@ Topher: The reason why the series has had such a powerful reception, is the story (obviously).
The thing that made MGS3 so powerful, was the "ooo's" and "ahhh's" when it filled gaps in the story, thus leaving more room for MGS4 to fill in those gaps.
It is fact that MGS3 came before in timeline, to MGS1 and 2. But in MGS1, Snake is sent to kill Big boss. MGS3 addresses Big Bosses backstory, and also makes some mentions as well provides info on the
patriots (MGS2).
As my example before. The movie pulp-fiction, if you've seen it. Basically, the movie scenes are in random order, but as it progresses...fills in the gaps. Hard to explain, but it's the only example I have, which is quite similar to the MGS seris.
Star Wars on the other hand, is different, because George Lucas purposely called 4,5,6......4,5,6 to leave room in the future, to make the backstory of DV(Darth Vader) etc.
Sorry for my previous comments, I did in fact mis-interpret your comment "do you have any proof" as you being difficult / annoying. As you explained, you were simply asking. Clearly a misunderstanding.
Anyways, if your looking for 'official' information, you can search various MGS sources and fansites, i'm sure they'll have more insight to that.
Take care and have fun,
~J-San
27/07/2008
Melbourne, Victoria