| The Most Under-Rated Game of 2009 Unfortunately, due to the very slow start of the game, and the fact that many reviewers simply don't put enough play time into a game of this length, it appears to be a much maligned game by professional critics, while many customers of the game seem to view it positively. With many developers and publishers determining the success of their titles by the aggregate review scores these days, The Saboteur is likely to remain an obscure cult classic, loved by anyone that played it, but considered a commercial failure. It's a game that takes a good deal of time to truly begin appreciating it's almost art-like quality and fun, and the slow early stages of the game are best forgotten. It very likely is one of the most under-rated games of the 2009 season, overshadowed by the likes of Assassin's Creed II, Dragon Age: Origins, and similar big name heavy hitters. For those looking for a unique look at an overused time period or just a fun rump in an open world comic book, The Saboteur is a great buy. In this case, ignore the critics and aggregate scores, just give it a try. Then petition for a sequel!
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| Graphics
- Sound - Gameplay - Depth
- Multiplayer | Reviewed
by John Del Percio |
GRAPHICS
85 % |
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The deducted points here are for the drastically reduced quality of visuals on the Xbox 360 version, and the reduced frame-rate on the PS3. The usage of color smeared black & white, the colorful world, the art style and animation generally all work well for the game. The scale really creates something unique for the visuals, and is worth of some good looks. All screen shots here are from the Xbox 360 version.
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SOUND
95 % |
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Both the in-house music reminiscent of 70's spy movies set in WWII, and the recording artist tracks create a brilliant sound-scape that's hard to forget. Ambient effects are where the should be for a game, the voice acting ranges from mediocre to great, and there's a delightful thud when your dynamite blows up a tower. What more could you ask?
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GAMEPLAY
92 % |
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Many will call it too simple. Some will say the controls are flawed. Some will argue that missions are too repetitious. The truth is the stealth saboteur gameplay is simply fun and addictive, while the missions and environments are attractive and interesting. It's hard to fail with gameplay that's both fun and addictive.
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DEPTH
84 % |
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Okay, it's not the most epic story, but it's still interesting enough with a very unique take on a game's finale (the finale alone is worth playing the game, just to see how different different can be...I can say no more without a spoiler, however.) There's no major points for story here, but no major deductions either. It's solid, stable, and effective, but captivating. While the game isn't stirringly deep either in terms of story or gameplay, there's a layer of self determined depth that's intrinsic to any sandbox game. For this score I'm considering the overall addictive nature of the game to contribute to its depth. Any non-arcade style game that can pull you in and keep you there, has some measure of below the surface depth.
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MULTIPLAYER
0 % |
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N/A
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I happen to love big open sandbox games. There's a great thrill of finding a mission to jump into attached ot the main world. There's something about the usually not-too-challenging gameplay and building up with ever more abilities that makes it fun. But some games just make this process as dry as a saltine. I don't deny the flaws in The Saboteur, but there's certainly enough mix of fun to make it a game I'd pick up again in the future. It's not the same tired old ultra serious WWII game, it's a completely different take on a comic adventure set in occupied Paris. It's a shame that it is almost certain to never see a true franchise and sequel...it's a game that more than deserves a second chance.
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