Metal Gear Solid V: Ground Zeroes is a third-person action game with a focus on stealth. Part of the long-running Metal Gear franchise, it is a prologue to Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain and takes place after Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker as part of a sub-series or prequels in the main franchise set long before Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots .
The game is set in 1975, after the events of Pace Walker , and follows Big Boss (Snake) as he infiltrates an American black site Camp Omega on Cuba to free Cipher agent Paz and child soldier Chico. The game features a large open-world design with a real-time day and night cycle, allowing players to choose their approach to completing the mission.
The gameplay focuses on stealth, but also offers the option to use direct action, including guns and explosives. Players can mark enemies through their binoculars, track their movements using a mini-map alternative, and use tools like flares to call in support or extraction. The game also features a variety of vehicles that can be stolen and driven.
Players can take down enemies silently with stealth tactics, such as knocking them out or taking them into a chokehold. Alternatively, they can engage in third-action shooter gameplay, using turrets and guns to clear the camp. Enemies have a line of sight, and players must stay hidden by crouching until they are detected.
Additional side missions can be unlocked in the game, with one becoming available after collecting all XOF patches and depending on the system (PS/Xbox).