Metal Gear Solid 2: David Hayter Reflects on Raiden Reveal and Kojima Collaboration

When Metal Gear Solid 2 launched in 2001, anticipation was at a fever pitch.

Hideo Kojima and Konami had already achieved legendary status with the original PlayStation title, Metal Gear Solid.

That game not only revitalized the previously dormant Metal Gear franchise but also established protagonist Solid Snake as an iconic figure in gaming.

Its blend of cinematic storytelling and stealth gameplay significantly expanded the series’ audience, laying the groundwork for future installments on platforms like the Nintendo Switch and beyond. However, both fans and industry insiders were taken aback when Metal Gear Solid 2's story took an unexpected turn.

Contrary to expectations, the sequel replaced the legendary Solid Snake with a new lead character, Raiden, a move that sparked widespread conversation within the gaming community. David Hayter, the veteran voice actor behind Solid Snake in every title except for Metal Gear Solid V, recently shared his own candid reaction to this major narrative shift.

Speaking to PC Gamer, Hayter explained, "I was as surprised as anyone that Snake would no longer be the protagonist.

I actually found out during a recording session.

When I learned Raiden would be the central character instead, I was definitely surprised.

I remember thinking, 'Wow.

Okay… we'll see how that plays out.' The game's release generated understandable debate, but ultimately, Metal Gear Solid 2 proved to be an outstanding entry in the series.

When Metal Gear Solid 3 brought the focus back to Snake, it felt like a return to the franchise's roots and remains my personal favorite." Hayter, who reprised his role as Snake for the upcoming Metal Gear Solid Delta remake—covering the franchise’s celebrated third entry—also addressed questions about his direct professional interactions with series creator Hideo Kojima.

"People often ask me what it was like working alongside Kojima, but the truth is, I rarely worked directly with him.

He typically directed the Japanese-language versions, while the English dubbing sessions were guided by Kris Zimmerman Salter.

I have met Mr.

Kojima a few times; he’s a brilliant game designer and a gracious individual.

Still, his influence often came through the games themselves rather than personal direction during voice work." The Metal Gear Solid series stands as one of Konami’s most valuable and enduring properties, achieving both critical and commercial success across multiple generations of hardware, including the eShop and Nintendo Switch platforms.

With the upcoming release of Metal Gear Solid Delta and continued fan interest, the saga continues to shape the conversation in video game development and preservation. Hayter's reflections offer a rare, behind-the-scenes glimpse into the development of one of gaming’s most influential franchises, highlighting both the creative risks taken by Kojima and the collaborative efforts that bring beloved games to life.

As Metal Gear Solid persists in captivating new generations on modern hardware, its legacy as a landmark series remains undisputed.

Metal Gear Metal Gear Solid Snake David David Hayter Hideo Kojima Kojima Metal Gear Solid 2 Solid Snake Konami Nintendo Switch Metal Gear Solid Delta PC Gamer Kris Zimmerman Salter