A PlayStation shooter once included a U.S. military MRE as a bonus, proving once again that physical formats of the past had unparalleled charm. In the United States, the physical edition of SOCOM: Combined Assault came with an MRE endorsed by Sony itself.
Two decades ago, physical video games were something special. Beyond the absence of widespread internet access and minimal digital marketing outside major regions, publishers often went the extra mile with eye-catching covers and titles. The packaging itself became a collector’s item, featuring booklets with expanded lore or game instructions. Yet one game took it to the next level by including a military MRE with its PS2 version: the last SOCOM game on the platform.
Reddit user shinseiromeo discovered that the PS2 disc for SOCOM: Combined Assault came with a promotional 2006-dated Meal Ready-to-Eat (MRE). These ready-to-eat meals are prepared for the U.S. Armed Forces, though other nations, like Spain, also produce their own combat rations. What sets this MRE apart is its branding, featuring logos for Sony Interactive Entertainment, Zipper Interactive, and SOCOM: Combined Assault itself.
Going through my attic and found an old SOCOM snack pack / MRE still sealed from 2006.
byu/shinseiromeo ingaming
What’s inside? While the Reddit user hasn’t opened the pack—or at least hasn’t shared its contents—online searches reveal that U.S. MRE number 107 is a supplemental pack rather than a full meal. It includes a cereal bar and a lemon-lime drink powder for replenishing electrolytes.
The discovery has sparked debate: should the MRE be opened and its contents experienced, or preserved as a trophy of gaming history? Some suggest sending it to the popular YouTube channel Steve1989MREInfo, known for testing vintage rations. “If he doesn’t open it on a stainless steel tray, I’ll be disappointed,” joked one user, echoing the collective curiosity surrounding this rare find.
Could SOCOM Make a Comeback?
Beyond the nostalgic packaging, this discovery has reignited discussions about SOCOM’s future. Many fans have taken the opportunity to urge Sony to revive the franchise, which left its mark with tactical campaigns and multiplayer modes. “If this MRE can generate this much excitement, imagine what a new game could do,” one fan commented on Reddit. Though the series has been dormant since the PS3’s SOCOM Special Forces, it remains beloved by players. For now, with its original studios closed, the fate of the IP remains uncertain.
Source: 3djuegos
