As the anniversary of the Japanese launch of Metal Gear Solid 2 arrives, Hideo Kojima reflects fondly on what he considers his preferred musical composition from the series. The soundscape of the Metal Gear Solid franchise is rich with energetic, electronic rock music that invigorates gameplay, but one particular song resonates more deeply with Kojima.

According to Kojima, the poignant track that stands apart is the closing theme of MGS2. He elaborates in a detailed post on a social platform that he particularly favors "Can't Say Goodbye to Yesterday," highlighting its emotional significance.

The backdrop of Metal Gear Solid 2, set in a reimagined New York City filled with enigmas, influenced Kojima and his team's decision to feature jazz as the game's concluding theme. He emphasizes the talent of composer Rika Muranaka in this genre. "We knew from the beginning that this genre would be the right fit," he mentions.

The creation of this piece occurred well before finalizing the game, signifying a substantial investment of time and creativity. "A lot of effort was dedicated to it," he notes.

This orchestral ballad is described by Kojima as embodying the essence of an autumn leaf, delicate and serene. With a sweeping orchestral arrangement, singer Carla White delivers a moving chorus that encapsulates the sentimentality of the moment.

"The lyrics truly resonate," Kojima remarks thoughtfully in his online reflection. His sentiments are shared by many fans of the series, with one player recounting how they frequently listen to this particular song. In a response to Kojima, they reminisce about their youthful experience gaming late into the night with friends, vividly recalling the emotional weight of the music echoing in their hearts.

This illustrates the lasting impact that remarkable video game music can have, resonating long after the game concludes. The anticipation surrounding Metal Gear Solid Delta arises from Konami's concern that the franchise may be fading from the awareness of newer gamers.