The camera
snakes under the door, maneuvered from outside by manipulating the PS3
controller and the onboard SIXAXIS function.
It’s a nice
touch, made to feel realistic and give a sense of immersion. And it works. This
is just one of the changes applied to the PlayStation 3 version of the game that
was also released to the Xbox 360 system back in late 2006 (http://xbox360.gamezone.com/gzreviews/r29005.htm).
If you have
that game, or have played it, there is not a lot of difference in the
single-player campaign featured in the PS3 version. But what is delivered here
is a more complete experience – by way of explanation: the PS3 iteration
includes a recent expansion pack, and 10 new multiplayer maps that include some
thrilling tactical shooting gameplay elements. In many regards, this is a more
complete version of the game.
The game’s
single-player experience begins in Mexico and the Rainbow Six team being sent in
to eliminate a terrorist responsible for bombings in Bogota. The setting also
acts a bit like a tutorial in that you are quickly familiarized with the use of
cover as you navigate the streets of the town. And not only that, but your team
will offer suggestions as to the best course of attack when you are moving
through the zones. The game’s tactical elements are immediately felt in this
title – especially nuances like using cover and leaning out to shoot. Leaning
out from behind cover is simple. First, you need to use the left trigger to hide
behind cover, and then use the movement key to press against the wall. You can
use the movement key to lean out and tapping the right trigger fires your
weapon.
The game
does have an overriding story arc that will work you through both the game and
the locations, though it is rather linear. But while the single-player campaign
is good – albeit short – the real star, and the reason this game will have
longevity, are the multiplayer missions. Tested during a session with
developers, the multiplayer games have variety, involve tactics and are a lot of
fun. From a turn on the capture the flag scenario (in which you have to secure a
guard briefcase) to an escort mission where you only get one death, the games
are frantic, with great environments and solid animations.
Graphically
the game is very good and the targeting system is well done. The environments
are also done decently, but the animations are the real stars here. The sound is
also well done. Those looking for a walkthrough shooter need look elsewhere.
This title has two difficulty settings – normal and realistic.
There are
other new elements for this edition. There is a new team and new team leader,
and the AI has been ramped up a bit, so expect your squadmates to offer
suggestions on tactical approaches to a target. The game also makes use of
real-time mission briefings. Rather than just a static drop screen outlining
objectives, the game opens with you en route to the target area in a helicopter.
When ready, hit the X button to be lowered into the zone.
It should be
noted that the same code was used for both the preview and review. It was not
retail review code, therefore there may be elements in the final code that were
not in the code sent out a month before release – tweaks to certain areas of the
game.
When all is
said and done, this is a strong title in the vaunted franchise, and one that
should please Rainbow Six fans. The series has had a few down spot in recent
releases, but Vegas is a return to glory for this series. The single-player game
is good, but the multiplayer will give shooter fans a lot of entertainment value
for quite some time.
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Gameplay: 8.5
While the SIXAXIS
implementation is okay, it feels like it was put into the game simply to be able
to say it was put into the game. The rest of the interface is solid, and the
learning curve to learn the control scheme is small with this title.
Graphics: 8.7
A little dark in
places, but the game does a good job with its animations and effects.
Sound: 8.2
A nice supporting
player. The sound is solid, the voice acting is decent and the score is well
done.
Difficulty: Medium
Concept: 8.5
Other versions of
the game were released six months ago. Still it is nice to see that this
iteration comes with a few extras.
Multiplayer: 9.0
Deep and
engaging, this element will keep you in this game for a long time to come.
Overall: 8.5
The single-player
campaign goes by awfully quickly, but the multiplayer is strong and very
entertaining. The game does not have the face mapping that the 360 had, and
rumble controller technology is not inherent in the PS3 controller, but while
you may buy the game and enjoy the single-player campaign, it is the multiplayer
elements that will keep you playing the game.
