First Metal Gear Online expansion on July 17

Gene Expansion to include new maps, characters and a game mode.

Konami has today announced the July 17 release of the first Metal Gear Online expansion. Entitled Metal Gear Online Gene Expansion, the DLC will cost 9.99 Euro and will include new maps, characters and a game mode.

New maps include Coppertown Conflict which boasts wide, open streets; Tombs of Tubes, described as a labyrinth of underground passages; and Virtuous Vistas, a sprawling outdoor location suited to medium and long-range combat.

The new game mode is called Survival and tasks players with the goal to stay alive for as long as possible within a series of increasingly challenging stages. Also new is a reward shop in which accrued points can be traded for new gear.

Additions to the character roster include Meryl and Johnny, both of which will offer players unique skills. The expansion also includes the ability to create female soldiers.

"Konami is committed to the evolution of Metal Gear Online, and this first expansion pack illustrates the ways the game can be enhanced with new stages, characters and modes," said Christopher Heck, European Brand Manager for Konami Digital Entertainment GmbH. "The new update represents terrific value for money, and will be followed by additional add-ons in the coming months designed to keep Metal Gear Online fans enthralled with the new possibilities they will bring."

The expansion will be available to download from the Metal Gear Online store from July 17.