There has been no mention why this has happened but Konami has sent out a memo stating that all the official Japanese launch parties for Metal Gear Solid 4 have been cancelled.
The bad Google translation goes as follows
“Dear Customers:
Notice of Event CancellationWe are deeply grateful for all the special attention and fan-base that our company have been receiving.
Due to various reasons, the “METAL GEAR SOLID 4 GUNS OF THE PATRIOTS” launch memorial event which was to be held on June 12 at 3 different locations within the Tokyo area, has been canceled.
We apologize to the customers who were looking forward to this event, and also ask for your understanding.
-June 10, Konami Digital Entertainment Corp.”
So why was it cancelled? My guess is that enough stores have signalled that they would be having a midnight launch and Konami could no longer justify the cost of these parties to the bean counters…
Source: Konami.jp
Last Updated: June 11, 2008
Etienne Vlok
June 11, 2008 at 07:39
Actually, I think it has to do with the guy who completely flipped out and stabbed 7 people to death in the area of Tokyo where all the games/electronics shops are.
http://www.news24.com/News24/World/News/0,,2-10-1462_2337842,00.html
Janrik
June 11, 2008 at 07:57
So GTA spoiled the MGS launch? 🙂
I recon you are right.
JimBob
June 11, 2008 at 08:12
It is because of the murders…
http://kotaku.com/5015253/konami-cancels-japanese-mgs4-launch-event
darthdad
June 11, 2008 at 08:14
The bottom of the barrel….. 😆
David
June 11, 2008 at 13:08
I DON’t like this game I really dont.
MaXiM
June 12, 2008 at 01:01
Then don’t buy or play it 🙂 There are plenty other games out there….