In Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater, one of the challenging boss battles you will face is against The Pain, a member of the Cobra Unit who controls hornets and uses them as weapons. This guide will provide you with a step-by-step approach to the battle, along with some tips and tricks to help you defeat him more easily.
The Pain’s primary attacks involve using his hornets to swarm and damage Snake, as well as forming them into various shapes like a shield, a gun, or even a grenade. The battle takes place in an underground cave with water and several platforms. The water can be both an advantage and a disadvantage, as it can provide cover but can also attract more hornets.
The Pain Boss Fight Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Prepare for the Battle
Before engaging in the boss fight, make sure you have the following items equipped:
- AK-47 or M16A1 (for dealing damage)
- Mk22 tranquilizer gun (for non-lethal takedowns)
- Grenades (optional)
- Rations and other food items (to maintain stamina)
- Cure items (to treat injuries and hornet stings)
Step 2: Utilize the Platforms
As the battle begins, immediately move to one of the platforms in the cave. This will provide you with a better vantage point and make it easier to avoid hornet attacks.
Step 3: Attack During Openings
The Pain will occasionally lower his hornet shield to attack Snake. This is the perfect time to shoot him with your chosen weapon (AK-47, M16A1, or Mk22 tranquilizer gun). Aim for his head for maximum damage.
Step 4: Evade Hornet Swarms
When The Pain sends a swarm of hornets towards Snake, quickly dive into the water and swim away to avoid taking damage. Be cautious, as staying in the water for too long can attract more hornets.
Step 5: Destroy Hornet Structures
The Pain will sometimes form hornets into shapes like a gun or a grenade. Shoot these structures as soon as they form to prevent them from attacking Snake.
Step 6: Use Grenades (Optional)
If you have grenades, consider throwing them at The Pain when he is exposed. This can deal significant damage and potentially stun him, allowing for additional attacks.
Step 7: Maintain Stamina and Health
Keep Snake’s stamina up during the battle by eating food and using rations. Also, be sure to use cure items to treat any injuries or hornet stings Snake may receive during the fight.
Step 8: Repeat and Adapt
Continue to follow steps 2-7, adapting your strategy as needed based on The Pain’s movements and actions. Patience and timing are key in this battle; wait for the right opportunities to strike.
Tips, Tricks, and Known Glitches
- Use the shotgun (M37): If you have acquired the M37 shotgun, it can be very effective against The Pain, dealing high damage and potentially stunning him.
- Avoid the “Bullet Bee” attack: The Pain’s “Bullet Bee” attack can be devastating. When you see him preparing this attack, immediately dive into the water and swim away to avoid it.
- Smoke grenades: Throwing smoke grenades can disorient The Pain and his hornets, providing you with an opportunity to attack.
- Known Glitch – Quick Defeat: There is a known glitch that can be exploited to defeat The Pain quickly. When the battle starts, immediately swim to the platform on the far right. Stand on the edge of the platform and equip the Mk22 tranquilizer gun. Aim for The Pain’s head and keep shooting. If done correctly, The Pain will not attack, and you can defeat him with minimal effort.
By following this step-by-step guide and utilizing the tips, tricks, and known glitches provided, you should be able to defeat The Pain in Metal Gear Solid 3 with relative ease. Remember to stay patient and make use of the environment to your advantage. Good luck, and happy gaming!
