Pros: Intense Tom Clancy realism, great controls compared to PC version.
Cons: It's not a "pick up & play" game.
The bottom line: I recommend this to anyone who likes previous Tom Clancy games, or likes war simulations. Top notch warfare.
Full review
Introduction:
I originally had Ghost Recon on my computer in 2001. Its roots are firmly established in the style of Rainbow Six, as is most games under Tom Clancy. Ghost Recon takes more of a straight militaristic approach however. Ghost Recon got many awards for this strategy game, but does its console port live up to the PC's standards?
Graphics - 90/100:
The graphics, to say the least, are very well done. The
frame rate runs pretty smoothly. This is probably due to the fact its the opposite style of gameplay to
Hunter: The Reckoning. The buildings look just as great
up close as they do from afar. The resolution does get a bit low sometimes if you get real up close, but thats forgiveable. In valleys and grassy terrains, the trees sway in the wind and look wonderful.
Controls - 83/100:
Sounds weird but, I actually prefer the controls in this to the PC version. They simplified the squad control system and made it much easier to control your team under
a hail of gunfire. The soldiers on your team respond immediately to orders. In a game where stealth is the main focus, it is important controls be easy -- and Ghost Recon prevails in this category.
Sound - 88/100:
Ghost Recon has 5.1 Dolby Digital supported, which means this game sounds great. From bullets whizzing by your
head, to grenade explosions, to the sound of your team
members screaming "Move! Move!", this game shines with
its audio. It does tend to get a tad loud at times though.
Which isn't really a bad thing, it makes it realistic to what it would sound like in a real war.
Gameplay - 90/100:
The Campaign mode lets you play with a team of Elite soldiers is sent in to disrupt the plans of a radical new leadership. If there's one thing I can rant and rave about, is I'm all about
fun. And sometimes Tom Clancy games are so complicated, it can get in the way of that. Luckily, the game gives you a GREAT tutorial before you see action, and combined with a hefty manual, you should be prepared for action when you start the campaign mode. Superb. What can I say? If you are a fan of military team games, you'll love this.
Replay Value - 93/100:
If there's one thing I'm all about in a video game, it's unlockables. It's one thing I always search for, and is one of the main reasons I try and play a game all the way through. Fortunately, Ghost Recon has a ton of unlockables. From new weapons, maps, soldiers, and game types. Where the game really shines in all its glory is in multiplayer mode. With the great controls that the XBOX gives compared to the PC, it even makes this have more replay value. Good job Red Storm Entertainment!
Final Thoughts - 91/100 (not an average):
This game accomplishes its mission, no pun intended, of
intense realism, incredible sound, and great multiplayer.
The multiplayer option alone would give this game a high
score. I recommend this to anyone who likes previous Tom Clancy games, or likes war simulations.