Next-Gen.biz recently got some hands-on time with Metal Gear Online, which goes into beta next month. Metal Gear Solid 4 will include a starter pack, but the full game will be a separate product either through DLC or retail.

The game will support up to 16 players and features the following confirmed game modes:

• Deathmatch
• Team Deathmatch
• Capture the Flag
• Flag Defense
• Base-Capture

Hit the cut for information about auto-aim and character customization.

Auto-aim is in the game, but don't panic. It'll only be useful at close range. This should alleviate having to rush into first-person when someone is two feet in front of you. However, it'll be useless at long range and first-person aiming will be more accurate.

Characters can be customized in both appearance and skills. Your characters abilities are determined by 4 skills, which mimics Call of Duty 4's Perk system, but each skill will actually level up over time.

Check out the their hands-on here and watch this trailer from TGS 2007.