Sniper Elite (2005)

by Christopher January 13, 2019

written by Christopher January 13, 2019 5 minutes read

Summary

Release Year: 2005
Genres: Shooter, Simulator, Strategy, Tactical
Platforms: PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 2, Wii, Xbox
Developers: Rebellion Developments
Publishers: MC2 France

Sniper Elite (2005): A Stealth Action Masterpiece

Released in 2005, Sniper Elite is a third-person action strategy game that puts players in the role of an American OSS agent operating in Berlin at the end of World War II. The game’s focus on sniping, stealth, and historical accuracy set it apart from other shooters of its time and helped it to earn a cult following.

Gameplay

Sniper Elite’s gameplay is a unique blend of stealth and sniping. Players must use stealth tactics to navigate levels and take out enemies without being detected. The game’s sniping mechanics are realistic and challenging, requiring players to take into account factors such as wind, bullet drop, and target movement.

One of the most distinctive features of Sniper Elite is its “bullet cam” mechanic. When a player performs a particularly well-executed shot, the game rewards them with a slow-motion replay of the bullet’s trajectory from the gun barrel to the target. This mechanic adds a visceral and satisfying element to the sniping experience.

Story

Sniper Elite’s story is set in Berlin in the final days of World War II. The player takes on the role of OSS agent Karl Fairburne, who is tasked with preventing the Russian troops from getting hold of the research Germany had been conducting into nuclear weaponry.

The story is told through a series of 28 missions, each of which takes place in a different location in and around Berlin. The missions are varied and challenging, and they offer a good mix of stealth, sniping, and action sequences.

Graphics and Sound

For a game released in 2005, Sniper Elite’s graphics are still impressive. The game’s environments are detailed and atmospheric, and the character models are well-animated. The game’s sound design is also top-notch, with realistic gunshots and explosions.

Reception

Sniper Elite was met with critical acclaim upon its release. The game was praised for its innovative gameplay, realistic sniping mechanics, and immersive story. Sniper Elite went on to become a commercial success, selling over 2 million copies worldwide.

Legacy

Sniper Elite has had a lasting impact on the video game industry. The game’s focus on sniping and stealth helped to popularize these genres, and its bullet cam mechanic has been imitated in many other games. Sniper Elite has also spawned several sequels, including Sniper Elite V2 (2012), Sniper Elite 3 (2014), and Sniper Elite 4 (2017).

Conclusion

Sniper Elite (2005) is a classic stealth action game that still holds up today. The game’s innovative gameplay, realistic sniping mechanics, and immersive story make it a must-play for fans of the genre. If you’re looking for a challenging and rewarding sniping experience, then Sniper Elite is the game for you.

Additional Information

Developer: Rebellion Developments
Publisher: Ubisoft
Platforms: PC, Xbox, PlayStation 2
Release Date: November 11, 2005
Genre: Stealth action
ESRB Rating: Mature

Review Score

8/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

Christopher

Christopher has carved a niche for himself as an authority on retro pre-2000 computer games. With a passion that borders on reverence, Christopher delves deep into the pixelated past of gaming, unearthing gems and sharing insights that resonate with both nostalgic players and curious newcomers. His articles serve as a time machine, transporting readers back to an era where gameplay and creativity often trumped graphical fidelity. Cristopher's expertise isn't just in cataloging these classics; he analyzes their design, the context of their creation, and their impact on the gaming landscape, offering a comprehensive look at the evolution of digital entertainment. Beyond mere retrospectives, Christopher champions the relevance of these retro games in today's high-definition world. He skillfully draws parallels between the foundational mechanics of yesteryear's titles and the modern gaming innovations they inspired. His work goes beyond mere preservation; it's an ongoing dialogue between the past and present of gaming. Christopher's content educates, entertains, and ignites discussions within the gaming community. His dedication not only keeps the legacy of pre-2000 games alive but also highlights their importance in shaping the future of video gaming.