Potentially allowing gamers to "play" the game without actually playing it

The 3DS is set to offer handheld gamers a variety of functionalities that were previously unavailable. It's easy for the 3D visuals to be stealing the limelight, but what about things like StreetPass? How will developers utilise this subtle yet intriguing feature?

Since the unveiling of the Metal Gear Solid 3 tech demo at E3 earlier this year, very little has been revealed about what kind of content Metal Gear Solid: Snake Eater 3D will actually provide for gamers. Series creator Hideo Kojima has made it clear that the game is based off Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater and so any narrative strands mustn't contradict the timeline and events of the Metal Gear Solid universe. The game will be more of a revisit to a past instalment, with emphasis on co-op, 3D, and portable-like elements.

As part of the Nintendo Conference last month, Kojima delivered a video message (transcribed by Gpara.com) that suggested the game might be making use of the 3DS StreetPass feature as a way of connecting players with each other:

In Metal Gear Solid Snake Eater, we believe the feeling of actually hiding in the shadows and other such areas will have even more impact with 3D video. We're also looking into using StreetPass functionality for exchanging data with other players even when you're not playing the game.

It's still not known whether Kojima will be directing the 3DS instalment or not, but he seems to have a clear vision of how the game should present itself. We'll have to wait and see.