Review: Syphon Filter: Dark Mirror
Format: PSPPublisher: Sony Computer Entertainment Europe
Release Date: Out Now
No-one really noticed when this spy thriller was released to virtually no fanfare in early September. Almost no-one. FFWD’s gamer-in-residence takes a look at this portable action game that’s promising to be the sleeper hit of the season.
Syphon Filter: Dark Mirror thrusts players into the role of Gabe Logan, an über-spy working for a covert US government operation that doesn’t officially exist. So far, so predictable, but there’s a lot more to this tactical shooter than silly action hero names and derivative plotlines.
The basic aim of the game is to infiltrate a series of high-security locations using a vast array of clever spy gadgets, including a sniper rifle that fires nerve gas, goggles that detect electrical signals, and a grappling-hook thingy. Some of the action is fairly straightforward, just getting from A to B without getting shot, but a nice amount of variety keeps the game interesting – particularly satisfying is a scene early in the game where you have to use your sniper rifle to keep a colleague alive as waves of terrorists close in on her position.
Perhaps the game’s best point is the control system – it’s amazingly easy to pick up and within ten minutes you’ll be leaping over boxes, shimmying down zip wires and gunning down terrorist scum, just like a real spy. The programmers were kind enough to include three short training missions, at the end of which you’ll feel confident about taking on the story mode without getting confused.
The graphics and sound are decent, and the video cutscenes that break up the action and advance the storyline are attractive, relevant and entertaining. Plot-wise, there’s a conspiracy afoot, and what begins as a straightforward infiltration mission rapidly turns into a life-or death struggle that reaches to the highest levels of power. It’s cheesy stuff, but good voice acting and reasonable (ish) dialogue means it feels like you’re playing the lead in a medium-budget Hollywood spy thriller.
On top of the single player experience Dark Mirror also has some excellent multi-player modes, including online play over wireless internet, and a free game demo that you can download to a friend’s console.
Syphon Filter: Dark Mirror has loads to offer PSP owners looking for something other than the standard driving/sports game – it’s dead easy to play, great to look at and is varied enough to stay interesting throughout. Highly recommended.
Gaz Deaves
Related Links:
us.playstation.com
