Not playing Metal Gear Solid 2 is like missing the hand you write with- you need to play this game to be complete.
Just as a starting note, I absolutely love this game. I've played it through 4 times, and it still intrigues me. Metal Gear Solid 2: SoL is the story of Solid Snake, a spy who has destroyed many giant mech robots codenamed "Metal Gear". The world always seems to come up with some new Metal Gear for him to destroy. In Metal Gear Solid it was Metal Gear Rex, and this time, it's Metal Gear Ray. Possibly one of the most destructive weapons ever built.
So, along to summing up the gameplay. What else can I say except for "perfect". Controls are smooth, and easy to learn for newbie players. Enemies are smart, depending on the difficulty setting that you are on. In extreme mode, enemies are perhaps a bit TOO smart, but that's alright, as you probably want a challenge if you are a hardcore gamer. As said before, the story is intriguing, and will keep you wanting to play. It's a disappointment to see the game end, just because its so much damn fun. You will easily want to start a new game and go through the story over and over again.
The graphics, even for 2006, still remain top-notch. Smooth graphics are definitely not eye-burning, and the HUD works well. Game graphics and cutscene graphics do not differ much, and this is awesome because the graphics in the cutscenes are beautiful. Nothing bad here. Konami truly outdid themselves and used the power of the Playstation 2 to their advantage, as this IS one of the best games ever made.
Konami also put tons of effort into the game's sounds. SoL has one of the most memorable game themes ever made, composed by none other than Harry Gregson-Williams, who has also done music for movies like The Rock and Armageddon. All the other different sound effects in the game are also well done. Hats off to Konami on the MGS2 sound.
Now, with all these things in mind, what other game is this perfect that you are going to find for so cheap? Walk into an EB Games and you will find this game for $9 or even cheaper. That's in Canada, so the majority of American gamers should find it for about 3 bucks or even less than that I'm supposing. Your wallet will still be full after purchasing this game, and copies are in extreme amounts so go and buy one, or two! Be generous and give some free copies to your friends that don't have this game already!
Last, but certainly not least, time to give my tilt on this amazing game. 10/10. I don't need to say any more, or any less. This game is perfect, in each and every way. So, if you are looking for a game with shooting, strategy, interesting characters and storylines, great graphics, great gameplay, awesome music and sound effects, and for a great price, look no further. Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty is the game you should choose.