This thread is the first time I've heard that people actually disliked Rising. I've heard nothing but good things about it prior, and that's coming from other message boards.You'll get no argument from me, I thought Rising was the shit and I've been a longtime MGS fan.
But I don't think it's really a minority opinion. Seems like it's more a GAF love. Same with people trashing MGSV. I only see massive hate on here. Most people I talk to IRL loved it.
Personally, I think I had only played Twin Snakes and part of MGS2 prior to Rising, so I was in it for the action and the spectacle, but even after playing through the rest of the series I think it works just fine.