What Happened to Venom Snake’s Horn?
In the critically acclaimed game Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain, the main protagonist Venom Snake’s iconic "horn" is a recurring theme throughout the game. For those who are new to the series or unfamiliar with the game, Venom Snake is the protagonist of the game and a member of the Diamond Dogs mercenaries. The horn is a shrapnel lodged in Snake’s head, a remnant of his experiences in Afghanistan. In this article, we’ll explore what happened to Venom Snake’s horn, why it grew, and what significance it holds in the game.
Earning Demon Points and Growing the Horn
To grow Venom Snake’s horn, players need to accumulate 20,000 Demon Points. These points are earned through the player’s actions throughout the game. Positive actions, such as helping soldiers or completing missions without harm, can reduce the number of Demon Points. On the other hand, negative actions, such as killing innocent people, developing nuclear weapons, or causing chaos, increase the number of Demon Points.
When the player reaches 50,000 Demon Points, the horn will grow, and Snake will become permanently soaked in blood. This transformation symbolizes the protagonist’s descent into madness and reflects his character development throughout the game.
Shrapnel as a Physical Representation of Snake’s Psychological Trauma
The shrapnel horn is more than just a visual distinction; it serves as a physical representation of Venom Snake’s psychological trauma. The shrapnel is a constant reminder of Snake’s experiences in Afghanistan, where he suffered significant mental and physical trauma.
As the player progresses through the game, the horn’s growth is a reflection of Snake’s psychological state. The more he experiences stress, trauma, and violence, the more the horn grows. This connection highlights the psychological impact of war and violence on individuals, making it a poignant aspect of the game.
Symbolism of the Horn
The horn holds significant symbolic meaning in the game. As Venom Snake’s horn grows, so does his darkness and aggression. This reflects his struggle with his own psyche, as he becomes increasingly consumed by his desire for revenge and his own personal demons.
In contrast, the horn also serves as a symbol of Snake’s connection to Big Boss, the original protagonist of the series. Big Boss, who has undergone a similar transformation, sports a similar horn, signifying a link between the two characters and their shared experiences.
Consequences of Becoming Demon Snake
When the player becomes Demon Snake, the game undergoes significant changes. The tone becomes darker, and the story takes a dramatic turn. The horn’s growth also changes the player’s abilities, making Venom Snake a more aggressive and formidable opponent.
In terms of gameplay, becoming Demon Snake has both positive and negative effects. The player gains increased damage resistance, speed, and strength, making combat easier. However, this transformation also makes Venom Snake more susceptible to certain missions, reducing the player’s options and creating challenges.
Conclusion
Venom Snake’s horn is a powerful symbol of the protagonist’s psychological trauma, representing the lasting impact of war and violence on individuals. Through the horn’s growth and changes, the game explores themes of morality, violence, and the human condition. Whether the player chooses to grow the horn or maintain a more heroic Snake, the symbolism and consequences are deeply ingrained in the game’s narrative and gameplay.
Additional References:
- Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain
- Metal Gear Solid V: Ground Zeroes
- Metal Gear Wiki
Table: Earning Demon Points
| Demon Points | Positive Actions | Negative Actions |
|---|---|---|
| 20,000 | – | – |
| 50,000 | – | – |
| ? | Killing people, harming animals, developing nuclear weapons | Helping soldiers, completing missions without harm |
Bullet List:
• Venom Snake’s horn is a physical representation of his psychological trauma.
• The horn grows when the player reaches 20,000 Demon Points.
• Becoming Demon Snake has significant changes in gameplay and story.
• The horn is a symbol of Snake’s connection to Big Boss.
• The horn represents Snake’s darkness and aggression.
By understanding the significance of Venom Snake’s horn, players can appreciate the game’s deeper themes and narrative.