Q/A

1) I bet many users had expected the next MGS5 announcement. When did you start this project?

I actually had the plan for this project in mind while working on MPO. 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 SOLID” has not ended, and the “METAL GEAR SAGA” continues.

2) You have been telling for many years that your ultimate theme is “Anti-war and Anti-nuclear weapon”. Does this theme continue in this title?

Absolutely. The METAL GEAR SOLID 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.

3) I understand that it is a tactical espionage action game but could you provide some explanation for bringing this title to the PSP platform? I saw 4 Snakes in the trailer presented at E3, is this COOP?

The game will be stealth-action based. 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!

4) “You’re known for boot camps and on site checks. This time which part would you like to stress about the reality in terms of game quality?

We conduct research in many ways and then begin game production. 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.

5) Regarding the KJP countdown teaser site, there were several signs as a message, could you explain what this message is all about?

–

5=it is an MGS5 class game

S=Snake

巳＝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. “巳” 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 “日” 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. So everyone, how did you like it? Were your predictions on the mark?

Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker is being developed exclusively for the PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system and is scheduled to launch in 2010.

Konami unveiled today, a new map, character and reward mode, all now available for METAL GEAR ONLINE, the ultimate squad-based, tactical-espionage action title based on the popular METAL GEAR SOLID franchise. The latest content will be available to players who have purchased the SCENE Expansion Pack.

Best suited for medium-to long-range combat, the new map — Icebound Inferno – will be recognized by fans of the franchise as the famed “Shadow Moses” map from the first METAL GEAR SOLID game. The map features an Arctic Island that consists of a large snowfield with buildings of varying heights.

In addition, the download allows players to use Old Snake as a unique character and the Octo-cam suit as a weapon. In a twist, Old Snake will not become completely invisible when using the suit, but will automatically blend with the environment. The latest download will also include an Auto Matching Reward mode in which the winner of the match wins more reward points than normal. When playing an individual match in this mode, only the winner receives the reward points while in a team match, the team member ranked first will win the reward points.

Metal Gear Online is the online multi-player experience that is included free in the retail version of METAL GEAR SOLID 4 GUNS OF THE PATRIOTS, developed exclusively for the PS3 computer entertainment system. Three expansion packs – GENE, MEME and SCENE – are currently available for purchase via METAL GEAR ONLINE’s in-game shop and Konami’s shop (https://mykonami.net/mgo/). In addition to traditional methods of payment for purchase, the PlayStation® Network Wallet prepay system which is now available as a form of payment.

Konami unveiled today, new character skills and new top ranking emblems for the upcoming SCENE Expansion, the latest Metal Gear Online expansion pack for the ultimate squad-based, tactical shooter based on the popular Metal Gear Solid franchise. Available on March 17th, 2009, SCENE Expansion will contain a vast amount of content that is sure to satisfy and excite Metal Gear Online players – including special characters, maps, skills, gear, the ability to play as a customizable character, and more. SCENE Expansion can be purchased separately for $9.99 and as a bundle with the second expansion MEME, for $14.99. Additionally, consumers will be able to purchase all three expansions – GENE, MEME and SCENE – in a one of-a-kind bundle for $17.99. All three options are available via Metal Gear Online’s in-game shop and Konami’s shop (https://mykonami.net/mgo/). Players can also purchase all Metal Gear Online content through PayPal, or through the upcoming PlayStation Network Wallet payment system, which will be available soon.

· 3 New Skills
o CQC (Close Quarters Combat) EX – The player must have the CQC Mastery Lv3 equipped and execute 200CQC maneuvers in order to earn this skill. Once the skill is earned, whenever a CQC attack is attempted on your character, a counter move will automatically be executed.

o Toughness – The player will need to have either a knockback, knockdown or blow away type attack executed on them 100 times in order to earn this skill. Once earned, your character will be able to endure knockdown attacks and recover time will be decreased.

o Charm – To earn this skill, which is similar to Mei-Ling’s, your character must be distracted by a magazine 100 times. Once earned, holding the salute pose has the same effects as a magazine. The character salute motion also changes to three different animations.
· New Top Elite Emblems
o A number of New Top Elite emblems will be made available. Earn the emblems and will receive a free in-game t-shirt. Here are two to check out!

o Fighting Fish – Unlock by playing a series of Deathmatches.

o Arctic Skua – Unlock by playing through a series of Solo Capture missions.

Metal Gear Online is the online multi-player player experience that is included free in the retail version of Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots, developed exclusively for the PS3

Visit the PlayStation Store and Get a Sneak Peak of the highly anticipated SCENE Expansion

Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc. today unveiled a new trailer showcasing the first game footage from SCENE Expansion, the latest Metal Gear Online expansion pack for the ultimate squad based, tactical shooter based on the Metal Gear Solid Universe. Available in March, SCENE is the third Metal Gear Online expansion pack and features a vast amount of new content – including new maps, special characters, new gear and more. In order to make SCENE as accessible as possible, players, for the first time ever, can now use PayPal along with the PlayStation® Network Wallet prepay system as a form of payment. Additionally, players who want to be the first to get their hands on the latest expansion for the popular, multiplayer shooter hit, can pre-order SCENE via MGOnline’s in-game shop and Konami’s shop (https://my.konami.net/mgo/). All Metal Gear fans who pre-order SCENE will receive the hilarious classic “cardboard man” head gear as a special free gift. Players will be able to pre-order SCENE one week before launch.

To view the new trailer, you can visit the PlayStation 3’s embedded PlayStation® Store to download and view the high quality version, or view it streaming right now from the Videos section of the MGS4/MGO page on konami.com at: http://www.konami.com/mgs4

more details on the expansion pack:
· 3 New Maps
o Outer Outlet – An Industrial Wasteland, made up of buildings and underground/above ground areas. Suitable for medium to long range attacks.
o Hazard House – An enormous three story mansion. Suitable for close to medium range combat.
o Ravaged Riverfront – Clock Tower, made up of underground, above ground, and under water areas. Suitable for medium to long range combat.

· 2 new special characters
o Raiden and Vamp – two highly anticipated characters with extraordinary physical abilities and overwhelming offensive power.

Metal Gear Online is the online multi-player experience that is included free in the retail version of Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots, developed exclusively for the PS3 computer entertainment system.

Pre-Order Metal Gear Online SCENE Expansion to Receive the Special “Cardboard Man” Head Gear

Konami today announced SCENE Expansion, the latest Metal Gear Online expansion pack for the ultimate squad based, tactical shooter based on the Metal Gear Solid Universe. Available in March, SCENE is the third Metal Gear Online expansion pack and features a vast amount of new content – including new maps, special characters, new gear and more. In order to make SCENE as accessible as possible, players, for the first time ever, can now use PayPal along with the PlayStation® Network Wallet prepay system as a form of payment. Additionally, players who want to be the first to get their hands on the latest expansion for the popular, multiplayer shooter hit, can pre-order SCENE via MGOnline’s in-game shop and Konami’s shop (https://mykonami.net/mgo/). All Metal Gear fans who pre-order SCENE will receive the hilarious classic “cardboard man” head gear as a special free gift. Players will be able to pre-order SCENE one week before launch.

Additionally, on February 26, Konami will debut an all-new trailer on the PlayStation® Store that will offer fans a sneak peak of this highly anticipated expansion.

Please find below further details on some of the new content in the expansion pack:

· 3 New Maps
o Outer Outlet – An Industrial Wasteland, made up of buildings and underground/above ground areas. Suitable for medium to long range attacks.
o Hazard House – An enormous three story mansion. Suitable for close to medium range combat.
o Ravaged Riverfront – Clock Tower, made up of underground, above ground, and under water areas. Suitable for medium to long range combat.

· 2 new special characters
o Raiden and Vamp – two highly anticipated characters with extraordinary physical abilities and overwhelming offensive power.

Metal Gear Online is the online multi-player experience that is included free in the retail version of Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots, developed exclusively for the PS3 computer entertainment system.