Why did Big Boss die in MGS4?

Why Did Big Boss Die in MGS4?

Big Boss, the legendary soldier from the Metal Gear franchise, met his demise in the fourth installment of the game series. But why? In this article, we’ll delve into the various theories and plot twists surrounding Big Boss’s death. Spoiler alert: this article contains major spoilers from Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots.

The Cause of Big Boss’s Death

As revealed in the game, Big Boss died due to complications from the FOXDIE virus. FOX-die, not Fox-eye, is a type of retrovirus that recognizes and targets specific individuals. In this case, FOXDIE was programmed by Solid Snake to kill other members of the Patriots who had turned against him, including Big Boss.

According to the game’s lore, Snake had obtained the FOXDIE virus from Drebin, a junk dealer who had acquired the virus from an unknown party. The true creator of the virus remains unclear. Snake used this virus to kill Big Boss, believing that it would prevent him from continuing his plans to create a worldwide surveillance state.

Alternative Theories

While FOXDIE is the accepted explanation for Big Boss’s death, some fans believe that there may be another reason for his demise. One theory suggests that Big Boss was faking his own death in order to escape the destruction of the world and maintain his independence. This interpretation is based on the enigmatic smile on Big Boss’s face as he watches the destruction of the game’s world.

Backstory: The Patriots

To understand Big Boss’s death, it’s necessary to know the backstory of the Patriots, a organization that plays a central role in the Metal Gear saga. The Patriots, also known as the Crying Wolf, were created by David Oh, an American scientist, to replace the Soviet Union as a global superpower. Through their vast network of secret agents, informants, and brainwashed subjects, the Patriots aimed to control world events and dictators, ensuring their domination.

Big Boss and the Patriots

Big Boss, originally known as Naked Snake, was a key player in the Patriots’ original plan. He assassinated The Boss, a legendary mercenary and rival of his, in exchange for immunity from prosecution for his role in the Vietnam War. This event changed the course of history and led to the creation of the Patriots.

The Consequences of Big Boss’s Death

Big Boss’s death has far-reaching implications for the Metal Gear story. Without Big Boss, the Patriots lose a key member and their structure begins to crumble. This allows Solid Snake and his allies to take steps towards dismantling the Patriots’ plans and creating a new world order.

Did Big Boss Really Die?

Some fans believe that Big Boss may not be truly dead, but in a coma or imprisoned. This theory arises from the game’s post-credits scene, in which a figure resembles Big Boss, hinting that he may have faked his own death and is waiting for the perfect moment to strike back. This theory is backed by the game’s soundtrack, which features a subtle hint that Big Boss might still be alive.

In conclusion, Big Boss died in Metal Gear Solid 4 due to complications from the FOXDIE virus. However, alternative theories suggest that he may not be truly dead, either faking his own demise or waiting for the perfect moment to strike back. Despite the complexity of the storyline, one thing is certain: Big Boss’s legacy continues to shape the Metal Gear saga, and his death serves as a major turning point in the narrative.