It's not that bad, Pete. Most of the time, I have dropped my level but later on I got them back. I'm pretty sure you will too, just try to be better! You need to know the maps well, like where enemies may be, etc. That's the key. When you know a map well, then you probably know where to hide, giving you a better chance to become better.

Oh, I've just found out that if I buy the NA version of MGS4, it will allow me to play the NA online. I would have to buy it, though...