"The source of my current Woes..."

Okay firstly, I loved the original counterstrike, it had everything you would want from an on-line FPS and proudly set the genre.

Now, to CS : Source.

I didnt actually get this game until the current (feb 24th) updates so I have a completely fresh look on the current game. So I will review the game on this current status.

Gameplay:

This is not a new game, regardless of what Sierra or Valve will have you believe, this is a game from 2000 with an overhaul, and gameplay wise, not a very good one. Whilst an excellent online FPS in its own right, CS : Source adds almost no new elements to its predecessor except a few new maps and weaponry. Its a basic "Your a terrorist, plant a bomb or kill everyone" or a "Your a counter terrorist, save the hostage or defuse the bomb". Very bog standard when compared with games such as Call of Duty, which has lots of scenario variations and team play menu's. Then you have the players themselves... If you are new to this game, and god forbid, new to this genre, they will rip you apart. Not just in gameplay by fragging you, but by complaining that you are a n00b and wanting you off the server. Remember, most of these guys have been playing for 3-4 years and they dont take kindly to new people for some reason so you better be good because these guys are harsh...

Graphics :

What can I say?? The graphics in this game are quite simply superb, although most maps are a graphical overhall of previous maps, it is a mightily impressive overhall, everything from the background to the actual character movements, even the weaponry itself, is done to such a level that it make it worthwhile, even if you already own the previous title. On the whole the detection of hits and the area is very good, if you can see the target, you can hit it. You will however, need a little practice if you are new, at telling who is on your side without actually targeting them, they can look very similar from a distance some time. The graphics are easily the best thing about this game (if you have played the previous ones).

Sounds :

This game basically sounds as it should, its perfect in evey way, to the surface you are walking on, to the sound a weapon makes when it is fired, it appears to be flawless. However, there is a slight problem... When people add there own sounds to this game it is possibly the most irritating thing in the world and is unfortunately unavoidable on the server you play on. I suggest that when the game is connecting to a server, if it downloads sound files, cancel and go to another server, you will see(or hear) what I mean eventually.

Overall :

A solid overhall for veterans to enjoy there favourite game, but too repetitive and harsh for new players to have a fun play on.

7/10

Reviewer's Score: 7/10, Originally Posted: 02/28/05