Fulton Recovery System — Metal Gear Solid: Portable Ops Guide

Fulton Recovery System

The Fulton Recovery System is your primary method for recruiting new soldiers into your ranks in Metal Gear Solid: Portable Ops. Mastering its use is crucial for building a strong, diverse team capable of tackling the game's increasingly difficult missions. Unlike later installments, the Fulton in Portable Ops is a more direct, on-the-spot recovery tool.

How to Use the Fulton

To successfully recover an enemy soldier, follow these steps:

1. Incapacitate the Target: You must first render the enemy unconscious or put them to sleep.
   • Non-Lethal Weapons: The most effective way to do this is by using non-lethal weaponry.
     • The Mk. 22 Hush Puppy (tranquilizer pistol) is your bread and butter for this. Aim for headshots for quicker incapacitation.
     • Mosin Nagant (tranquilizer sniper rifle) is excellent for long-range takedowns, especially for high-value targets.
     • Stun Grenades can knock out multiple enemies in a small radius, but be careful not to alert others.
   • CQC (Close Quarters Combat): Sneak up on an enemy and perform a CQC throw or choke. This is silent and effective but requires close proximity.
2. Locate the Fulton: Once the enemy is incapacitated, approach their body. You will see a prompt to use the Fulton.
3. Deploy the Fulton: Press the indicated button (typically the Action button) to attach the Fulton balloon to the unconscious soldier. A short animation will play as the balloon inflates and lifts the soldier away.

Fulton Recovery Strategies

Maximizing your Fulton recoveries will significantly impact your game progression. Here are some advanced strategies:

• Prioritize High-Skill Soldiers: Not all soldiers are created equal. When you knock out an enemy, their stats (Combat, Medical, Intel, Tech) are displayed. Prioritize soldiers with high stats in areas your team is lacking, or those with unique abilities.
  • Combat Specialists: Essential for your combat unit and for leading missions.
  • Medical Staff: Crucial for healing injured soldiers and developing new medical items.
  • Intel Operatives: Improve your radar and provide valuable mission information.
  • Tech Engineers: Speed up weapon development and improve equipment.
• Stealth is Key: Using the Fulton is not a silent operation. The balloon's ascent can alert nearby enemies.
  • Always ensure the area is clear of patrols before deploying a Fulton.
  • Consider recovering soldiers in secluded areas or after clearing out a small section of the map.
  • Smoke Grenades can provide temporary cover if you need to recover a soldier in a more exposed location.
• Supply Drop Points: In some missions, you'll find designated "Supply Drop Points." Recovering soldiers from these points can sometimes yield better quality recruits or unique characters. Keep an eye out for these on your map.
• Boss Fights: Certain boss characters can be recovered via Fulton after you defeat them non-lethally. These often yield powerful, unique soldiers with exceptional stats. Always attempt non-lethal takedowns on bosses if you want to recruit them.
• Managing Your Team Size: While it's tempting to recruit everyone, remember that your Mother Base has a limited capacity. Regularly check your team roster and dismiss lower-skilled soldiers to make room for superior recruits.

By effectively utilizing the Fulton Recovery System, you'll build a formidable army and unlock new possibilities for weapon development, mission strategies, and overall success in Metal Gear Solid: Portable Ops.