In Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain, the inclusion of “Buddies” as AI companions enriches the gameplay by offering players a variety of tactical options and enhancing strategic flexibility during missions. Each buddy—D-Horse, D-Dog, D-Walker, and Quiet—has been uniquely designed to cater to different aspects of gameplay, thus accommodating various playstyles.

D-Horse
As the starting buddy, D-Horse serves primarily as a means of transportation across the expansive terrains of Afghanistan and Angola. His ability to be stealthily ridden allows players to maneuver around enemy lines with greater ease. Notably, D-Horse can defecate on command, which introduces a unique tactical element—vehicles driving through his waste may skid, disorienting their occupants. This unexpected interaction provides a creative defensive maneuver that can be exploited during missions, especially in high-risk scenarios where stealth is paramount.

D-Dog
D-Dog, who players meet as a puppy early in the game, becomes active on the battlefield after completing Mission 9. His mechanics focus on enhancing situational awareness; by automatically marking enemies and captured allies on the radar, D-Dog allows players to plan their movements more effectively. Additionally, he can actively distract soldiers, creating diversions that enable players to slip past or engage enemies without drawing immediate attention, which is vital for strategies requiring stealth.

D-Walker
Unlocked after Mission 13, D-Walker is a versatile robotic vehicle that serves dual purposes: it can be used for transportation as well as combat. With a unique stealth running mode that outpaces the player while minimizing noise, D-Walker encourages a more proactive approach. It can absorb damage that the player might face on foot, thus providing a layer of protection. However, players must be cautious, as D-Walker’s visibility can lead to increased detection probabilities. Although D-Walker can be armed for combat scenarios, it requires player commands to engage, making it less autonomous compared to other buddies.

Quiet
Quiet also becomes available after Mission 13, marking her emergence as one of the most potent buddies in the game. She operates with significant autonomy, seeking out vantage points and eliminating threats with her exceptional sniping capabilities. Quiet’s “Vanguard Sharpshooter” ability allows her to act independently, targeting enemies without needing direct instructions. This makes her an invaluable asset for players looking to engage in a more aggressive strategy while retaining the option for reconnaissance. Her presence transforms missions that might typically require stealth into opportunities for bold tactical maneuvers.

Conclusion
The interplay between these buddies allows players to tailor their gameplay experience significantly. D-Horse and D-Dog focus on support and mobility, whereas D-Walker offers heavy combat capabilities with a protective advantage, and Quiet excels in offensive tactics. As players engage more with these companions, their bond strengthens, further enhancing the capabilities of each buddy. This depth of interaction not only adds layers to gameplay but also encourages players to experiment with different strategies—leveraging each buddy’s skills in pursuit of mission objectives. Overall, the strategic depth offered by these companions highlights the careful design and thoughtful integration of AI in Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain.