Splinter Source

4 It's great, but short.
It’s not quite Splinter Cell in 2D, but it’s a lot of fun. The simplified mechanics work great once you get a handle on the controls.

You only have five minutes to complete the mission, and it might take more than a few tries to get the objective and escape. I’ve tried several times, but for the sake of this review I actually made an effort to beat it. My first few runs went towards getting used to the controls and level layout.

Speaking of the level design, Splinter Source has a good few routes through the level. Ammunition and health packs are scattered about, so depending on the route you may have to rely on avoidance or melee to get by, or you could shoot everyone and run on through. There’s also a special item that lets you move faster, which is very handy for making more jumps and not wasting time, but by being so useful there’s little reason NOT to go get it.

The combat mechanics are heavily leaned towards discretion, since enemies alerted to your presence can take more hits, and will alert others nearby to your presence. Four bullets can either be four stealth kills or one alerted enemy kill, but even then you’ll be lucky to survive long against the enemy’s assault rifle shots. Therefore, stealth is important even against one enemy.

I could say more, but you should know enough by now to decide if this game is worth it. It certainly warrants beating once, for sure.

And here’s to hoping the planned and expanded sequel is even better!