Metal Gear Solid V’s DD is history’s greatest dog for history’s greatest soldier

Become a member of GB MAX to gain exclusive access to the industry and to the most influential global B2B leadership community in the business of gaming, entertainment, and tech. Join now and also get a VIP ticket to GamesBeat Next (Nov 2-3, SF).

From Sega’s Shadow Dancer to Call of Duty: Ghosts, gaming has had its share of trusty canine companions. After having completed Metal Gear Solid: The Phantom Pain, I can confidently say that Big Boss’ wolf dog companion, DD, is the most adorable, deadly, and useful “man’s best friend” ever conceived for a video game.

When compared to Big Boss’ other available Buddies, DD’s knife kills are more efficient than Quiet’s long-distance kills, he’s more endearing than D-Horse, and D-Walker is falls way behind in the personality contest. Metal Gear Solid V director Hideo Kojima knows the value of a lifelong bond with a pet, which is why adopting DD as a pup is the effective first step in a 100-hour long bond with one of the best gaming companions in recent years.

This gallery serves as a photo album of my many cherished moments with DD.