Konami has officially announced that the highly anticipated online multiplayer mode for Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater, titled Fox Hunt, will not be available at launch. Instead, it is scheduled for release later in fall 2025, separate from the single-player campaign, which debuts on August 28. Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater is a modern remake of the classic Metal Gear Solid 3, staying largely faithful to the original while upgrading the visuals to contemporary standards.

The original Metal Gear Solid 3 initially lacked multiplayer, but the enhanced version, Metal Gear Solid 3: Subsistence, introduced an online mode called Metal Gear Online. While the PS2's limited online capabilities hindered its success, the mode was praised for its innovative gameplay. Now, Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater is set to introduce its own unique multiplayer experience.

Unlike Subsistence's Metal Gear Online, Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater will feature a brand-new multiplayer mode called Fox Hunt. Slated for a fall 2025 release, this mode will focus on hide-and-seek-style gameplay, incorporating core mechanics like camouflage and survival. While details remain scarce, Konami promises more information in the coming weeks.

Delaying Fox Hunt poses a potential risk. While similar strategies worked for GTA Online and Red Dead Online, Snake Eater's shorter campaign might lead players to move on before the multiplayer arrives. The success of Fox Hunt will depend on its ability to stand out in a crowded live-service gaming market.

Despite the challenges, the Metal Gear franchise has a strong history with multiplayer modes, making Fox Hunt an exciting addition. Fans will have to wait until fall to see how this new mode enhances the Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater experience.