September 3, 1998 - PlayStation's finest hour may have just come and gone in Japan. Metal Gear Solid, the game many believe will set an insurmountable paradigm for PlayStation software, officially found its way onto store shelves today.

Reports of the game shipping early have been circulating since late last week, but today's the day it arrived in full force. Konami's much sought-after (and collectibles-laden) premium package also found its way into stores, but was gone almost before shop-keeps could crack open the shipping containers.

Import dealers across the US are expected to receive their shipments of the game by next Monday. Expect it to ring up in the $60-$70 range depending on where you shop.

IGNPSX will have a full report on the Japanese release of Metal Gear Solid soon. Be sure to visit our full preview on the game for the story so far.