Citing an unnamed source, Kotaku reports that the upcoming game in the famed series--this time an action title, starring the character Raiden--will launch in 2012. Although a release window was never officially revealed, some had hoped for a 2011 release. However, history tells us that Metal Gear Solid titles are often the subject of a few delays.

Gameplay for the title was first revealed during Microsoft's E3 2010 media briefing, featuring intense sword combat where Raiden would slice and dice his adversaries, the world around him, and rabble-rousing fruit.

Shacknews has contacted Konami for comment regarding the report but has yet to hear back at the time of publishing.