Play the original MG games?

I have decided to play the Metal Gear games, but I am worried about missing out on some of the story. If I was to not play the original games for the NES, since I do not own one, would I miss crucial plot lines? Or do they get you up to speed upon starting with MGS 1?Play the original MG games?
Umm, just some minor details. Most of it is explained through out the metal gear series. But the first metal gear still plays apart in it.Play the original MG games?
The title should say MG's I'm thinking...
Thanks, title fixed.To the one who replied:That sounds great, just one more question, these minor details, are they something that I could glance over without caring about, or should I look up the story online?
I would look up the story online. The story isn't much, but it helps the storyline of the mgs 3 snake eater.

get ride of