How to Beat Black Color

Boss Guide: Running Man

The Running Man is one of the more unique and challenging boss encounters in Metal Gear 2: Solid Snake. A former Olympic sprinter turned mercenary, he utilizes his incredible speed and knowledge of the environment to outmaneuver Solid Snake. This battle takes place in the jungle, a multi-layered arena that demands both quick reflexes and strategic thinking.

Location: Jungle Area (after escaping the prison and navigating the swamp).

Recommended Loadout

Having the right gear is paramount for this fight. Running Man's speed and the environment itself can be formidable obstacles, so come prepared.

• Handgun: Your primary offensive weapon. Ensure you have a full clip and ample spare ammunition. Its rapid-fire capability is crucial for capitalizing on brief openings.
• Grenades: Absolutely essential for stunning Running Man and creating critical openings. They are particularly effective when he is cornered or attempting to flee through tight passages. Aim to carry at least 5-7.
• Plastic Explosives (C4): While not a direct damage dealer against Running Man, C4 can be used strategically to block his escape routes or force him into specific areas. Place them in narrow choke points or near obstacles he frequently uses for cover. You'll typically have 2-3 available at this point.
• Rations: Crucial for health recovery. Running Man's hit-and-run tactics, combined with potential environmental damage or missteps, can wear you down. Carry at least 3-5 rations.
• Body Armor: Reduces damage taken from any attacks Running Man manages to land. This is a significant advantage, especially in later phases. If you've found it, equip it.
• Binoculars: Useful for scouting ahead and observing Running Man's patrol patterns or preferred escape routes from a distance, though less critical during direct engagement.

Boss Overview: Running Man

Running Man is a master of evasion. His primary tactic is to use his speed to avoid direct confrontation, only striking when he has the element of surprise or when Snake is vulnerable. Understanding his movement patterns and the jungle layout is key to victory.

Phase 1: The Chase and Ambush (100% - 60% Health)

Upon entering the jungle, Running Man will immediately attempt to flee. This phase is less about direct combat and more about predicting his movements and setting up ambushes. The jungle is a maze of dense foliage, narrow paths, and occasional open clearings. Running Man will constantly be on the move, trying to create distance and then circle back for a surprise attack.

Strategy for Phase 1:

1. Track His Movements: Running Man is incredibly fast. Pay close attention to the sound of his footsteps (a distinct "thump-thump") and the rustling of leaves on your radar. He will often appear briefly at the edge of the screen before disappearing again. Your radar is your best friend here.
2. Cornering Tactics: Your primary goal in this phase is to force him into a position where you can land a few shots. He will often run along the perimeter of the jungle area, or through specific, recurring paths. Try to cut him off by taking shortcuts through the denser parts of the foliage or by anticipating his next turn.
3. Grenade Traps: If you see him running towards a dead-end, a tight corner, or a narrow passage, throw a grenade ahead of him. The explosion will stun him briefly, causing him to fall to the ground and leaving him vulnerable for 1-2 seconds. This is your prime opportunity to get 2-3 shots in with your Handgun.
4. Environmental Awareness: The jungle has several small clearings, choke points, and areas with denser vegetation. Learn these areas. Running Man will often try to sprint through them. Position yourself strategically to intercept him. For example, there's a specific north-south path that he frequently uses; position yourself slightly off-center and throw a grenade as he approaches.
5. Avoid Direct Confrontation (Initially): Don't chase him head-on in open areas; you'll rarely catch him, and you'll waste stamina. Focus on anticipating his path and ambushing him.

Common Pitfalls in Phase 1:

• Wasting Ammo: Don't fire wildly. Only shoot when you have a clear line of sight and Running Man is momentarily vulnerable (e.g., after being stunned by a grenade or briefly pausing).
• Getting Lost: The jungle can be disorienting. Use your map frequently by pausing the game to understand the layout and predict Running Man's escape routes. Memorize key landmarks.
• Ignoring Damage: While his direct attacks are rare in this phase, he can still bump into you or perform quick melee jabs if you get too close, especially if you're trying to corner him. Keep an eye on your health.

Phase 2: Direct Engagement (60% - 25% Health)

After taking a certain amount of damage (approximately 40% of his health), Running Man will become more aggressive. He will still attempt to flee, but he will also actively try to engage you in close combat, using quick dashes and powerful kicks. This phase requires more precise aiming and evasive maneuvers.

Strategy for Phase 2:

1. Maintain Distance (When Possible): While he's more aggressive, his speed is still his greatest asset. Try to keep a medium distance to avoid his rapid melee attacks. If he gets too close, quickly roll or run away to create space.
2. Dodge and Counter: When he charges, quickly move out of the way (e.g., sidestep or roll). As he recovers from his dash or kick, he'll be vulnerable for a brief moment. This is your chance to fire 2-4 shots with your Handgun. Timing is crucial here.
3. Grenade Effectiveness: Grenades remain highly effective. If he's closing in, a well-placed grenade can stun him and give you breathing room, or even knock him down for a few free shots. Don't be stingy with them if you have a good opportunity.
4. Cornering and Trapping with C4: This is where C4 can shine. Identify one or two of his most frequently used escape paths or patrol routes. Place a C4 charge in a strategic location along that path. Lure him towards it, and when he's in range, detonate it. While C4 won't directly damage him significantly, the explosion will stun him for an extended period, allowing you to unload multiple Handgun shots.
5. Ration Management: This phase can be a war of attrition. Don't hesitate to use rations if your health drops below 50%. It's better to use one now than to risk a game over.

Running Man's Attacks in Phase 2:

• Dash Attack: He will sprint directly at Snake, dealing moderate damage if he connects. This is usually followed by a quick recovery. Listen for a distinct grunt before he initiates this.
• Spin Kick: A rapid, close-range attack that can knock Snake down, leaving you vulnerable for a follow-up. This is often used if you get too close.
• Hit-and-Run Melee: He might quickly run past Snake, delivering a punch or kick as he goes, then immediately continuing his sprint.

Phase 3: Desperation and Defeat (25% - 0% Health)

Once Running Man is critically wounded (around 20-25% health), he will become even more desperate. His attacks will be more frequent, and he will attempt to stay closer to Snake, relying on a flurry of melee strikes. However, his movements will also become slightly more predictable due to his desperation, and he will be less inclined to flee long distances.

Strategy for Phase 3:

1. Aggressive Evasion: Your priority is to avoid his relentless attacks. Circle around him, use quick sidesteps, and try to get behind him. He will often try to stay directly in front of you.
2. Unload Your Handgun: This is the time to be aggressive with your Handgun. Every shot counts. Aim for his back if possible, as it seems to deal slightly more damage, or at least provides a clearer shot. Don't worry about conserving ammo now.
3. Final Grenades: If you have any grenades left, use them to stun him and finish him off quickly. A direct hit from a grenade can often end the fight in this phase, especially if his health is very low.
4. Stay Calm: It can be tempting to panic when he's constantly attacking. Maintain your composure, focus on dodging, and only fire when you have a clear shot. A panicked Snake is a dead Snake.
5. Utilize Cover (Briefly): If you need a moment to reload or use a ration, try to briefly duck behind a thick tree or rock, but don't rely on it for long as he will quickly circle around.

Post-Battle Rewards:

After defeating Running Man, he will drop a crucial item. This is typically the Card Key Lv. 2, which is essential for progressing further into Outer Heaven and accessing new areas. Ensure you pick it up before leaving the jungle. Failure to do so will halt your progress.

Summary Table: Running Man Battle Phases

This table provides a quick reference for each phase of the Running Man boss fight.

Defeating Running Man is a test of patience, awareness, and quick reflexes. Master the art of the ambush and effective evasion, and you'll emerge victorious, ready to face the next challenges in Metal Gear 2: Solid Snake.