Perfect Dark Zero

"A Tactical shooter that, with Xbox Live, have you playing for days."

Introduction:
So after 6 years of waiting I have finally got my hands on another title with the words "Perfect Dark" in it. There's been alot of hype. There's been alot of work and now it's time to try it out.

Graphics: 8/10
As one of the first "next-gen" titles it's sometimes hard to grade graphics so I'm going to be tough. The graphics are beautiful in both SD and HD however it does have a few graphical glitches here and there which knock down it's score a bit. But seriously this is great stuff. Just check out the gun animations!

Sound: 7/10
Good music and atmosphere with brilliant gun noises which bring back memories of the first game. Sadly the brilliance presented is brought down drastically by the mediocre voice acting which really sucks sometimes. I don't think anyone can listen to someone say "I'm gonna drop you like a bad conversation" and not cringe.

Gameplay: 8/10
Of course no matter what it all comes down to how the game plays. The original Perfect Dark was a mad shooting fest with some fairly tactical bits thrown in and this is the same deal albeit a bit more tactical. The health system is confusing yet ingenious and the weapon balance is brilliant (apart from maybe one gun). The single player has a fairly poor storyline which will not satisfy fans but the fun to be have is in shovel loads especially the later ones (but not the last one). Mission objectives are simple to complete but still offer interesting approaches whether they be stealthy or just run 'n' gun. There are several difficulty settings and the objectives change depending on which you choose so it's not just a bit smarter AI or less health *cough* HALO *cough* it is actually a different affair. This game certainly not a Halo clone and for once that's a good thing. It has done things it's own way and it will reap the rewards for being original and different.

The multiplayer is fantastic offering plenty of scenarios and levels to suit most peoples taste. It's good fun, certainly with mates and Xbox Live really does improve on this title. It's engaging, it's fast and it's a challenge. The multiplayer is really where this game does shine. Oh, and don't worry if you don't have Live: The bots offer a good challenge and it's great doing a 4 vs 10 bots match with a few pals. There are several modes to indulge in and although it does not have as much customization as the first title it is promised to improve.

Long Term: 9/10
There is plenty to do whether it be trying to complete Dark agent (god help you!) or get all the multiplayer achievements you won't run out of objectives. Downloadable content is also confirmed so as the glitches come apparent and any shadow of boredom sets in the DLC will sort it... hopefully.

Overall: 8/10
Pros:
+ Not a Halo Clone (tactical)
+ Outstanding Multiplayer
+ Good replay value
Cons:
- Poor voice acting
- Glitches rampant
- Feels rushed

Well it isn't halo and that's a good thing. This tactical shooter will surely remind you of the good old days so enjoy it.

Reviewer's Score: 8/10, Originally Posted: 02/03/06