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Jameson Thottam as Sam Fischer in Splinter Cell

5 Rating: 5, Useful: 3 / 6
Date: January 08, 2006
Author: Amazon User

Jameson Thottam as Sam Fischer in Splinter Cell

Splinter Cell (a Tom Clancy project) began in 2002 with the X-Box version of Splinter Cell - the game that blew gamers away by graphical shadowing alone. The game was intended to be the first "true" stealth game and rival the Die-Hard-like competitor Metal Gear Solid. In some ways, even then, the game seemed revolutionary. Sneak in the cloak of shadows and through the gaps of broken light in silence to destroy enemies was basically what Splinter Cell was about. Despite the neat gadgets the game had (surveillance cameras that dispersed gas, guns that fried electrical units), the game seemed simple; in fact it was simple in a linear interpretation. When the game ended, there was no real reason to go back through the game, even if it was an instant classic. So, out came Pandora Tomorrow, two years, later that tried to expand Splinter Cell. In some cases, it did; larger levels were built, the lighting was better adjusted, and it even featured multiplayer. But, once again, when the time came for the game's completion, Pandora Tomorrow fell shallow - even with the multiplayer. So, out comes Chaos Theory; a game where they expanded the levels even larger, readjusted a few things, and added a few perks to enhance the gameplay and make it worth a second, or third, go through. Did their attempt succeed? Yes it did. So much that it not only impressed me, but made me realize that UbiSoft is the next major contendor in third-party manufacturers and may just be the next Rareware (although Rareware is a second-party company, but you know what I mean...).

Gameplay 5 (out of 5) : James Thottam

You are top stealth agent Sam Fischer, who is reprising his role of serving the U.S. Government way beyond his deadline for retirement. You are twice the age of the new recruits who you serve, but the Pentagon values you more than the other men. Why? Well, its easy to say that your record of killing people exceed even your commander-in-chief, you have survived two other world-threatening missions and above that, your a very dangerous killing machine who doesn't sleep. You smell, see, taste, hear, and feel death around you, its in your blood to kill for the good of decent men and you can't accept life any other way than offered to you by your career. You are Sam Fisher. The Chaos Theory has been assigned to you and you will not fail your mission; it's in your blood, it's why you were born to live.

Putting you in the Mood: Jameson Thottam
That's the overall attitude the game puts in you. That is what successful games do, puts you in the mood and makes you believe you are that character until you get a game over and restart and reenact through the same belief that compels you.

The newer installment has been redefined. The levels are huge, complex levels with different niches and ways to get past it. For instance, you can go through crawl spaces to get around an obstacle, fall from catwalks to knock out guards, or just go ape-wild with your machine gun and blast them. It's truly up to you. A few levels do seem linear; especially the post-apocalyptic Seoul stage; where you have to follow building top upon building top across a city of destroyed structures and, when you get past the buildings, you have one-way alleyways to worry about:, but then again, you can follow the route either on ground or through fire escapes and zip-lines.

From Start to Finish: Jameson Thottam
At the beginning of the stage there are very impressive GCI rendered cut-scenes about sudden incidents that will cause you to pursue the particular mission given to you by Colonel Irving Lambert. After a briefing is made, you are given the option of three types of weapons to enter; Stealth (has weapons like the sticky camera, silent pistol, and combat knife with limited ammunition), Assault (You are given grenades, machine guns, etc.) and William Redding's Recommendation (The amount of weapons and weapon types that best suit's the chosen level). I usually choose stealth because A, I love it, and B, I am trying to get passed the entire game undetected (which means not killing anyone). Though I don't think B will be possible, sense the bosses recognize you. But even so, it's still a challenge. If you don't want to use your weapons assigned to you, you can always use natural entities (as of rocks or wine bottles) to hum at their heads. Be careful though on how you aim an object; a few times I totally missed their head and they instantly pinpointed from where the bottle was thrown.

Thinking about the AI: Jameson L Thottam
Yes, the A.I. is more advanced in this version. They hold conversations with each other, cough, and even struggle for their lives from your deadly grasp. With their impressive realistic natures, comes more enhanced protocols. The enemies in the game can now sense something out of the ordinary, are able to notice you from across the yard if you are exposed in the light, and gain a funny feeling if you follow them. Meaning, you can make the slightest noise and they turn and shoot you. So, this game really pushes you to the limit and demands you to be quick with the toes if you intend to go about the game as a stealth figure. They will even call out reinforcements or walk out of their jurisdiction to investigate whatever disturbance. A few times, I was sniped out by someone who noticed me in the shadow from an upper floor of the building; I guess the scope of their sniper rifle has a night-vision lens.

Ending the Game: Jameson Thottam
At the end of each level, you are offered statistics on how you performed in the stage (how many people you killed, how many times you were noticed, etc.) and a percentage grade is given to you; which is not only challenging to get 100% on all stages, but through harder difficulties it is even more tricky). Do not ask me what happens when you get an overall game completion of 100%, because I haven't yet reached that, I am at 97% in the easiest difficulty. I, having been pulled into the (complete the entire game and receive a special prize) have been fooled too much into the ploy; I am not expecting much of out this supposed conspiracy, but it Chaos Theory alone is just so spectacular that I have no problems replaying it again for the umpteenth time.

Training: Jameson Thottam
If you get bored of the main game, there is a training mode, and online play via XBOX Live. But I will be frank with you, I don't have an XBOX-Live and couldn't even afford to have one even thought I would like to add in a review on how Chaos Theory runs online. Yet, I'd rather play the single player campaign anyways, it serves a breath of fresh air in the gaming world.

Graphics 5 (Out of 5): Jameson Thottam

I don't know how well the enhanced Ninja Gaiden: Black looks because I haven't had the chance to try it out (though I got annihilated by the boss of the first stage of Ninja Gaiden for XBOX, so I am in no rush to try it's revamped version), but I should feel safe to say Splinter Cell: Chaos Theory renders the best graphics I have seen out of the XBOX. It is twice superior to that of Pandora Tomorrow and rivals the visuals of Chronicles of Riddick: Escape from Butcher Bay. Between the expression of fear seeping out the faces of the enemies held hostage, the tarps swaying lightly with the wind, the leaves of ferns and blades of grass drifting back and forth by the breeze, and the moistened glow of the nightlight running up Sam Fischer's suit give one of the most realistic console atmospheres I have played yet. The only problem with Splinter Cell, is don't the A.I. drones notice the three round beams (from the visors attached to Sam's crown) glowing in the dark? I found that a bit perplexing. But either than that, the colorization of the levels (most importantly the golden stage of Hokkaido) are beautiful and vibrant.

Sound 4.5 (Out of 5) : James Thottam

While the soundtrack is on the border of non-existent, every natural sound (waves rushing upon the rocky surf of the lighthouse stages, the gusts of rain catapulting with the gales, and even the range of other people voices (as they are down the hall or in another room) all sound true to it's nature. The gadgets sound high-tech and the rapid firing of the guns blare at a full Dolby Digital 5.1. If there are fans who dig sound effects, this is your game.

Replay 5 (Out of 5) : Jameson L Thottam

With over a dozen intricate ways to kill your target, I don't find any two experiences through a single stage will be enacted in the same way, there is just too much happening. There is the "Save anywhere, anytime function", which I humbly adore in any game, included in Chaos Theory. While some of the missions are hard, this game screams to be made into a movie. What with safe-cracking, hacking into a bank's security system, taking over Japanese conspirators, defusing bombs, being hunted by hovering robotic sentry units, finding dozens of secret passages in the game, and actually racing to destroy a nuclear weapon before it hits land... who would want more out of a video game? Although this game is far from epic, it the adventure can be fun and quick, intriguing and slow paced, suspenseful, or whatever you want it to be. It is Sam Fisher's life you are playing and, just like your own life, you can experience it however you want to with the understanding of the consequences involved with the actions you take. Although I haven't played it online, I heard it was pretty awesome. There is also offline Co-op, I haven't tried it however; don't have any friends close by who are still interested as I am in playing video games... But, it doesn't matter. The Single-Player campaign will last you a good few weeks or, if you like it as how I do, Chaos Theory will last you a very long time.

Overall 4.75 (out of 5) : Jameson Thottam

I know I haven't gone into critiquing the controls. They are the same as what is found in Pandora Tomorrow, except now they have a hanging upside down move and you also get to decide if you want to crack their neck or knock them unconscious (I don't recall if you were given the option in the previous installment). But anyhow, Chaos Theory delivers and makes you feel as if you are actually working for the Pentagon. A classic XBOX game that is worthy to be in anyone's collection. I can't wait until I can continue my fictitious career of Sam Fischer in the Splinter Cell sequel coming out on the XBOX 360, if I could actually afford to buy an XBOX 360 later on in the future. Here's to hoping...

Jameson Thottam

One of the Best Games Ever on Xbox

5 Rating: 5, Useful: 3 / 6
Date: April 12, 2005
Author: Amazon User

All of the other reviews here have fully covered this game, so I will just say that if you own a Xbox you should get Spinter Cell Chaos Theory, Doom 3-Collector's Edition, and of course Halo 2 for its awesome online modes. These are the only 3 games I feel are worth owning and I just rent other ones when I get bored. This game is one of the few worth buying.

Best Stealth\Action Game Ever. Period.

5 Rating: 5, Useful: 2 / 3
Date: March 29, 2005
Author: Amazon User

All of the splinter cell games are incredible, so going into this review I was expecting great things. Needless to say, this game blew me away. Not only is it more fun to play then the first two Spinter Cell games, but it looks about ten times better then Pandora Tomorrow. This is by far the best looking consol game I have ever seen. Yes better then Halo 2, Doom 3, DOA Ultimate. Better then all of those games. The textures are freaking unbelieveable. Individual pieces of gravel on the ground, textured bricks on a wall, its just incredible.

Lets talk abour multiplayer...well...it rocks. It has co-op online which is great. I havent gotton to see if it has the same multiplayer from PT, but if it does, watch out Halo.

Overall, Splinter Cell: Chaos Theroy is the best of the best when it comes to Stealth\Action games. If you have an X-box or a good PC, get it before its gone.

Concept- Bring back the worlds most loved spy and make him ten times better.

Presintation- 9.7- The box art is a little off(except on the collectors edition) but everything is put together well.

Graphics- 10- the best looking consol game ever, textures are incredible, aminations are top notch, everything is awesom.

Sound- 10- The first time sound has played a major, and I mean major, role in gameplay. Its done really well.

Playability- 9.6- The shooting elements are a little eh but otherwise its great.

Entertainment- 9.6- Never has sneeking up behind someone and cuttinmg their throught been more fun.

Replay Value- 9.6- Great Multiplayer

The Reviews Were Correct!

5 Rating: 5, Useful: 2 / 3
Date: April 03, 2005
Author: Amazon User

This game does deserve all the high reviews it recieved.

The graphics are simply stunning! The lighting in the game, mixed with the crisp, clear, people is just aweing.

The sound rules! I have a 5.1 system where I play the game, and if an enemy is walking on my left side I hear these foosteps on my left side, the same goes for forward, right, back ect. It is great! The soundtrack in the game is also amazing.

Oh the gameplay... You get co-op! How awesome is that! It is smooth, and the things you can do are amazing.

Just a masterpiece. Best Splinter Cell game ever, one of my favorite games of all time. Buy!!!!!

The third time is the charm...

5 Rating: 5, Useful: 2 / 3
Date: April 07, 2005
Author: Amazon User

I have been able to play and beat each and every one of the Splinter Cell games. The original set such a high mark for the successors to meet with it's realistic graphics and tense storyline. The second came in with an unbelievable multiplayer experience that was unheard of at the time. Now, with Chaos Theory, all of those wonderful qualities are back and better than ever.

In this newest game to the series, you once again take on the role of Sam Fisher, a wisen and extremely efficient character the can't seem to enjoy the laxed lifestyle of retirement. This latest series of spy laden adventures has Sam traveling to more remote and exotic locales that look better than anything offered before. I must say that I have Chaos Theory for my Xbox and my laptop. I run a Alienware 5500 with a ATI 9700 video card, and the Xbox isn't lagging too far behind in quality to my laptop. That says a lot for what Ubisoft has been able to do with the Xbox. While the game still plays in a linear fashion, you now have multiple paths that you can take to accomplish your missions. You won't ever have to worry about getting lost in a level and not knowing where to head from your position.

Sam has a few new moves that are a joy to watch and execute. As nice as this is to be added to the game, you are restricted in where you can employ these new moves. A new weapon that Sam uses is his combat knife. This will aid in stealth kills and also allow you to cut fabric in certain locales within the levels. There are also new additions to the combat rifle that enables it to fit a shotgun and a sniper shot style to it, although during my first go around in the game I didn't use them, so I can't say how well they add to the game. The graphics are definitely polished and have niceties about them that add to the realism. One example will have you in the early part of the game walking thru a level that is exposed to adverse weather. Sam will change in appearance from "wet" when he is in the rain to "dry" when he seeks shelter. It is a nice touch to see the look of the characters reflect the environments like this.

Now, for the truly best part of this game, the COOP play. As of now, there are 4 levels in which you can play COOP. Hopefully, Ubisoft will add more for download thru Live in the near future. COOP will have you and a friend, either thru Live, Split screen or multiple Xbox's connected thru LAN, you can play levels that are stragically created to allow for the COOP in that you cannot move past certain points of the levels without a partner to help. You can stand on their shoulders to get an unobstructive view, you can also use each in a form of a human ladder to reach a upper landing. Clearly a wonderful addition to the series and a definite genre buster. The Versus mode is for the most part unchanged from Pandora Tomorrow. The mercs will have a few new moves to help counter against spies chokeholds that were abundant during Pandora Tomorrow gameplay.

One other little nicety and extra realism to the game with multiplayer allows for the NPC's (non playable characters) to hear you thru the Live communicator if you speak too loud and come investigate. If you were a fan of the first two, you will love this game without a doubt. If you are new to the series, 30 minutes and you will have the basics down with the controls of this game. Ultimately, this game offers great replay value thru the linear, yet multiple path single player campaign, and thru the return of the wonderful multiplayer and exciting COOP game play styles. Definitely worth the money to buy, and at the very least worth a rental to check it out.

Good game but just more of the same.........

4 Rating: 4, Useful: 2 / 3
Date: June 07, 2005
Author: Amazon User

If you played the first two games in this series you'll be right at home. You're able to run and gun more than in the past and it's nice not to be punished as much for setting off alarms. The controls, graphics (unfortunately you're usually in the dark), and sound are top notch.

U can save during a mission !!!

5 Rating: 5, Useful: 2 / 3
Date: January 02, 2006
Author: Amazon User

Oh, yes, what the previous game was really missing was the option to save within a mission. The guys were awesome to give us, the casual players this option, which really makes the whole game FUN TO play.

Congratulations, UBISOFT ! Tecmo is made up of morons !

Splinter CELL CHAOS THEORY but it is later than you think...

5 Rating: 5, Useful: 4 / 12
Date: September 26, 2004
Author: Amazon User

Well this game has been in development for two years ever since the first Splinter CELL A.K.A SC hit the streets. This game is going to be out not in NOVEMBER 2004 as advertised here but MARCH 2005 this is a great disappointment but is confirmed by UBI soft. For (...) the quick over-run CHAOS THEORY is going to be the best game, GRAPHICLY in the history of games.
The main character, Sam Fisher, is a member of the so-called THIRD ECHELON government agency. Sam is a BLACK OPS agent and cannot (SHOULD NOT) leave a trace on the political, or physical map...in other words he must be "invisible". So Sam's latest adventure is based around the premise that the Japanese made an "ARMY" trained to use "information" warfare (using electronics to mess around with thing like the national defense agency's computers) and attack themselves to blame it on the north Koreans this starts the pieces rolling and heads the player off to war...By the way this game will be a must have so pre-order is a good idea!

The Best Splinter Cell Experience Yet!

5 Rating: 5, Useful: 2 / 4
Date: March 30, 2005
Author: Amazon User

This game has it all; great physics, graphics and weapons. A vast improvement over other Splinter Cell releases, and that's saying something.

Great game.....and some help for the previous poster ;)

5 Rating: 5, Useful: 2 / 4
Date: April 06, 2005
Author: Amazon User

I own and have beaten all of the other Splinter Cell games. Chaos Theory is by far the best in the series so far. The open ended level design in fantastic. You may go through a very difficult way, but then find there was an air vent or something you could have slid through if you were paying attention.

The only problem I have had is the sound loading. When a guard becomes alert, sometimes the sound will cut out for a few seconds, but it is no deal breaker, the game still rocks.

Now a few may say it's too easy, but that is only if you go blazing through the levels rambo style not caring about a % rating. If you actually tried playing it stealthily (as you should) it makes the tension that much higher and the game more difficult.

And to help our previous poster, if you equip the SC-20K (just hitting X), then you tap the white button, it will cut to an animation of Sam changing out the attachments. The sniper rifle is only fired while zoomed in. Yeah, you will know it when you fire off that first 20mm round......through a wall into a NCP.

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