Hey gamers! Today, we're diving deep into the world of Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty, focusing on two cool aspects: the Snake Tales missions and the ever-reliable M9 pistol. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or a newbie sneaking into Shadow Moses for the first time, this guide will give you all the intel you need.

Understanding Snake Tales

So, what exactly are Snake Tales? These are a set of non-canonical missions included in Metal Gear Solid 2: Substance. Think of them as alternate reality scenarios where Solid Snake finds himself in situations that are... well, let's just say they're not part of the main storyline. They're like fun little side quests that let you mess around with the game's mechanics and explore different possibilities.

Why Play Snake Tales?

• New Challenges: Each Snake Tale presents unique objectives and challenges that differ from the main game. You'll need to adapt your strategies and think outside the box to succeed.
• Story Twists: Don't expect a serious, Kojima-esque narrative here. These tales are often quirky and humorous, offering a lighthearted break from the intense storyline of the main game. Expect the unexpected!
• Gameplay Variety: Snake Tales encourage you to experiment with different playstyles. You might find yourself relying more on stealth, engaging in more direct combat, or using specific weapons to overcome obstacles.
• Extended Playtime: For completionists, Snake Tales add significant playtime to Metal Gear Solid 2. They're perfect for when you've finished the main game and are looking for more content to sink your teeth into.

Missions Overview

Let's take a quick look at some of the Snake Tales missions you can expect to encounter:

• Intruder 1: Snake infiltrates the Big Shell to rescue Colonel Campbell.
• Intruder 2: Snake is tasked with eliminating all the soldiers present in the Big Shell.
• Solidus' Revenge: Snake needs to eliminate Solidus, who is trying to control Arsenal Gear. This tale is the most difficult of them all.
• A Wrongdoing: Snake has to help Emma Emmerich escape from the Big Shell.
• Dead Man Whispers: Snake must uncover a series of murders that are happening inside the Big Shell.

Each of these tales offers a unique spin on the Metal Gear Solid 2 experience, putting Snake in bizarre situations that challenge even the most skilled players. It’s a great way to test your skills and have some fun with the game's mechanics without the pressure of the main storyline. What makes these missions interesting is that you get to see a different side of Snake as he deals with unconventional challenges, often with a touch of humor that contrasts sharply with the main game's serious tone.

Mastering the M9 Pistol

Now, let's talk about the M9 pistol, a crucial tool in Snake's arsenal. This weapon isn't about dealing massive damage; it's all about stealth and non-lethal takedowns. If you're aiming for a stealthy, no-kills playthrough, the M9 is your best friend. Let's get into the nitty-gritty of how to use it effectively.

Why the M9 is Essential

The M9 is a non-lethal weapon that fires tranquilizer darts. Here's why it's so important:

• Stealth Gameplay: The M9 allows you to neutralize enemies without killing them, which is crucial for maintaining a low profile. A sleeping guard is much easier to deal with than a dead one.
• Avoiding Alerts: Killing enemies often leads to alerts and reinforcements. Using the M9 helps you avoid these situations, making it easier to sneak through areas undetected.
• Boss Battles: While not always the primary weapon, the M9 can be useful in certain boss battles for stunning enemies or creating openings for attack.
• Moral Choice: For players who prefer a pacifist approach, the M9 allows you to complete the game without taking lives, adding an extra layer of challenge and satisfaction.

How to Use the M9 Effectively

Using the M9 effectively requires a bit of skill and understanding of its mechanics. Here are some tips to help you master this weapon:

• Aim Carefully: The M9 has a limited range, and the darts travel relatively slowly. Take your time to aim carefully, especially at long distances. Headshots are the most effective for quick takedowns.
• Consider Distance: The farther away you are, the more the dart will drop. Compensate for this by aiming slightly higher than your target. Practice makes perfect!
• Use Stealth: The M9 is best used from a concealed position. Hide in the shadows, behind cover, or use distractions to get a clear shot without being detected.
• Follow-Up Shots: Sometimes, one dart isn't enough to knock out an enemy, especially if they're alert or have high stamina. Be prepared to follow up with additional shots if necessary.
• Conserve Ammo: While M9 ammo is relatively common, it's still important to conserve it. Avoid wasting shots and prioritize targets that pose the greatest threat.
• Be Patient: Unlike lethal weapons, the M9 doesn't provide instant results. It takes a few seconds for the tranquilizer to take effect, so be patient and wait for the enemy to fall asleep before moving in.

Advanced Techniques

Ready to take your M9 skills to the next level? Here are some advanced techniques to help you become a true M9 master:

• Quick Switching: Learn to quickly switch between the M9 and other weapons. This allows you to adapt to different situations and take advantage of opportunities as they arise.
• Corner Shots: Use corners to your advantage by peeking out and firing a quick shot before ducking back into cover. This minimizes your exposure to enemy fire.
• Distraction Tactics: Use decoys or other distractions to lure enemies into vulnerable positions, making them easier targets for your M9.
• Choke Points: Position yourself at choke points, such as doorways or narrow corridors, to maximize your chances of hitting enemies with the M9.
• Enemy Patterns: Study enemy patrol patterns to predict their movements and anticipate when they'll be in a good position for a tranquilizer dart.

M9 in Snake Tales

In the Snake Tales missions, the M9 remains just as valuable. Given the often unconventional and challenging scenarios, the ability to neutralize enemies non-lethally can be a game-changer. Whether you're trying to rescue Colonel Campbell in Intruder 1 or uncovering a series of murders in Dead Man Whispers, the M9 can help you navigate these tricky situations with finesse.

Combining Stealth and the M9

To truly excel in Metal Gear Solid 2, you need to combine stealth tactics with effective M9 usage. Here's how to do it:

Stealth Movement

• Crouching: Always move in a crouched position to reduce your noise and visibility.
• Crawling: Use crawling to move through tight spaces and avoid detection.
• Hugging Walls: Hug walls to blend in with your surroundings and avoid being spotted by enemies.

Distractions

• Knocking: Use your fist to knock on walls and attract enemies to specific locations.
• Magazine Toss: Toss magazines to create distractions and lure enemies away from their posts.

Evasion

• Cardboard Box: The cardboard box is your best friend. Use it to move around undetected and blend in with your environment.
• Lockers: Hide in lockers to avoid detection and plan your next move.

Enemy Awareness

• Radar: Pay close attention to the radar to track enemy movements and avoid patrols.
• Sound: Listen carefully to enemy footsteps and voices to anticipate their actions.

Using the M9 in Stealth

• Silent Takedowns: Approach enemies from behind and use the M9 for silent takedowns.
• Headshots: Aim for headshots to quickly neutralize enemies and avoid raising alarms.
• Strategic Positioning: Position yourself strategically to take out multiple enemies with minimal risk.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it! A comprehensive look at the Snake Tales missions and the M9 pistol in Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty. Whether you're exploring alternate realities or mastering the art of non-lethal takedowns, these elements add depth and replayability to an already fantastic game. Now go out there, equip your M9, and show those guards what you're made of! Happy sneaking, guys!