Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker
Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker

CQC (Close Quarters Combat) — Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker Guide

Learn Close Quarters Combat (CQC) techniques in Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker to silently neutralize enemies, gather intel, and recruit soldiers.

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CQC (Close Quarters Combat)

Close Quarters Combat (CQC) is an indispensable skill in Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker, allowing you to neutralize enemies silently, gather intel, and even recruit soldiers for Mother Base. Mastering CQC is crucial for achieving S-ranks and efficiently managing your resources. This section will detail the various CQC techniques and strategies.

Basic CQC Maneuvers

CQC is initiated by approaching an enemy and pressing the CQC button (typically R on PSP, or the equivalent mapped button). The outcome depends on your proximity, timing, and the enemy's awareness.

  • CQC Slam/Throw: When an enemy is unaware, approach them and press R. Snake will grab them and slam them to the ground, knocking them out instantly. This is a quick and effective way to neutralize single targets.
  • CQC Hold-Up: While holding an enemy with R, you can aim your weapon (hold L) at their head. This will initiate a hold-up. The enemy will surrender, allowing you to interrogate them for intel or recruit them. Be quick, as they may try to resist if you take too long.
  • CQC Chokehold: After grabbing an enemy with R, repeatedly tap R to apply a chokehold. This will slowly render the enemy unconscious. It's quieter than a slam but takes longer. Useful for maintaining stealth in crowded areas.
  • CQC Knife Attack: If you have a knife equipped (unlocked later in the game), pressing R while close to an enemy will perform a quick, silent knife attack, instantly killing them. This is a lethal option for when stealth takedowns are not a priority or when facing heavily armored foes.

Advanced CQC Techniques

Beyond the basics, several advanced CQC applications can greatly enhance your mission efficiency.

Interrogation and Recruitment

Interrogation is a key aspect of CQC, providing valuable information and opportunities for recruitment.

  1. Initiate Hold-Up: Grab an enemy with R, then aim your weapon at their head by holding L.
  2. Interrogate: While holding them up, press the Action button (Triangle) to interrogate. They will often reveal locations of items, other soldiers, or mission objectives.
  3. Recruit: After interrogating, you'll have the option to recruit them. Press the Action button (Triangle) again to recruit. The soldier will be sent to your Mother Base via the Fulton Recovery System (if unlocked and equipped).
  4. Knock Out/Kill: If you don't wish to recruit or need to clear the area, you can then either knock them out with a CQC slam or kill them with a knife or gunshot.

CQC Chain

The CQC Chain is a powerful technique for neutralizing multiple enemies in quick succession. This is particularly effective in areas with patrols of 2-3 soldiers.

  1. Prerequisite: To perform a CQC Chain, you must have at least two enemies in close proximity. Your CQC skill level (determined by your current uniform and character stats) also influences the effectiveness and range of the chain.
  2. Initiate: Approach the first enemy and press R to perform a CQC slam.
  3. Chain Attack: Immediately after the first slam, if another enemy is within range, a prompt will appear (often a quick flash of the R button). Press R again quickly to chain into a slam on the second enemy.
  4. Continue the Chain: You can continue this for up to three enemies, provided they are close enough and you react quickly to the prompts.

Strategy Tip: Practice the timing for the CQC Chain in the "Training" missions available from Mother Base. Look for areas like the "Outer Ops" training ground to get a feel for enemy spacing.

CQC Counter

When an enemy attempts a melee attack on you, a quick CQC Counter can turn the tables.

  • Execution: As an enemy lunges to attack you with a melee strike, press R just before their attack connects. Snake will parry their attack and perform a counter-slam, knocking them out.
  • Timing is Key: This requires precise timing. Too early or too late, and you'll take damage. Listen for enemy grunts or watch for their attack animation to anticipate the counter window.

CQC and Equipment

Certain items and uniforms can enhance your CQC capabilities:

  • Uniforms:
    • Sneaking Suit: Often provides a bonus to CQC range and speed, making chains easier to execute.
    • Battle Dress: While not directly enhancing CQC, its defensive capabilities allow for more aggressive CQC approaches if you anticipate taking hits.
  • Fulton Recovery System: Essential for recruiting soldiers after a CQC hold-up and interrogation. Ensure you have enough Fulton Balloons equipped before missions where recruitment is a priority.
  • Stun Grenades/Chaff Grenades: Can be used to momentarily stun or disorient groups of enemies, making it easier to approach and initiate CQC on multiple targets without being detected.

CQC in Boss Battles

While CQC is primarily for infantry, some boss encounters, particularly against human bosses, can involve CQC elements. Pay attention to their attack patterns; some bosses can be briefly stunned or vulnerable to a quick CQC strike after certain attacks, opening them up for more significant damage.

Mastering CQC is not just about stealth; it's about efficiency, resource management, and controlling the battlefield. Practice these techniques, and you'll find yourself a much more effective operative.