Sniper Elite: Resistance review

Set against the tense backdrop of Nazi-occupied France, Sniper Elite: Resistance puts players in the boots of Harry Hawker, a new protagonist in the Sniper Elite series. As an agent of the Special Operations Executive (SOE), Hawker is tasked with dismantling a powerful Nazi weapon capable of changing the course of the war. This standalone story in the long-running series runs parallel to Sniper Elite 5, but it introduces a fresh perspective and mission structure for returning fans.

The narrative setup is engaging, with the clandestine operations and Hawker’s partnership with the French Resistance adding a compelling layer as well as a personal element to the plot. However, despite the intriguing premise, the narrative doesn’t always deliver the emotional or thematic depth you might expect from it. The French Resistance is underutilized, feeling more like a supporting role than an integral part of the gameplay experience. Still, the stakes are high, and the Wunderwaffe threat provides a strong motivation for players to see the campaign through to the end.

Gameplay remains a strong part of the series, with Sniper Elite: Resistance delivering the franchise’s signature blend of stealth, tactical combat, and, of course, sniping – though some might say that makes things too familiar. Players can choose how to approach missions though, with multiple infiltration points, objectives, and playstyles available. Whether you prefer silent takedowns or long-range precision shots, the game accommodates a wide variety of strategies. The iconic X-ray kill cam makes a return, now expanded to include pistols and submachine guns. It’s still satisfying, but hasn’t seen significant innovation, leaving it feeling slightly overused in certain scenarios and something you might find yourself skipping after a while.

One of the game’s notable additions is the Propaganda Missions, unlocked by discovering hidden posters in the environment. These short challenges offer timed objectives and opportunities for creative problem-solving, but their brevity makes them feel more like an afterthought than a core feature. On the other hand, co-op gameplay is a welcome inclusion, allowing players to tackle the campaign with a partner. Sharing resources and covering each other during intense firefights adds a layer of camaraderie to the experience and it’s an exciting and empowering way to play.

Visually, Sniper Elite: Resistance delivers mixed results. The environments are well-designed, capturing the atmosphere of war-torn France with a mix of industrial and rural settings. However, technical issues like occasional texture pop-ins and lighting inconsistencies can detract from the immersion. On the audio front, the game excels with realistic weapon sounds and a suitably tense musical score that enhances the stealth-focused gameplay. Voice acting is serviceable, though it’s unlikely to leave a lasting impression.

Multiplayer offerings remain a staple of the series, with the return of Axis Invasion mode adding a thrilling layer of unpredictability to the campaign. Competitive multiplayer supports up to 16 players, while the Survival mode provides a cooperative alternative for those seeking a team-based challenge. However, the multiplayer modes don’t deviate much from the established formula, making them feel like familiar territory for long-time fans.

Ultimately, Sniper Elite: Resistance is a solid addition to the franchise, delivering the tactical gameplay and cinematic sniping moments fans have come to expect. While its innovations are modest and some narrative elements feel underdeveloped, it remains a very enjoyable experience for those who appreciate the series’ unique blend of stealth and action. For newcomers, it’s a decent entry point, but veterans may find themselves wishing for a bit more ambition in the gameplay and storytelling departments.

Score: 7.9/10