Summary

A remastered classic, Perfect Dark (2010) combines nostalgic gameplay with modern enhancements, making it a must-play for fans of the original and newcomers alike.

• Release Year: 2010
• Genres: Shooter
• Platforms: Xbox 360
• Developers: 4J Studios, Rare
• Publishers: Microsoft Game Studios

Introduction

Perfect Dark (2010) is a remastered edition of the iconic first-person shooter, bringing enhanced graphics and online multiplayer to a new generation of gamers.

Synopsis

“Perfect Dark” is a first-person shooter game that was originally released for the Nintendo 64 in 2000 and remastered by 4J Studios for the Xbox 360 in 2010. The remastered version retains the core gameplay of the original but features significant technical improvements, including new higher-resolution textures and character models, a higher frame rate, and a mode that supports the Xbox Live online service.

The game’s protagonist is Joanna Dark, an agent of the Carrington Institute organization. The plot revolves around Joanna’s attempts to thwart a conspiracy by the rival corporation dataDyne. The events that unfold reveal a plot against the US President involving dataDyne, the NSA, and a mysterious third faction. Things rapidly become more complicated, and Joanna soon finds herself in the middle of a war between two alien races who have allied themselves with different factions on Earth.

The campaign is divided into nine missions, each consisting of 1 to 3 levels. There are also four bonus missions known as Special Assignments that are unlocked once the player has completed the respective difficulties of the campaign. These serve as mid-story levels that explain certain events between Joanna’s missions involving other characters, specifically Elvis, Mr. Blonde, and a Maian Protector.

The game features a single-player mode and a range of multiplayer options, including a co-operative mode and a “Combat Simulator” where numerous players can compete against each other in traditional deathmatch settings. Combat Simulator matches can be highly customized and can include bots. A “Counter-Operative” mode, where one player controls the protagonist while the other controls enemies throughout a single-player level, attempting to stop the first player from completing objectives, is also included in the game.

In the remastered version, any of the multiplayer modes can be played in either splitscreen or through the Xbox Live online service. An online leaderboard system was also added, and players can earn achievements and in-game crowns by accomplishing certain tasks. Although Combat Simulator matches are still capped at 12 entities, the remaster can comprise eight players online simultaneously, an improvement to the original’s cap of four players and eight bots.

Despite the relatively unchanged gameplay, the remastered version of “Perfect Dark” was generally well-received. Some critics considered the game to be outdated, but most agreed that the title was a solid revival of a classic. As of the end of 2011, the game had sold nearly 410,000 units. In 2015, the game was included in the Rare Replay video game compilation for Xbox One.

“Perfect Dark” (2010) is a remastered version of a classic first-person shooter that offers a compelling plot, engaging gameplay, and a variety of multiplayer options. Its story of corporate and extraterrestrial intrigue set against a backdrop of futuristic spy warfare continues to captivate players, making it a standout title in the genre.

Characters

Joanna Dark, the protagonist, is a talented and resourceful agent. Other key characters include Daniel Carrington, head of the Carrington Institute, and Cassandra De Vries, the ruthless CEO of dataDyne.

Gameplay

Gameplay remains faithful to the original, with players engaging in a mix of shooting, stealth, and puzzle-solving. The remaster adds improved controls, updated graphics, and a seamless online multiplayer experience.

Conclusion

Perfect Dark (2010) successfully resurrects a beloved classic for modern audiences, retaining the charm and challenge of the original while offering significant visual and multiplayer improvements.

Review Score

8/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

Fan Art

Fan Art Style: Normal

Fan Art Style: Retro

Fan Art Style: Modern