Is Metal Gear Rising Canon: A Philosophical Inquiry into Cyborg Ninjas and Political Intrigue

The question of whether Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance is canon within the Metal Gear universe has sparked debates among fans, theorists, and even casual observers of the franchise. While the game itself is a spin-off developed by PlatinumGames, its connection to the broader Metal Gear timeline raises intriguing questions about narrative continuity, thematic resonance, and the nature of canon itself. Let’s dive into this labyrinth of cyborgs, politics, and philosophical musings.

1. The Canon Conundrum: What Defines Canon?

Canon, in the context of storytelling, refers to the official continuity of a narrative universe. For Metal Gear Rising, the debate hinges on its relationship to Hideo Kojima’s original Metal Gear Solid series. While Kojima Productions supervised the project, the game’s tone and gameplay diverge significantly from the stealth-focused mainline entries. This divergence has led some to question its place in the canon.

However, canon is not always a rigid construct. It can evolve, expand, or even fracture into alternate timelines. Metal Gear Rising could be seen as an extension of the Metal Gear universe, exploring themes and characters in a way that complements the main series without directly contradicting it.

2. Raiden’s Evolution: From Side Character to Protagonist

Raiden, the protagonist of Metal Gear Rising, first appeared in Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty as a rookie soldier thrust into a world of espionage and deception. By the time of Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots, he had transformed into a cybernetically enhanced ninja, grappling with his humanity and the ethics of warfare.

Metal Gear Rising picks up after the events of MGS4, delving deeper into Raiden’s psyche as he battles private military companies (PMCs) and confronts his own violent tendencies. This continuity suggests that the game is indeed part of the Metal Gear canon, as it builds on established lore and character development.

3. Thematic Continuity: War, Ethics, and Cyborgs

One of the hallmarks of the Metal Gear series is its exploration of complex themes such as the cost of war, the ethics of technology, and the nature of free will. Metal Gear Rising continues this tradition, albeit with a more action-oriented approach. The game’s villains, including the charismatic Senator Armstrong, embody the series’ critique of militarism and political corruption.

The game also introduces new philosophical questions, such as the morality of using child soldiers and the commodification of human bodies through cybernetic enhancements. These themes align with the broader Metal Gear narrative, further supporting the argument for its canonicity.

4. Gameplay Divergence: A Different Beast

One of the main points of contention is Metal Gear Rising’s gameplay. Unlike the stealth-focused mainline games, Revengeance is a fast-paced hack-and-slash title, emphasizing combat and spectacle over subtlety. This shift has led some fans to view it as a standalone experience rather than a canonical entry.

However, gameplay mechanics do not necessarily determine canonicity. Many franchises have spin-offs with different gameplay styles that are still considered part of the official timeline. For example, Final Fantasy Tactics is a turn-based strategy game, yet it is firmly rooted in the Final Fantasy universe.

5. Kojima’s Influence: A Stamp of Approval?

Hideo Kojima, the creator of the Metal Gear series, served as a producer for Metal Gear Rising. While he was not directly involved in its development, his oversight suggests that the game was intended to be part of the broader Metal Gear narrative. Kojima’s involvement lends credibility to the idea that Revengeance is canon, even if it diverges from his usual style.

6. Fan Reception: A Divided Community

The Metal Gear fanbase is notoriously passionate, and opinions on Metal Gear Rising’s canonicity are split. Some fans embrace it as a bold and innovative addition to the series, while others dismiss it as a non-canonical experiment. This divide highlights the subjective nature of canon and the challenges of satisfying a diverse audience.

7. The Future of Metal Gear Rising in the Canon

With the Metal Gear franchise continuing to evolve, the status of Metal Gear Rising may become clearer in future installments. If Raiden’s story is referenced or expanded upon in upcoming games, it would solidify Revengeance’s place in the canon. Until then, the debate remains open to interpretation.

FAQs

Q: Is Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance considered canon?
A: While not officially confirmed, the game’s narrative continuity and thematic alignment with the Metal Gear series suggest it is part of the canon.

Q: How does Metal Gear Rising connect to the mainline games?
A: The game takes place after Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots and follows Raiden’s journey as a cyborg ninja fighting against PMCs.

Q: Why do some fans consider Metal Gear Rising non-canon?
A: The game’s shift to hack-and-slash gameplay and its more over-the-top tone have led some to view it as a spin-off rather than a canonical entry.

Q: Will Metal Gear Rising be referenced in future Metal Gear games?
A: This remains uncertain, but any future references to Raiden’s story in Revengeance would strengthen its canonicity.

Q: Does Hideo Kojima consider Metal Gear Rising canon?
A: Kojima has not explicitly stated his position, but his involvement as a producer suggests he views it as part of the Metal Gear universe.