I can understand not liking Metal Gear Solid, but aside from some references in both games to the other (like the night-vision googles), I never understood why comparing it to the Splinter Cell franchise. Despite both technically being espionage games, in one you go around Kinshasa killing black people and in the other, taking down 25 big tanks armed with nuclear capabilities at the same time.
Different games, different playstyles, different plot and different philosophies behind them.
Regarding your second point, I do agree that I never liked the interface of MGS3 very much; but what was bad about MGS2's? It was very fast and intuitive, I'd say. And you can modify it to better suit your interface tastes. And I'd understand if you say bridges in Big Shell are the same, but the rooms aren't. Although that pale orange in every single area might confuse some, indeed.
Don't play Peace Walker, though. Probably one of the most grindiest games I've ever played. Too many filler, too many side missions and ridiculous requisites to keep playing the story mode.
EDIT: To answer the OP, yes, I do get Metal Gear Solid games. They're awesome. One of my favourite franchise, ever.
