Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker follows the story of Naked Snake, who after the events of Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater , sets up home in Colombia and creates Militaires Sans Frontières (Soldiers without Borders) to provide support for countries in need. The game's story explores the events that led to Militaires Sans Frontières becoming Outer Heaven in later games, as well as Snake's final acceptance of his role as Big Boss. Snake is still struggling with guilt over a past tragedy.
One day, Snake meets Ramón Gálvez, a peace teacher, and his student Paz Ortega, who ask for Militaires Sans Frontières' help in bringing peace to the country of Costa Rica. Recently, an unknown armed force has been causing trouble in the country due to its constitution forbidding a military army. Snake initially refuses to help, but after being presented with a tape recorder that he believes may belong to The Boss, he agrees to join the mission.
Peace Walker is set between the events of Snake Eater and the original Metal Gear game. Gameplay consists of stealth-based movement, similar to the Metal Gear series, but also allows for action-oriented gameplay if desired. Snake can choose from different button configurations, including shooter, action, or hunter types.
The game features a central mother base where players can save their game, develop weapons, and embark on quests. Players can replay previous missions to gain higher scores and participate in additional ones not necessary to the main story. Developing and upgrading weapons is done by spending currency known as GMP, which can be obtained by completing quests.
Multiplayer in Peace Walker is limited to ad-hoc mode and co-op. Story missions can be played with up to two people, while co-op missions can be played with four players. After completing certain missions and meeting requirements, Snake can participate in hunts against monsters from Capcom's Monster Hunter series.