In Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater, one of the most unique and mysterious boss battles you will face is against The Sorrow, a member of the Cobra Unit with the ability to communicate with the dead. This guide will provide you with a step-by-step approach to the battle, along with some tips and tricks to help you overcome this supernatural encounter.
The Sorrow’s battle is unlike any other in the game, as it does not involve traditional combat. Instead, you will face a ghostly apparition of The Sorrow in a dream-like sequence, where you must navigate a river filled with the spirits of the enemies and bosses you have killed throughout the game. Your goal is to reach the end of the river while avoiding the spirits and their attacks.
The Sorrow Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Prepare for the Battle
Before engaging in the boss fight, make sure you have the following items equipped:
- Rations and other food items (to maintain stamina)
- Cure items (to treat injuries and drowning)
Step 2: Enter the River
As soon as the battle begins, you will find yourself in a waist-deep river. Begin walking forward, following the flow of the water.
Step 3: Avoid the Spirits
As you progress through the river, you will encounter the spirits of the enemies and bosses you have killed. Avoid touching these spirits, as doing so will drain your stamina and health. Keep an eye out for their unique attack patterns and movements to anticipate where they will appear.
Step 4: Watch The Sorrow’s Movements
Throughout the battle, The Sorrow will continuously move ahead of you, occasionally stopping to unleash a powerful attack. Pay close attention to his movements and position, and be prepared to dodge or move out of the way when he attacks.
Step 5: Reach the End of the River
Continue to navigate the river, avoiding the spirits and The Sorrow’s attacks, until you reach the end of the river. Here, you will find The Sorrow’s lifeless body floating in the water.
Step 6: “Die” and Revive
Upon reaching the end of the river, The Sorrow will unleash a powerful attack that will “kill” Snake. Do not panic, as this is part of the battle. After the “Game Over” screen appears, use the Revival Pill located in Snake’s tooth to revive him and end the battle.
Tips, Tricks, and Known Glitches
- Non-lethal takedowns affect the battle: The number of spirits you encounter in the river is directly related to the number of enemies you have killed throughout the game. If you have used non-lethal takedowns on enemies, there will be fewer spirits to avoid during the battle.
- Use the D-Pad to move slowly: By using the D-Pad to move through the river, Snake will walk more slowly and carefully, making it easier to avoid the spirits and their attacks.
- Watch for items: As you progress through the river, you may come across useful items floating in the water. Be sure to pick these up to help you in the battle and the rest of the game.
- Known Glitch – Skipping the Battle: There is a known glitch that can be exploited to skip the battle entirely. When the battle begins, immediately open the map screen and close it. This will cause the battle to end and the game to proceed as if you had completed the encounter.
By following this step-by-step guide and utilizing the tips, tricks, and known glitches provided, you should be able to overcome The Sorrow in Metal Gear Solid 3 with relative ease. Remember that this battle is more about observation and patience than traditional combat. Good luck, and happy gaming!
