iDroid Menu Navigation

The iDroid is your indispensable multi-tool in the field, acting as your map, mission hub, and Mother Base management interface. Mastering its navigation is crucial for efficient operations and maximizing your tactical advantage. Access the iDroid at any time during gameplay by pressing the designated button (e.g., the Touchpad on PlayStation, View button on Xbox).

Key iDroid Sections & Functions

Upon opening the iDroid, you'll be presented with several main tabs. Use the L1/R1 (PlayStation) or LB/RB (Xbox) buttons to cycle through them.

Map Tab: This is your primary navigational tool.
- Zoom & Pan: Use the right analog stick to pan across the map and L2/R2 (PlayStation) or LT/RT (Xbox) to zoom in and out.
- Marking Targets: Crucially, you can mark objectives, enemies, and points of interest directly on the map. Hover over a location and press X (PlayStation) or A (Xbox) to place a marker. This marker will appear in your HUD in-game, guiding you.
- Information Overlay: Toggle various information overlays using the Square (PlayStation) or X (Xbox) button. This includes enemy patrol routes (after marking them with binoculars), resource locations, and mission objectives.
- Mission Objectives: Your current mission objectives are always displayed on the map. You can select different objectives to prioritize their display on your HUD.
Missions Tab: Here you manage your primary and side operations.
- Select Missions: Choose your next main mission or a Side Op from the available list. Note that some missions are locked until certain story progress or Mother Base development milestones are met.
- Mission Replay: Revisit previously completed missions to achieve higher ranks, complete optional objectives, or extract specific personnel.
- Mission Prep: Before deploying, review mission details, enemy intel, and recommended gear. This is vital for a successful sortie.
Mother Base Tab: This section is dedicated to the development and management of your private army.
- Staff Management: Assign personnel to various units (Combat, R&D, Support, Base Development, Medical, Intel) to boost their stats and unlock new capabilities. Prioritize assigning high-skill individuals to their appropriate units for maximum efficiency.
- Development: Research and develop new weapons, items, and upgrades for your gear. This is where you'll unlock crucial tools like the Fulton Recovery System upgrades, advanced suppressors, and better armor.
- Base Expansion: Construct new platforms for your Mother Base to increase staff capacity, unit levels, and resource storage. This requires GMP and resources like Minor Metal and Fuel Resources.
- Dispatch Missions: Send your Combat Unit soldiers on autonomous missions to earn GMP, resources, and recruit new staff. Carefully consider the mission's difficulty and your unit's strength to ensure success.
Database Tab: A repository of information.
- Cassette Tapes: Listen to important story exposition, character backstories, and intel briefings. Many crucial plot points are delivered via these tapes.
- Glossary: Review terms, characters, and events from the Metal Gear Solid universe.
- Tutorials: Revisit game mechanics and controls.

Efficient Navigation Strategies

Quick Marking: Always use your binoculars (hold L1/LB) to tag enemies and resources before opening the iDroid. This populates your map with crucial intel, making planning much easier.
Pre-Mission Review: Before deploying, always check the Missions tab for objective details and the Mother Base tab to ensure your R&D is progressing on vital equipment.
Resource Management: Periodically check the Mother Base tab to manage resources and assign new recruits. Neglecting this can slow down your development and limit your tactical options.
Map as a Planning Tool: Don't just use the map for navigation. Use it to identify enemy concentrations, plan infiltration routes, and pinpoint optimal extraction points for high-value targets.