Skip to content
M34
Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain

M34

Master M34: Backup, Back Down (Extreme) in Metal Gear Solid V! Learn how to tackle armored vehicles and tough enemies without Reflex Mode. Get the edge you need!

By ···10 min read·Multi-source verified
1 reading this guide  

Master M34: Backup, Back Down (Extreme) in Metal Gear Solid V! Learn how to tackle armored vehicles and tough enemies without Reflex Mode. Get the edge you need!

Alright, let's talk about M34: Backup, Back Down on Extreme difficulty in Metal Gear Solid V. This mission is pretty much the same as the original version, but with a nasty twist: enemies hit WAY harder. Direct combat is a death sentence here, so you'll want to rely on your wits and your gear.

The good news is you've got all your tools and Buddies at your disposal, just no Chicken Hat or Reflex Mode. That means no last-second dodges when things get hairy. You'll need to be proactive!

Mission Tasks:

#Mission TaskMandatory/Optional
1Eliminated an armored vehicle.Mandatory
2Eliminated multiple fighting vehicles or gunships.Optional
3Eliminated all armored vehicles without receiving a resupply or fire support.Optional
4Secured the weapon carried by a transport truck.Optional
5Extracted an armored vehicle.Optional
6Extracted the four soldiers searching for the escaped prisoner.Optional
7Extracted six prisoners.Optional
8Extracted three tanks.Optional

Strategy & Tips:

  • Use Your Vehicle and D-Horse: Don't be afraid to use your own vehicle or D-Horse to block the enemy vehicles. It won't stop them forever – they'll eventually blow up your ride or spook your horse – but it buys you precious time.
  • Avoid Direct Combat: Seriously, don't try to go toe-to-toe with these guys. The increased damage means you'll be downed in seconds. Use cover, flanking, and your equipment to your advantage.
  • Prioritize Objectives: Focus on the mandatory objective first. The optional objectives are great for rewards, but only go for them if you're confident you can do so without jeopardizing the main mission. Extracting prisoners or tanks can be risky.
  • Gear Up: Make sure you've got good anti-vehicle weapons if you plan on taking them down directly. Rocket launchers or heavy machine guns are your friends here. If you're going for extraction, make sure your Fulton system is upgraded.
  • Watch Out for Reinforcements: Be aware that the enemy might call in reinforcements, especially if you're taking too long or drawing too much attention. Keep an eye on your surroundings and be ready to reposition.
  • No Reflex Mode: This is the big one. You can't rely on that slow-motion safety net anymore. Every engagement needs to be planned, and every shot counts. Stay calm and methodical.

100% Human-Written. AI Fact-Checked. Community Verified. Learn how AntMag verifies content