Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain is an action adventure game set in an open world environment on PC. Players take control of Venom Snake as they navigate missions involving infiltration and extraction while managing resources and developing a personal base. The Western Tack serves as a cosmetic option that changes the appearance of the D-Horse companion to a non-tactical loadout suited for Old West themes.
Gameplay
The core loop centers on approaching objectives with a mix of stealth and direct action. Venom Snake can move through environments on foot or with the assistance of D-Horse, which provides mobility across large maps in Afghanistan and Africa. Bond levels with the horse increase through time spent riding it, unlocking minor improvements to its performance.
Resource gathering and base management form another layer. Players extract personnel and materials to expand Mother Base, which in turn supports new equipment and upgrades. D-Horse functions as both transport and a tactical element during operations, though its use requires selecting it over other available companions.
The Western Tack DLC alters D-Horse visually with a set of seven items that give the animal a classic western saddle and gear. This change applies only after reaching specific story milestones and meeting development conditions on the base. The cosmetic remains unavailable during multiplayer sessions.
Game Modes
The primary experience consists of a single player campaign built around sequential missions. Each mission allows different approaches to completing objectives, with success measured by factors such as time taken and resources secured.
Metal Gear Online provides a separate multiplayer component focused on team-based matches. D-Horse and its associated customizations, including the Western Tack, do not appear in this mode.
Base Development and Companions
Progression involves expanding Mother Base through extracted staff and materials. Higher development levels open new options for equipment and support structures. Companions like D-Horse receive upgrades tied to bond levels earned during field operations.
Customization extends to the horse through multiple tack options. The Western Tack stands out for its thematic shift away from military styling toward a more decorative western appearance.
Is It Worth Playing?
This title suits players who enjoy methodical stealth action combined with base-building elements. The single player campaign delivers a complete narrative experience with freedom in mission execution. The Western Tack adds a light visual variation for D-Horse users who reach the required story point.
Those seeking ongoing multiplayer support may find the dedicated Metal Gear Online mode sufficient, though it excludes horse customizations. The game remains available as a finished product without seasonal content or active development cycles.
Overall it appeals to fans of the series who value tactical decision making and companion management over fast-paced combat alone. The addition of themed items like the Western Tack provides minor personalization once unlocked through normal play.
