As the protagonist, Snake (later known as Big Boss) is your primary playable character for most missions. He possesses balanced stats across all categories, making him versatile. His unique abilities include:

- CQC Master: Snake has unparalleled CQC skills, allowing for quick and efficient non-lethal takedowns.
- High Stamina: He generally has higher stamina than most recruits, allowing for longer sprints and more CQC maneuvers.
- Leadership: Snake's presence often boosts the morale of his team members.
- Unique Skills: As you progress, Snake may gain access to unique skills or equipment that only he can use.
While you can deploy other soldiers, Snake is often the most reliable choice for critical missions due to his superior combat prowess and stealth capabilities. Focus on equipping him with your best gear and utilizing his CQC for efficient enemy neutralization and recruitment.