Snake sheds stealth-skin?

Metal Gear head honcho Hideo Kojima has revealed to Famitsu that new Metal Gear Solid 4 details will debut at TGS. No surprises there. However he also noted that a new trailer will feature our first look at the gameplay of the new stealth game. And one of the most interesting aspects is that you won't have to use stealth.

The Famitsu article, translated by IGN, quotes Kojima as saying that the game is no longer specifically about sneaking missions, with the gamer free to determine how they reach their set goal. So does this mean the end of our bandana-clad hero mincing about in a cardboard box?

Not necessarily, as Famitsu appears to have seen this new trailer, providing screenshots of Snake updating his stealth kit to include the new warzone chic of sneaking around in an oil drum. They also go into detail about his new Octocam, or 'Octopus Camoflage' which allows the aged soldier to change colour to blend into his environment. But combined with an improved CQC combat system and Snake's Metal Gear Mark II robot buddy capable of electrocuting enemies, it is clear that combat will indeed be opened up somewhat.

Those of you desperate to get your mitts on Snake's new game will have to be patient as Kojima also revealed in the article that the sneak-'em-up won't show its face until the latter part of 2007, as it still needs a solid year's development.