Metal Gear Solid Online confirmed

Whilst the hype for the highly anticipated Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots continues, Konami has unveiled a brand new additional to the franchise – Metal Gear Solid Online.

As reported by Kotaku, the PS3 game will see up to 16 players stealthing it about in an assortment of environments that appear to be brand new to the series. Screenshots can be seen at the official website.

In addition, Konami has stated that a closed beta test will run from August 20th to September 3rd, which will see 3,000 players get to grips with the title. It is presumed to be a Japan-only venture, but with no official confirmation the chance remains that European gamers might get a look in.

For the moment Metal Gear Solid Online, much like MGS4, remains a PS3 exclusive. But with ongoing rumour and speculation about the possibility of an Xbox 360 port, a multi-format announcement could yet materialise.