To confirm that Big Boss is still alive...

[Otty]

Why did Kojima suddenly go out of his way? He said he wouldn't re-release Metal Gear 1 and 2. So, why is he going to throw it together with Subsistence? Well, here's why:

Big Boss is coming back, and rejoins with Snake. This will call up LOTS of memories in both Snake's and Big Boss's minds, hence there will be a lot of references to Metal Gear 1 and 2. There are a lot of Metal Gear fans, who haven't played the original two games. Hell, some don't even know you can emulate them on your computer.
So, Kojima wants to make a lost story complete by re-releasing these games with most probably a new script, so that we'll be able to understand Snake's and Big Boss's jabbering in MGS4.

[miro69]

or it could be to just that he wants to justify BB's actions. and complete the whole MGS theme of Meme Genes and Scene.

the additional games are just cash cow devices, but also a nice present for the fans.

[dirtyeskimo]

sounds about right...the both of you

[anthony]

That makes the most sence.
I think otty is completely right!