

That’s a pretty good summary of the entire game. Some elements could have been better implemented, but the game is stronger with them than it would be without them. Still, the problems only emphasize how good Conviction is. Given the high quality of the level design, washing out the screen doesn’t seem like the best way to showcase the engine. A similar problem occurs with the sonar goggles, which help locate enemies while making the landscape disappear. It’s a very useful gameplay feature, but the lack of color makes it difficult to navigate. The screen fades to black and white whenever Sam is hidden, so it’s easy to stick to the shadows. Mastering new techniques clarifies the picture, and the natural progression will cause you to marvel at your prior struggles once you finally get it right. Early attempts are like trying to solve a puzzle while missing half of the pieces. Staying alive is a test of skill, and passing a difficult section is incredibly rewarding because it requires an untouched playthrough. “Splinter Cell: Conviction has everything you’d want from an elite action adventure”Įven though Conviction can be frustrating, it seldom feels unfair. At certain points you’ll die four or five times before you’ve even had a chance to register your opponent’s assault and facing troops that can survive multiple headshots is just plain obnoxious. The controls are good enough to facilitate a more typical action approach, but it doesn’t take many bullets to bring you down and gun battles can be very unforgiving.

Later levels that force you into open gunfights against better-armed soldiers are less cerebral and consequently less fun. There are a few flaws, but they’re mostly nitpicks that are only noteworthy because the game is otherwise so pristine. It all combines for one the best-paced action game since Resident Evil 4, as you’re constantly shuttled from one exciting encounter to another. There are fewer gadgets than in previous Splinter Cell games, but the reduced inventory means that every item will eventually prove necessary. Car alarms, explosives, and chandeliers can all be used to create distractions, while shooting out lights and using cover reveals new angles and opportunities. There’s a noticeable difficulty curve that encourages progressively more creative combat innovation. Sam Fisher is far from bulletproof, so you’ll spend more time planning your next move than you will actually executing it. As simple as it is to carry out cool attacks, Conviction still provides a satisfying stealth challenge.
