Rankings & S-Ranks

Rankings & S-Ranks

Achieving an S-Rank in Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker missions is the ultimate display of skill and efficiency. While the exact parameters can vary slightly between mission types, a core set of rules applies to nearly all S-Rank attempts. Mastering these will not only earn you bragging rights but also unlock valuable rewards and personnel for Mother Base.

Core S-Rank Requirements

For most missions, especially Main Ops and Extra Ops that involve infiltrating enemy territory, these are the golden rules:

• No Kills: This is paramount. Lethal takedowns will almost always disqualify you from an S-Rank. Focus on non-lethal methods such as CQC slams, tranquilizer rounds (MK22, Mosin Nagant, M1911 Custom), or stun grenades.
• No Alerts: Remaining completely undetected is crucial. An alert state, even if quickly resolved, will typically prevent an S-Rank. use cover, stealth camouflage (if available), and careful enemy observation.
• Fast Completion Time: Speed is a significant factor. While not always the sole determinant, completing a mission quickly often compensates for minor imperfections or pushes you over the S-Rank threshold. Knowing enemy patrol routes and objective locations beforehand is key.

Mission-Specific Strategies for S-Ranks

Infiltration & Combat Missions (e.g., Main Ops, Extra Ops with enemy patrols)

These missions are the most straightforward in their S-Rank requirements:

• Loadout: Prioritize non-lethal weapons. The MK22 Hush Puppy tranquilizer pistol and the Mosin Nagant tranquilizer sniper rifle are your best friends. For close encounters, CQC is highly effective. Consider bringing Stun Grenades for groups or Smoke Grenades for quick escapes or cover.
• Pathing: Plan your route to avoid as many enemies as possible. Use the environment for cover and elevation. Learn enemy patrol patterns and exploit gaps.
• Fulton Recovery: Fulton any high-ranking soldiers you incapacitate. While not directly tied to S-Rank, it's efficient use of your time during a fast run and benefits Mother Base.
• Item Usage: Minimize item usage where possible, but don't hesitate to use items like Cardboard Boxes for stealth or Ration/Curry for health if absolutely necessary.

Vehicle Combat Missions (e.g., Tank, APC, Helicopter Battles)

These missions have slightly different S-Rank criteria due to their nature:

• No Kills (Crew): While you'll be destroying the vehicle, the S-Rank still demands that you incapacitate the crew non-lethally. This is achieved by damaging the vehicle until the commander and crew emerge.
• Non-Lethal Crew Takedowns: Once the crew emerges, quickly switch to your non-lethal weapons (e.g., MK22, Mosin Nagant) and tranquilize them. You can also use Supply Markers to call in a supply drop directly on their position for a quick stun, or use Stun Grenades.
• Fast Completion Time: Speed is even more critical here. Equip powerful anti-vehicle weapons like the Carl Gustav (M2), FIM-43 Redeye, or even the M47 Dragon. Upgrade these weapons as much as possible.
• Alerts: In vehicle combat missions, being spotted by the vehicle itself does not typically count as an "alert" in the same way as being spotted by a foot soldier. However, it will make the mission harder as the vehicle will actively engage you. Focus on quickly disabling the vehicle's offensive capabilities and then taking out the crew.
• Support Strikes: use Strike Markers for air support (e.g., Airstrike, Bombing Run) to deal massive damage to the vehicle. Coordinate with co-op partners for maximum efficiency if playing online.

Monster Hunter Missions (e.g., Rathalos, Tigrex, Gear Rex)

These unique Extra Ops missions also have their own S-Rank considerations:

• No Kills: Similar to vehicle battles, you're not "killing" the monster in the traditional sense. Instead, you're aiming to capture it.
• Capture Method: To capture a monster, you must first deal enough damage to make it vulnerable. Once it's limping or showing signs of weakness, deploy Tranq Bombs or use Tranq Rounds from your weapons. The goal is to put it to sleep.
• Fast Completion Time: Again, speed is key. Equip high-damage weapons like the M60, M134 Gatling Gun, or powerful rocket launchers. Upgrade these weapons to their maximum level.
• Teamwork (Co-op): These missions are significantly easier to S-Rank with a well-coordinated co-op team. Assign roles (e.g., one player focuses on damage, another on tranquilizing).
• Item Usage: Bring plenty of health items (Ration, Curry, First Aid Kit) and stamina items (Zomie, Soma). Also, bring Supply Markers to replenish ammo for your heavy weapons.

General Tips for Consistent S-Ranks

• Practice: Replaying missions is the best way to learn enemy placements, patrol routes, and optimal strategies.
• Intel: Always check the mission briefing for any specific objectives or enemy types.
• Mother Base Development: Invest heavily in your R&D team to unlock and upgrade powerful non-lethal and anti-vehicle weapons. A strong Medical team will also help with recovery items.
• CQC Expertise: Master CQC. It's silent, non-lethal, and can quickly take down multiple enemies.
• Stealth Camouflage: Once unlocked, the Stealth Camo is a game-changer for S-Ranks, allowing you to bypass many stealth challenges. However, it often requires a high R&D level and can consume battery quickly.
• Co-op Play: For many of the harder missions, especially vehicle and monster battles, playing with skilled co-op partners can drastically reduce completion times and make S-Ranks much more attainable.

By adhering to these guidelines and adapting your strategy to each mission type, you'll be well on your way to earning a perfect S-Rank on every mission in Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker!