Metal Gear Solid Moves From PlayStation To ESP32

September 29, 2026 - 07:52

If you have not heard of Metal Gear, you likely have not played video games over the last few decades. The original Metal Gear dates back to 1987 and launched on the MSX, but the real rise to fame came later with Metal Gear Solid on the original PlayStation. That game defined stealth action for a generation and remains a landmark title in video game history.

Now, something unexpected has happened. Metal Gear Solid has been ported to the ESP32, a low cost microcontroller chip typically used for Internet of Things projects and hobbyist electronics. This is not a commercial release. It is a homebrew effort that demonstrates just how far enthusiasts will push limited hardware.

The ESP32 is not designed for gaming. It has a fraction of the processing power and memory found in the original PlayStation. Running a complex 3D game like Metal Gear Solid on such a device requires significant optimization and clever coding. Early reports suggest the port is playable, though it comes with compromises in frame rate and visual fidelity.

This project joins a growing list of unexpected ports to microcontrollers, including Doom and other classic titles. It highlights the creativity of the modding community and the surprising flexibility of modern embedded hardware. While it will not replace the original experience, it stands as a technical curiosity and a tribute to a game that refuses to fade away.