Killing The End Early in Metal Gear Solid Delta

Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater faithfully recreates the iconic boss encounters from the original MGS3, including the memorable sniper duel against The End. This ancient warrior from the Cobra Unit presents a unique challenge, but players can bypass the full fight using clever exploits like early sniping, clock tampering, or simple patience. These methods pay homage to Hideo Kojima’s penchant for meta humor and hidden mechanics.

Who is The End and Why Skip His Fight?

The End is a legendary figure in the Metal Gear lore, known as the ‘Ancient Sniper’ of the Cobra Unit. Over 100 years old during the 1964 events of Snake Eater, he relies on photosynthesis for sustenance and wields a custom Mosin-Nagant sniper rifle. His boss arena spans a vast forest, testing players’ patience and marksmanship in one of gaming’s most atmospheric duels.

• His fight emphasizes camouflage, wind mechanics, and long-range shooting.
• Defeating him normally rewards the Mosin-Nagant and Spirit Camo.
• Skipping it via exploits still allows item retrieval later.

Many players opt to skip due to the fight’s length and difficulty, especially without prior sniper rifle access. These Easter eggs add replay value and nod to the PS2 era’s quirks.

Method 1: Snipe The End Before the Boss Arena

The most direct early kill involves spotting The End during his initial cutscene and taking him out with a sniper rifle. This requires preparation and a detour.

1. Progress until the cutscene after Ocelot’s Russian Roulette with Sokolov at the Ponizovje Warehouse.
2. Instead of advancing, backtrack to obtain the Dragunov SVD sniper rifle from a warehouse in the Rassvet area.
3. Return to the pier where The End sits in his wheelchair, sunbathing.
4. Aim carefully from a distance—headshots work best to avoid alerting guards.

Success triggers an explosion from his implanted microbomb, flinging a wheelchair wheel toward Naked Snake. Dodge it quickly to avoid damage. This method triggers an Ocelot Unit ambush, but you can escape and continue.

In Delta, this works identically to MGS3 HD, unlocking achievements like ‘The Early End.’ It’s riskier on higher difficulties due to enemy patrols but saves hours of sniping practice.

Method 2: Let The End Die of Old Age Naturally

Kojima’s signature gag lets The End perish from advanced age if you wait long enough. His 100+ years make him vulnerable to time itself.

1. Enter the boss fight in the open forest area.
2. Save your game immediately upon starting.
3. Quit the game entirely and wait two weeks in real time.
4. Reload the save—The End will be dead, with a message noting he passed peacefully.

This preserves the humor without cheating but demands commitment. You’ll find his body slumped over, and you can proceed to grab rewards post-fight.

Method 3: Advance Your System Clock for Instant Aging

For impatient players, manipulate your console or PC’s date forward. This simulates the two-week wait.

On modern systems, background processes like PS5’s suspend can prevent the trick. Always verify the game fully exits. Skipping forward a week works too, as the mechanic checks elapsed real-world time.

Pros and Cons of Each Approach

Standard fight remains rewarding for purists—use docks for initial shots to weaken him, then engage fully.

Historical Context in Metal Gear Series

The End debuted in MGS3: Snake Eater (2004), captivating players with his lore and mechanics. Photosynthesis stuns if you linger in sunlight, and his camouflage rivals Snake’s. Delta’s remake preserves these, including HD Collection tweaks like precise wheelchair sniping. Fandom wikis note variations: early kill in HD unlocks trophies; waiting triggers tranquilizer if paused oddly.

These exploits highlight Kojima’s design philosophy—rewarding curiosity over linear play. Similar meta elements appear in later titles, like MGSV’s quiet escapes.

Tips for Success and Common Pitfalls

• Backup Saves: Always have a pre-cutscene save; exploits can softlock if mistimed.
• Sniper Acquisition: Dragunov is in a locked warehouse—use key from earlier guards.
• Modern Console Quirks: PS5/Xbox suspend modes block clock changes; full power cycle needed.
• No Sniper? Alternatives: Hold-up with pistol or CQC during cutscene, though less reliable.
• Post-Skip Rewards: Backtrack to arena for Mosin-Nagant and camo even after early kill.

Avoid triggering the full fight prematurely, or the window closes.

Community Reactions and Legacy

Fans celebrate Delta’s fidelity—YouTube showcases and forums buzz with nostalgia. PC Gamer hailed the clock trick’s return as ‘tickled pink’ genius. It’s a testament to why MGS endures: depth beyond combat.

FAQ

Can I get achievements for killing The End early?

Yes, ‘The Early End’ trophy unlocks on successful pre-fight snipe in Delta.

Does skipping affect the story?

No—narrative proceeds unchanged; The End’s defeat is canon regardless.

What if the clock trick fails on PS5?

Ensure game is fully closed, not in rest mode. Test with a 1-week advance first.

Is the Mosin-Nagant missable?

No—retrieve from his body post-any method.

Any new changes in Delta?

Mechanic identical to MGS3, with minor modern console adjustments.