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Before anything else, a short trivia session was held. Questions ranged in difficulty from “what is President Johnson’s CODEC frequency in MGS2” to “what is the serial number on the side of the Hind helicopter in MGS3”. I was able to ask a few questions myself, such as "Which real world actress inspired the look of The Boss", and "What brand of cigarettes does Solid Snake smoke?” We were taken aback by the knowledge of some of the panelists! Prizes, such as the aforementioned "Metal Gear Solid 2" Medicom figurines, were then handed out to winners. *³
Once through the trivia period had ended, it was time to get down to business. We recapped the entire series up to today, beginning with the advent of "Metal Gear" on the MSX platform. Using and emulator, we were able to show the original Japanese title, rather than the poorly ported Famicom version that most were familiar with. Next, we were able to show the limited release sequel, "Metal Gear 2 Solid Snake", as well as discuss the history of how the less-than-popular "Snake's Revenge", a non-canon Famicom sequel, led to Kojima's decision to create this true sequel to the original "Metal Gear".
Next on the list were "Metal Gear Solid" and "Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty", the two titles that turned the name "Hideo Kojima" into a household word for gamers. Needless to say, the general response towards Raiden being the playable character in the latter title was negative, subtract a few cries for the contrary from a few panelists (including yours truly). Aside from this, we were able to talk about the concept that Kojima wanted to convey with Raiden; showing Solid Snake from a different perspective. Whether or not this was well accomplished is still up for debate.
As most panel attendees were still fresh out of MGS3, we didn't spend much time discussing the latest entry, and instead focused on the upcoming "Subsistence" and "MGS4". After a short talk about some of the latest theories and confirmed features, the latest trailers were shown which were met with both laughter and applause. Though sadly, it was almost time for our short hour in the panel room to come to a close. Before leaving however, we were able to speak with several of the fans in attendance. One of the more dedicated fans even had the Fox-Hound logo tattooed onto his arm.
The next panel scheduled to use the room quickly edged us out, and a large circle of Metal Gear fans started to group outside. Grabbing my camera, I found this a great opportunity to grab some more cosplay photos. Nick was there, as well as an aspiring actor who dressed as MGS1 Snake. Another brought along an accurate Airsoft replica of a SOCOM pistol. Two others were wearing "ZOMBIE" and "OYAMA" face paint! The level of detail that the fans strived for in their costumes is truly astonishing. They have my respect.
At this time, seeing as everyone who went to the panel was still together, we took the opportunity to plan a photo shoot for the following day. Everybody would come in costume to be photographed as a group, out near the fountain at the entrance to the convention center. After everything was decided, we went our separate ways for the remainder of the day, to enjoy the other sections of the convention at our leisure.
The rest of the day was littered with random events, stops for food, and finally, rest. The first day of the Otakon had gone well, and we were ready for some well needed sleep.
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