Beating the Beauties

The Beauty & The Beast unit represent four of the toughest encounters in the game. These subtle hints will lend a hand without blowing any surprises.

1. Think heavier thoughts when battling Raging Raven. Raven seems to have some powerful weapons. Maybe you should return the favor?

2. Precision may help against Screaming Mantis. See anything bright or colorful? Maybe you should shoot it...but you may get more than you bargained for.

3. Slow down when fighting Laughing Octopus. By crouching or lying down (tap or hold X), Snake's "threat ring" will show nearby dangers.

4. Keep your Eyes open when fighting Crying Wolf. Watch your tracks, and don't forget to reach out and touch someone should the opportunity arise.

Boss Basics

Metal Gear Solid 4 has many, many boss encounters. Here are some hints that will give you an edge without spoiling the experience.

1. Remember your inventory. You'll occasionally come across bosses that can't be defeated using raw firepower. It might be worth poking through your items and guns to see if you find anything interesting.

2. When in doubt, check the controls. Tap the Select button to see a full layout of your control scheme. There are times when you'll need to learn a different way of playing - you'll know when you get there.

3. There are multiple ways to beat most bosses. With few exceptions, you can battle any boss using lethal (guns) or nonlethal (tranquilizers, CQC) force. Depending on your tactics, the encounter will be different...try using a different approach next time you play!

Advanced Enemy Strategies

Some enemies are harder than others. Here are some useful ways to turn the tide just when it looks like the battle is lost.

1. Outer Haven troops are immune to CQC...or are they? If you try to use CQC tactics against the armored Outer Haven "frog" soldiers, you'll be caught in a bind. But all is not lost: wiggle your way to freedom, and look for the right time to tap Triangle.

2. Don't fight Geckos unless you must. While you can whittle down a Gecko with prolonged firepower, this is a dangerous tactic. Don't get too close to a Gecko, either, or you'll get a devastating kick in return.

3. When infiltrating, use the Mk. II tranquilizer pistol. Enemy soldiers are usually unconcerned by tranquilizer attacks: if they encounter sleeping victims, they'll just wake them up. Remember to aim for the head.