Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell Chaos Theory

"Best Xbox game to date"

First to begin with I must say after beating the game that this is easily the best in the series and quite possibly the best Xbox game available. But the thing is, this game isn't for everyone. If you love rambo style gameplay with just shoot to kill tatics then you probably wont like this game. But if you like the whole stealthy atmosphere, then this game is definitely for you.

Graphics 10/10

These are literally some of the best graphics I have ever seen. There is so much detail in the environments and the characters that it sometimes looks too good. The lighting and shadow effects really bring this game to life. Sometimes it's even worth walking directly under a light just to see the sheer beauty of the graphics. Only to get shot afterward. Anyways, graphics are top notch and push the Xbox to it's limits. An easy 10 out of 10.

Story 10/10

Now I don't know about you, but I have always enjoyed SC's stories. Though it might not be for some people. It's very realistic and consists of a political plot revolving around terrorist plots and nations at the brink of war. I don't want to spoil anything so I wont go any further. To put it short, if you are looking for a MGS type story then you are in the wrong place. 10 out of 10 for me.

Gameplay 10/10

The meat of the game. In Splinter Cell you're main objectives are to complete given objectives while staying as stealthy as possible. That means, not being seen. Though you can go through and knife everyone you see. But thats kind of tacky in my point of view. Anyways, a new addition to the game is the knife. Which really is a great tool. It also brings to life the whole, stealthy quick assassin kill. Unlike the first two games this time you can just walk up to a guard and slash his throat quietly. Or just jab him with your palm. Which ever way is good. This definitely beats walking up to someone and elbowing them a few time while getting shot at to take them out. Another great addition is the fact that the game is now more open ended and takes away the whole trial and error system you got in the first two games. You now have multiple pathways toward your objectives that really help you become more stealthy and avoid enemies at all cost. Which by the way the guards are a lot smarter this time around due to the great AI in the game. Guards sometimes will light a flare to check around if they hear noises. They hide behind cover while in a fire fight. And even lay on the stomachs when the fights last awhile. The game lasts about 9-10 hrs and spreads out through 10 great levels. You have the option of difficulty at the beginning ranging from normal, hard, to expert. The game is probably the easiest of the series but that doesnt make it a bad thing. Gameplay also gets a perfect 10 out of 10.

Sound/Audio 10/10

First I just have to say that the music in this game is freaking awesome. Some of the best I have ever heard. Amon Tomin (sp?) did an excellent job. Furthermore the voice acting is superb, from all of the main characters to even the guards. They all sound believable and lifelike. Now for the sound, which is also really good. The nice clickedy clack of Sam's equipment as he uses them, the loud bursts of fire from the weapons, the great friction sound of Sam as he moves through vents. It's all just excellent. 10 out of 10.

Multiplayer 10/10

Yes, if you thought this game was excellent enough with just the single player. They also introduce the return of Spy vs Merc mutiplayer game which I wont go into. And the new coop mode. Which is where you and a friends(either online or split screen) team up to go through 4 custom missions for coop play. This missions are great to play in with another and are at a nice length. The multiplayer definitely keeps this game from collecting dust after the Solo mode is beaten. 10 out of 10.

Overall 10/10

The best game I have played in a long time. Also easily the best game on the Xbox as of now. Excellent game. EXCELLENT. Thank you Ubisoft.

Rent or buy?

Are you stupid? Why are you even reading this review? You should already be out purchasing the game. If you haven't yet, then do yourself a favor and drive out and pick this game up, you wont regret it.

Reviewer's Score: 10/10, Originally Posted: 04/19/05