Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell on PS2 (2003)

Brief synopsis of Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell

One of the most hyped up games in recent times, Splinter Cell is also one of the few that is deserving of it. First released on the Xbox, then appearing even more impressively on the PC, it's now finally arrived on PS2 and, despite being somewhat tamer in the visuals department, is an extremely competent conversion. Likened on more than one occasion to Metal Gear 2, Splinter Cell brings that famous infiltration, neutralisation, and sneaking around action to Sony's black box.

Taking control of one Sam Fisher - the best field-operative of the secretive "black-ops" NSA sub-agency Third Echelon - players are sent to execute desperate missions as the government's last resort. Missions such as infiltrating CIA headquarters, seizing critical intelligence and destroying threatening data and equipment are pretty much run-of-the-mill to this guy, so players really have their work cut out. The main objectives are to remain undetected, neutralise every enemy, and exit without a trace.

The emphasis is most definitely on the stealth side of things here, with the main character having access to a massive array of nimble moves and abilities. Diving somersaults, hanging off ledges, peeking around corners, and even shinnying up drainpipes are all required if one is to remain undetected.

The environments throughout Splinter Cell are all highly interactive, with players able to make use of any objects lying around, shooting out any lights, and taking advantage of shadows.

Although not throwing around as many lighting effects as the other two versions of Splinter Cell, the PS2 port still looks the part. The game's detailed environments and skilled use of shadows constantly help to make you feel part of the action.

Well worthy of all its accolades, Splinter Cell is a must-have title - it's finally reaching a cross-platform status so now there are few excuses not to have it in your collection.