The impact of Metal Gear Solid on the gaming industry cannot be overstated. It not only elevated the stealth genre but also raised the bar for storytelling in games. The series has since become known for its complex narratives, often featuring themes of nuclear proliferation, the ethics of scientific research, and the psychological effects of warfare.

Metal Gear Solid introduced a new standard for stealth gameplay. Players controlled Solid Snake as he navigated through a 3D environment, avoiding detection by enemy soldiers. The game encouraged strategy and patience, allowing players to use shadows, disguises, and distractions to evade or silently take down enemies. This gameplay mechanic was innovative and influenced a generation of games that followed.

The game has also spawned numerous sequels, prequels, and spin-offs, including Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty, Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater, and Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain, each contributing to the lore and expanding the universe of Metal Gear.