Mastering Gako Hunting in Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater

Embarking on the quest to discover all 64 elusive Gako figures within the immersive world of Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater presents a significant challenge for any dedicated player. These camouflaged avian statues are notoriously difficult to spot, often blending seamlessly into their surroundings, even within seemingly confined areas. From the intricate labyrinth of Ocelot's battleground to the pulse-pounding, high-octane motorcycle pursuit, their cunningly concealed placements demand sharp observational skills and strategic planning. This comprehensive guide serves as an invaluable resource, meticulously detailing each Gako's whereabouts and offering crucial advice to ensure successful collection, thereby enhancing your in-game achievements and unlocking special rewards like the AT-Camo.

The journey begins in the initial stages of the game, with specific Gako locations becoming accessible only after obtaining a firearm in Rassvet. Players must exercise caution and be aware of distinct 'points of no return' throughout the narrative, which prevent backtracking to previously visited areas. For instance, the encounter with Sokolov in Rassvet marks one such critical juncture, rendering prior areas inaccessible. Consequently, it's imperative to systematically gather all Gakos within a region before progressing further. Early areas like Dremuchij South, Dremuchij Swampland, Dremuchij North, and Dolinovodno each harbor hidden Gakos, often perched on elevated rocks, nestled amidst foliage, or resting on logs. The factory in Rassvet also conceals one on a shelf, facing away from the player, demanding a keen eye for detail.

As the narrative unfolds and players advance to new territories, the hunt for Gakos continues with renewed intensity. Dremuchij East, Chyornyj Prud, and various sections of Bolshaya Past introduce more cunningly hidden figures. For example, one Gako in Dremuchij East is tucked away under a fallen tree, while another in Chyornyj Prud is found on a tree branch extending over water. The diverse environments, ranging from open swamps to dense forests and industrial bases, each house their unique set of challenges. Entering Bolshaya Past Crevice, for instance, triggers a boss battle that not only presents a formidable foe but also features a cleverly placed Gako within the arena itself, requiring quick thinking and precise action during combat.

Further into the game, players will navigate the treacherous Chornaya Peschera caves, uncovering Gakos near waterfalls, within hidden ledges, and even near glowing mushrooms. Subsequently, areas like Ponizovje, Graniny Gorki, Svyatogornyj, and Sokrovenno offer their own arrays of hidden ducks, often demanding careful exploration of ledges, rooftops, and tree canopies. The Graniny Gorki Lab, with its multiple floors and intricate design, provides several challenging Gako placements, including one within the courtyard's window frame and others on bookshelves and terminal rooms. The arduous climb through Krasnogorje, encompassing tunnels, mountain bases, and mountaintops, conceals Gakos in difficult-to-reach spots such as pipes, rocky outcrops, and ruined structures.

A particularly challenging segment arises during the high-speed chase sequences, where Gakos must be targeted while moving rapidly. These instances often require precise aiming and strategic use of weapons like sniper rifles or RPGs due to the distance and dynamic environment. Key locations during these chases include various points in Groznyj Grad, such as towers, barrels, runway markers, and rail bridges. The game design here necessitates frequent manual saves, allowing players to retry these demanding sections until all Gakos are successfully collected. The final few Gakos are located in Zaozyorje West, Zaozyorje East, and the climactic boss arena in Rokovoj Bereg, often requiring players to look down ravines, on ledges, or within tree canopies.

Successfully locating all 64 Gako figures is a testament to a player's dedication and keen observation, signifying a deep engagement with the game's intricate world and rewarding their persistence with in-game titles and possibly special unlockables. This detailed guide ensures that no Gako remains undiscovered, helping players achieve complete mastery over the collectible challenges presented in Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater.