Metal Gear Solid 3 is the perfect sequel to a perfect series. It just does everything right.
Graphics: Superb graphics and some of the best seen on the PS2. With the exception of God of War, this is one of the nicest looking games on the PS2. Everything from the environments to the characters are fantastic. The forest looks and functions completely life-like. If you go into grass, it folds down. When you move, the grass goes back up. The rivers flow in one direction and spalsh when you enter it. The water also slashes when being shot. Then there's the special effects, which are also outstanding. Fire, being the main part of one boss, are amazing for a PS2. Graphics are a perfect 10.
Sound: The sound is exceptional. Every bullet and tree sound exactly as they would in the forest. Then there's the soundtrack. It's a masterpiece and one of the best on any game ever created. The theme song is my personal favorite and is even better than modern-day music. Sound is another perfect 10.
Gameplay: Here's the most important part. Gameplay. This is one of the most advanced systems in any FPS i've ever played. There's a camouflage mode which, depending on what you wear, helps you blend in with your surroundings. All weapons are exceptional and have their advantages and disadvantages. THere's no "cheap weapon". For example, a machine gun can carry over 500 bullets, but it frequently onverheats. The gamesply feels like real life. Your food comes from the animals you kill in the forest. THere's also a clever healing system. If you're shot, you have to apply disinfectant and bandages to your wound. It all sounds complicated, but the mues flow smoothly and make things easy. The only reason this category isn't perfect is becuase of the learining curve. It takes awhile to really figure out how to use camouflage, food, and the healing system accurately. There's also the stamina bar verse the health bar, and becuase it's not explained, it can take some time to figure out which is which and what they do.
Of course, there's also the story. This is the best story in any game i've ever played (other than the other 2 in the series :) ). It definitely beats God of War, and has some of the most loveable characters. You may even find yourself crying at the end. Not only becuase of the story, but becuase the story is over. Value: You can get this game for $20-$40, but I'd gladly pay $60 or even $70 for this game if i needed to.
Overall: This is an amazing game that not only fans of the series should pick up, but anyone with an interest in stealth, action, an FPS, or someone with a PS2. It should not be missed by anyone.