Metal Gear Solid: Stealth Techniques

Welcome to "Metal Gear Solid: Stealth Techniques," your ultimate guide to mastering the art of stealth in one of the most iconic video game franchises of all time. Whether you're a seasoned operative or a rookie trying to stay out of sight, this guide will provide you with everything you need to become a true stealth master. Dive into our comprehensive sections: Mastering Stealth Mechanics, where you'll learn the essentials of staying hidden; Using Gadgets Effectively, to make the most out of your high-tech tools; Managing Health and Resources, ensuring you're always ready for the next challenge; Key Locations to Use Stealth, highlighting the best spots to avoid detection; and Strategies for Enemy Encounters, offering foolproof techniques to outsmart your adversaries. Get ready to elevate your gameplay and enjoy Metal Gear Solid like never before!

Mastering Stealth Mechanics

Alright, so you’ve decided to tackle the legendary Metal Gear Solid series. Good choice! Stealth is the name of the game here, and while running and gunning might seem tempting, it probably won't get you far. Let’s dive into the essentials of sneaking past guards and avoiding detection like a pro.

Stay Low, Move Slow

First things first, get comfortable with crawling. You'll spend a lot of time on your belly or crouched low. Crawling helps you avoid making noise and keeps you out of sight, especially when coupled with shadows or tall grass. Use the environment to your advantage. If you're standing up, you’re an easy target. Stay low and blend in.

Use Your Tools

You've got a cool set of tools at your disposal. Here's a quick rundown of the essentials:

Cardboard Box: Your best friend. Seriously. It’s not just a meme--it’s a lifesaver. Use it to hide in plain sight. Guards are often too dumb to notice the box moving around.
Chaff Grenades: Got cameras and electronic systems bugging you? Toss one of these to temporarily disable them. Just be mindful of the limited supply.
N.V. Goggles: Night Vision can be super handy in dark areas where guards might be lurking. Always keep them ready.

Listen and Learn

Guards aren’t just for show--they follow real patrol routes and have conversations. Stand behind walls and eavesdrop on their chat. They’ll often spill useful hints about patrol schedules or hidden items. The better you understand their routines, the easier it is to slip past without detection.

Sound Matters

Noise is your enemy. Move slowly to avoid giving yourself away. Running or stomping around is a sure way to get caught. However, you can also use noise to your advantage, like luring guards away by tapping on walls or tossing items. They’ll investigate, leaving their post unguarded for you to sneak by.

Know When to Knock

Sometimes, you need to get past a tight spot. Knocking on walls can distract guards, making them check out the source of the sound. Take this opportunity to slip past them or take them down non-lethally.

Non-Lethal Takedowns

While taking down guards isn’t always necessary, sometimes it's inevitable. Your options include:

Chokehold: Sneak up from behind and choke them until they pass out.
Tranquilizer Gun: A less violent but effective way to knock out guards. Aim for the head for a faster takedown.

Remember, non-lethal methods usually score you more points and praise.

Monitor Your Detection Meter

Keep an eye on your detection meter. If you see it shifting from blue to yellow or red, it means you’re on the brink of being seen. Stop moving or find a better hiding spot ASAP.

Use Your Radar Wisely

Your radar is a crucial tool for spotting guards and planning your route. However, in certain difficulties, it might be disabled or limited. Rely on it when you can, but don’t become too dependent. Practice moving through areas while frequently checking the radar so you keep track of enemy positions without constantly peeking.

Save and Save Often

Finally, save your game frequently. Each successful stealth section completed means a chance to save yourself from having to redo it from scratch if things go south. It’s a simple tip, but crucial.

Practice Patience

The real secret to mastering stealth in Metal Gear Solid? Patience. Rushing only leads to mistakes. Take your time, plan each move, and enjoy the experience of becoming a stealth master.

Master these mechanics and you'll find yourself ghosting past guards like a true operative. Remember, it's not just about avoiding detection--it's about being one step ahead. Now, get out there and show them how stealth is really done!

Using Gadgets Effectively

In Metal Gear Solid, gadgets are your best friends. They help you sneak around, distract enemies, and survive hostile environments. Knowing how to use each tool can be the difference between watching a game over screen and pulling off the perfect stealth mission. Here’s a rundown on how to use these nifty gadgets to their max potential.

1. Soliton Radar

The Soliton Radar is your eyes on the battlefield. It shows enemy locations, their field of vision, and even moving objects like elevator doors. Here's how to make the most of it:

Stay Out of Sight: Always stay out of the enemy’s cone of vision shown on the radar. It’s like playing a game of “the floor is lava,” except the lava is the enemy's line of sight!
Observe Movement Patterns: Memorize patrol routes. Enemies tend to move in set patterns that you can exploit.
Plan Your Route: Use the radar to plan your movements carefully. Check for any moving obstacles and time your approach to avoid unwanted encounters.

2. Cardboard Box

The cardboard box is the most iconic gadget in the game. It’s simple but highly effective if used properly:

Hide in Plain Sight: Use the cardboard box to blend in with the environment. Stand still, and guards will pass you by without a second glance.
Transport Shortcuts: Some levels have conveyor belts. Place the box on a belt and let it transport you to another part of the facility faster and safer.
Avoid Repeated Use: Don’t rely too heavily on the box, though. If enemies see a moving box too often, they’ll get suspicious and investigate.

3. Chaff Grenades

Chaff grenades are essential for dealing with electronic devices, like security cameras and automated turrets:

Disable Electronics: Toss a Chaff Grenade to temporarily disable any cameras or turrets in the area, allowing you to pass unnoticed.
Plan the Timing: Make sure you have a clear path before throwing one, as the effect is short-lived.
Watch Your Step: Be careful when near disabled electronics; once the grenade's effect wears off, they will return to normal operations.

4. SOCOM Pistol with Suppressor

Your SOCOM pistol is your go-to firearm. When fitted with a suppressor, it becomes a quiet tool for eliminating threats:

Silent Takedowns: Use the silenced SOCOM to take out guards without alerting others. Aim for the head to ensure a quick and quiet takedown.
Disable Cameras: You can shoot out security cameras if you don't have Chaff Grenades, but be cautious as this may draw attention if another guard notices the destroyed camera.

5. Surveillance Camera

This gadget helps you see what’s around the corner without exposing yourself to danger:

Peek Safely: Use the Surveillance Camera to scout areas. This ensures you don’t walk into an ambush or get spotted by an enemy.
Locate Enemies: Sometimes, enemies hide in blind spots. Use the camera to spot them before they spot you.

6. Remote-Controlled Missiles

For tricky situations where you can’t get close to an enemy or a switch:

Destroy from Afar: Use these missiles to take out enemies or destroy objects from a distance. This is especially useful for hitting hard-to-reach targets.
Steer Carefully: Controlling the missile can be tricky. Maneuver it slowly and try to avoid crashing it into walls.
Stay Hidden: Firing a missile can reveal your location, so make sure you’re in a safe hiding spot before launching one.

Final Tips

Using gadgets effectively requires practice and patience. Here’s some final advice:

Experiment: Don’t hesitate to test gadgets in different scenarios to see what works best.
Conserve Resources: Gadgets are limited. Use them wisely and don’t waste them when it’s not necessary.
Combine Techniques: Often, the best approach is to combine different gadgets for a more effective strategy.

Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll master the art of stealth in no time. Remember, in Metal Gear Solid, being the smart and sneaky one is just as important as having the best gear. Happy sneaking!

Managing Health and Resources

In Metal Gear Solid, keeping an eye on your health and resources is key to surviving and successfully completing your missions. Here’s a detailed guide to help you manage both effectively.

Health Management

Your health is represented by a life bar that appears at the top left of the screen. If this bar empties, it's game over. Here’s how to keep it topped up:

Rations: These are your primary way of recovering health. You can find rations scattered around the game environment. Make sure to pick them up whenever you see them. To use a ration:
- Navigate to your inventory.
- Select the rations and press the use button.
- Alternatively, you can equip rations so they automatically heal you if your health hits zero.
Environmental Hazards: Avoid taking unnecessary damage from environmental traps and hostile elements. For example, avoid walking over tripwires or stepping on landmines. Always stay alert and proceed with caution in new areas.
Stealth vs. Combat: Engaging enemies head-on can lead to taking a lot of damage, so opt for stealth to reduce health loss. Stick to shadows, use noise as a distraction, and avoid direct confrontations as much as possible.

Resource Management

Properly managing your resources can make the difference between mission success and failure. Here’s a breakdown of key items and how to efficiently use them:

Ammunition: Bullets and other ammo types are finite. Here’s how to manage them:
- Conserve Ammo: Use silenced weapons or melee attacks to neutralize enemies quietly and save bullets.
- Search Thoroughly: Ammo can often be found in lockers, boxes, and dropped by enemies. Always explore areas extensively.
Weapons: Different weapons serve different purposes. Carry a balanced arsenal to tackle various situations:
- Silenced Pistols: Great for stealth kills.
- Assault Rifles: Useful for when things get loud.
- Special Weapons: Like stun grenades and C4, these are useful for specific scenarios. Use them wisely and sparingly.
Items and Gadgets: Utilize your items and gadgets effectively:
- Cardboard Box: Ingenious for evading enemies if used correctly.
- SOCOM Suppressor: Attach this to your SOCOM pistol to maintain stealth.
- Grenades: Use different types of grenades (stun, smoke, chaff) strategically to disable enemies and electronics.

Tips for Efficient Resource Management

Plan Your Routes: Before diving into enemy territory, study your map and plan an efficient route that minimizes enemy encounters and maximizes resource pickups.
Non-Lethal Tactics: Sometimes, taking the non-lethal approach can conserve ammo and other resources. Knock out enemies and hide their bodies instead of killing them.
Use Cover: Use the environment to your advantage. Hiding behind objects and using cover will reduce the damage you take and help you conserve health items.
Listen and Observe: Eavesdropping on enemy conversations can provide clues about item locations and storage rooms with useful supplies.

Conclusion

Managing health and resources in Metal Gear Solid requires a mix of strategy, exploration, and careful planning. Always think ahead, conserve where you can, and never pass up the opportunity to pick up valuable items. With these tips, you’ll stay healthier and better equipped to tackle whatever the game throws your way. Happy sneaking!

By focusing on health and resource management, you'll significantly improve your odds in Metal Gear Solid. Stay stealthy, plan ahead, and remember: sometimes the best fight is the one you avoid.

Key Locations to Use Stealth

Stealth is the name of the game in Metal Gear Solid. Knowing where to be sneaky can keep you alive and mission-ready. Here are some key locations where exercising stealth is super important.

1. Ventilation Shafts

These tight spaces aren't just for crawling through. Ventilation shafts are perfect for moving around without being seen. Enemies typically don’t look up, making them prime spots for sneaking. Also, it’s an excellent way to get the drop on unsuspecting guards, especially since they aren’t expecting someone to pop out of their ventilation system.

Tips

Move slowly to reduce noise.
Be ready to quickly dispatch any guards you see.
Keep an eye out for any items or equipment hidden within.

2. Storage Rooms

Storage rooms are often packed with crates and other items. This clutter is your best friend. By using these as cover, you can easily maintain a low profile. Guards usually patrol these areas but often don’t check behind every single box.

Tips

Stay low and move from cover to cover.
Use the sonar radar to track guard movements.
Patience is key--wait for the right moment to move.

3. Tall Grass and Bushes

In outdoor areas, tall grass and bushes offer ideal hiding spots. These natural elements blend seamlessly with your stealth suit, allowing you to move closer to enemies without being detected.

Tips

Crouch or lie down to maximize cover.
Use tranquilizer darts to silently take down guards if needed.
Avoid sudden movements to remain undetected.

4. Shadows

The game’s lighting mechanics mean that sticking to the shadows can often make you invisible to patrolling enemies. Dark corners and unlit hallways are perfect places to hide and plan your next move.

Tips

Turn off or shoot out lights to create more shadows.
Be aware of your own shadow, as it can sometimes give away your position.
Use NVGs (Night Vision Goggles) if applicable to see better in dark areas.

5. Underneath Vehicles

Vehicles like trucks and tanks not only provide great cover but also can be crawled under. This allows you to stay out of sight while still moving around. They are especially useful in outdoor areas with patrolling guards and searchlights.

Tips

Crawl slowly to maintain silence.
Look out for guards patrolling nearby before moving from one vehicle to another.
Watch out for moving vehicles to avoid getting run over.

6. Corridors with Security Cameras

Navigating corridors with security cameras can be tricky. However, sticking close to the walls and waiting for the cameras to look away can help you slip past unnoticed.

Tips

Use chaff grenades to temporarily disable cameras.
Memorize the camera’s movement patterns.
Utilize crawl spaces or alternate routes whenever possible.

7. Enemy Barracks

In barracks, guards are often relaxed and less vigilant, making this an excellent spot for stealthier approaches. Whether you're planting C4 or just trying to move past, stealth is crucial here.

Tips

Move when enemies are sleeping or distracted.
Use silenced weapons to avoid waking them.
Check for items lying around; barracks often have useful gear.

Mastering stealth in these key locations can make a huge difference in how smooth your mission runs. Remember, staying out of sight is often better than engaging in combat. Use these tips to become a ghost in the machine!

Metal Gear Solid: Stealth Techniques

Strategies for Enemy Encounters

When playing Metal Gear Solid, stealth is your best friend. Running into enemies head-on isn't usually the best idea. To help you get the upper hand in enemy encounters, we've rounded up some top strategies you need to know.

Know Your Environment

First off, get to know your surroundings. Use your in-game map and take note of where enemies are patrolling. Every time you enter a new area, spend a moment figuring out where you can hide. Look for lockers, under tables, and around corners.

Use Your Radar

Don't forget about your Soliton Radar! It shows you enemy positions, their field of vision, and even their walking routes. When an enemy is coming close, their vision cone will turn from green to yellow and then to red. Pay attention to the radar to avoid unnecessary conflicts.

Stick to Shadows and Crawl

Sticking to shadows can keep you hidden even when enemies are close. If you see an enemy approaching, hit the deck and crawl. Crawling not only keeps you out of sight but also reduces the noise you make. Remember, even small noises can attract attention.

Distract and Disable

You don't always have to go in guns blazing. Sometimes it's smarter to create distractions. Throw an Empty Magazine to make the noise that pulls enemies away from their posts. While they investigate, slip by unnoticed.

Another great method is the Chaff Grenade, which temporarily disables electronic equipment, including cameras and even some enemy radios. Use this to create a window of opportunity for passing through heavily monitored areas.

Silent Takedowns

If you must engage, go for a silent takedown. Sneak up behind an enemy and use CQC (Close Quarters Combat) to take them down quietly. This prevents other enemies from becoming alerted. But remember to hide the body afterwards to avoid detection.

Watch Their Patterns

Enemies in Metal Gear Solid follow specific patterns. Spend some time watching and memorizing these patterns. Once you know an enemy's routine, you can find the perfect moment to slip by or take them down without alarming others.

Use Your Tools

Make full use of your equipment. The Cardboard Box might seem like a silly item, but it's incredibly useful for sneaking around. You can also use the Mine Detector to avoid triggering enemy mines, and the Night Vision Goggles in dark areas.

Save Often

This might sound basic, but saving your game frequently is crucial. Metal Gear Solid can get tough, and you don’t want to lose a lot of progress. Save before trying something risky, so you can quickly reload if things go south.

Alright, that's it! By mastering these strategies, you'll handle enemy encounters like a pro. Remember, in Metal Gear Solid, patience and planning always pay off. Happy sneaking!

Mastering Stealth Mechanics

Stay Low, Move Slow

Use Your Tools

You've got a cool set of tools at your disposal. Here's a quick rundown of the essentials:

Cardboard Box: Your best friend. Seriously. It’s not just a meme--it’s a lifesaver. Use it to hide in plain sight. Guards are often too dumb to notice the box moving around.
Chaff Grenades: Got cameras and electronic systems bugging you? Toss one of these to temporarily disable them. Just be mindful of the limited supply.
N.V. Goggles: Night Vision can be super handy in dark areas where guards might be lurking. Always keep them ready.

Listen and Learn

Sound Matters

Know When to Knock

Non-Lethal Takedowns

While taking down guards isn’t always necessary, sometimes it's inevitable. Your options include:

Chokehold: Sneak up from behind and choke them until they pass out.
Tranquilizer Gun: A less violent but effective way to knock out guards. Aim for the head for a faster takedown.

Remember, non-lethal methods usually score you more points and praise.

Monitor Your Detection Meter

Keep an eye on your detection meter. If you see it shifting from blue to yellow or red, it means you’re on the brink of being seen. Stop moving or find a better hiding spot ASAP.

Use Your Radar Wisely

Save and Save Often

Finally, save your game frequently. Each successful stealth section completed means a chance to save yourself from having to redo it from scratch if things go south. It’s a simple tip, but crucial.

Practice Patience

The real secret to mastering stealth in Metal Gear Solid? Patience. Rushing only leads to mistakes. Take your time, plan each move, and enjoy the experience of becoming a stealth master.

Using Gadgets Effectively

1. Soliton Radar

The Soliton Radar is your eyes on the battlefield. It shows enemy locations, their field of vision, and even moving objects like elevator doors. Here's how to make the most of it:

Stay Out of Sight: Always stay out of the enemy’s cone of vision shown on the radar. It’s like playing a game of “the floor is lava,” except the lava is the enemy's line of sight!
Observe Movement Patterns: Memorize patrol routes. Enemies tend to move in set patterns that you can exploit.
Plan Your Route: Use the radar to plan your movements carefully. Check for any moving obstacles and time your approach to avoid unwanted encounters.

2. Cardboard Box

The cardboard box is the most iconic gadget in the game. It’s simple but highly effective if used properly:

Hide in Plain Sight: Use the cardboard box to blend in with the environment. Stand still, and guards will pass you by without a second glance.
Transport Shortcuts: Some levels have conveyor belts. Place the box on a belt and let it transport you to another part of the facility faster and safer.
Avoid Repeated Use: Don’t rely too heavily on the box, though. If enemies see a moving box too often, they’ll get suspicious and investigate.

3. Chaff Grenades

Chaff grenades are essential for dealing with electronic devices, like security cameras and automated turrets:

Disable Electronics: Toss a Chaff Grenade to temporarily disable any cameras or turrets in the area, allowing you to pass unnoticed.
Plan the Timing: Make sure you have a clear path before throwing one, as the effect is short-lived.
Watch Your Step: Be careful when near disabled electronics; once the grenade's effect wears off, they will return to normal operations.

4. SOCOM Pistol with Suppressor

Your SOCOM pistol is your go-to firearm. When fitted with a suppressor, it becomes a quiet tool for eliminating threats:

Silent Takedowns: Use the silenced SOCOM to take out guards without alerting others. Aim for the head to ensure a quick and quiet takedown.
Disable Cameras: You can shoot out security cameras if you don't have Chaff Grenades, but be cautious as this may draw attention if another guard notices the destroyed camera.

5. Surveillance Camera

This gadget helps you see what’s around the corner without exposing yourself to danger:

Peek Safely: Use the Surveillance Camera to scout areas. This ensures you don’t walk into an ambush or get spotted by an enemy.
Locate Enemies: Sometimes, enemies hide in blind spots. Use the camera to spot them before they spot you.

6. Remote-Controlled Missiles

For tricky situations where you can’t get close to an enemy or a switch:

Destroy from Afar: Use these missiles to take out enemies or destroy objects from a distance. This is especially useful for hitting hard-to-reach targets.
Steer Carefully: Controlling the missile can be tricky. Maneuver it slowly and try to avoid crashing it into walls.
Stay Hidden: Firing a missile can reveal your location, so make sure you’re in a safe hiding spot before launching one.

Final Tips

Using gadgets effectively requires practice and patience. Here’s some final advice:

Experiment: Don’t hesitate to test gadgets in different scenarios to see what works best.
Conserve Resources: Gadgets are limited. Use them wisely and don’t waste them when it’s not necessary.
Combine Techniques: Often, the best approach is to combine different gadgets for a more effective strategy.

Managing Health and Resources

In Metal Gear Solid, keeping an eye on your health and resources is key to surviving and successfully completing your missions. Here’s a detailed guide to help you manage both effectively.

Health Management

Your health is represented by a life bar that appears at the top left of the screen. If this bar empties, it's game over. Here’s how to keep it topped up:

Rations: These are your primary way of recovering health. You can find rations scattered around the game environment. Make sure to pick them up whenever you see them. To use a ration:
- Navigate to your inventory.
- Select the rations and press the use button.
- Alternatively, you can equip rations so they automatically heal you if your health hits zero.
Environmental Hazards: Avoid taking unnecessary damage from environmental traps and hostile elements. For example, avoid walking over tripwires or stepping on landmines. Always stay alert and proceed with caution in new areas.
Stealth vs. Combat: Engaging enemies head-on can lead to taking a lot of damage, so opt for stealth to reduce health loss. Stick to shadows, use noise as a distraction, and avoid direct confrontations as much as possible.

Resource Management

Properly managing your resources can make the difference between mission success and failure. Here’s a breakdown of key items and how to efficiently use them:

Ammunition: Bullets and other ammo types are finite. Here’s how to manage them:
- Conserve Ammo: Use silenced weapons or melee attacks to neutralize enemies quietly and save bullets.
- Search Thoroughly: Ammo can often be found in lockers, boxes, and dropped by enemies. Always explore areas extensively.
Weapons: Different weapons serve different purposes. Carry a balanced arsenal to tackle various situations:
- Silenced Pistols: Great for stealth kills.
- Assault Rifles: Useful for when things get loud.
- Special Weapons: Like stun grenades and C4, these are useful for specific scenarios. Use them wisely and sparingly.
Items and Gadgets: Utilize your items and gadgets effectively:
- Cardboard Box: Ingenious for evading enemies if used correctly.
- SOCOM Suppressor: Attach this to your SOCOM pistol to maintain stealth.
- Grenades: Use different types of grenades (stun, smoke, chaff) strategically to disable enemies and electronics.

Tips for Efficient Resource Management

Plan Your Routes: Before diving into enemy territory, study your map and plan an efficient route that minimizes enemy encounters and maximizes resource pickups.
Non-Lethal Tactics: Sometimes, taking the non-lethal approach can conserve ammo and other resources. Knock out enemies and hide their bodies instead of killing them.
Use Cover: Use the environment to your advantage. Hiding behind objects and using cover will reduce the damage you take and help you conserve health items.
Listen and Observe: Eavesdropping on enemy conversations can provide clues about item locations and storage rooms with useful supplies.

Conclusion

By focusing on health and resource management, you'll significantly improve your odds in Metal Gear Solid. Stay stealthy, plan ahead, and remember: sometimes the best fight is the one you avoid.

Key Locations to Use Stealth

Stealth is the name of the game in Metal Gear Solid. Knowing where to be sneaky can keep you alive and mission-ready. Here are some key locations where exercising stealth is super important.

1. Ventilation Shafts

Tips

Move slowly to reduce noise.
Be ready to quickly dispatch any guards you see.
Keep an eye out for any items or equipment hidden within.

2. Storage Rooms

Tips

Stay low and move from cover to cover.
Use the sonar radar to track guard movements.
Patience is key--wait for the right moment to move.

3. Tall Grass and Bushes

In outdoor areas, tall grass and bushes offer ideal hiding spots. These natural elements blend seamlessly with your stealth suit, allowing you to move closer to enemies without being detected.

Tips

Crouch or lie down to maximize cover.
Use tranquilizer darts to silently take down guards if needed.
Avoid sudden movements to remain undetected.

4. Shadows

Tips

Turn off or shoot out lights to create more shadows.
Be aware of your own shadow, as it can sometimes give away your position.
Use NVGs (Night Vision Goggles) if applicable to see better in dark areas.

5. Underneath Vehicles

Tips

Crawl slowly to maintain silence.
Look out for guards patrolling nearby before moving from one vehicle to another.
Watch out for moving vehicles to avoid getting run over.

6. Corridors with Security Cameras

Navigating corridors with security cameras can be tricky. However, sticking close to the walls and waiting for the cameras to look away can help you slip past unnoticed.

Tips

Use chaff grenades to temporarily disable cameras.
Memorize the camera’s movement patterns.
Utilize crawl spaces or alternate routes whenever possible.

7. Enemy Barracks

In barracks, guards are often relaxed and less vigilant, making this an excellent spot for stealthier approaches. Whether you're planting C4 or just trying to move past, stealth is crucial here.

Tips

Move when enemies are sleeping or distracted.
Use silenced weapons to avoid waking them.
Check for items lying around; barracks often have useful gear.

Metal Gear Solid: Stealth Techniques

Strategies for Enemy Encounters

Know Your Environment

Use Your Radar

Stick to Shadows and Crawl

Distract and Disable

Silent Takedowns

Watch Their Patterns

Use Your Tools

Save Often

Alright, that's it! By mastering these strategies, you'll handle enemy encounters like a pro. Remember, in Metal Gear Solid, patience and planning always pay off. Happy sneaking!