Sniper Elite: Resistance, the latest installment in Rebellion Developments' acclaimed tactical shooter series, was released on January 30, 2025, for PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Windows PC, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S. This new chapter introduces players to a fresh protagonist, Harry Hawker, an agent of the Special Operations Executive (SOE), as he embarks on a mission deep within Nazi-occupied France during World War II. The narrative runs parallel to the events of Sniper Elite 5, focusing on Hawker's collaboration with the French Resistance to thwart the development of a formidable Nazi superweapon known as the "Wunderwaffe."
Gameplay and Mechanics
Staying true to its roots, Sniper Elite: Resistance emphasizes stealth, tactical combat, and precise sniping mechanics. Players navigate expansive, open-ended levels that offer multiple approaches to objectives, encouraging strategic planning and adaptability. The game retains its signature X-Ray Kill Cam, providing a visceral depiction of bullet impacts on enemy anatomy, a feature that has been both celebrated for its realism and critiqued for its graphic nature.
The arsenal includes a range of authentic World War II weaponry, which can be extensively customized to suit individual playstyles. Players must consider factors such as gravity, wind, and heart rate to execute the perfect shot, adding layers of realism to the sniping experience. Additionally, the game introduces "Propaganda Missions," where players can step into the shoes of French Resistance fighters, completing time-sensitive objectives to undermine Nazi operations.
Multiplayer and Additional Features
The fan-favorite "Axis Invasion" mode makes a return, allowing players to invade another's campaign as an Axis sniper, adding a competitive edge to the single-player experience. For those inclined towards cooperative gameplay, the entire campaign can be played in co-op mode, enabling players to share weapons, items, and tactical strategies. The game also supports a 16-player competitive multiplayer mode, offering various game types and challenges to test players' skills against others worldwide.
Critical Reception
Upon release, Sniper Elite: Resistance received mixed reviews from critics. While the game's sniping mechanics and level design were praised, some reviewers noted a lack of innovation compared to previous entries in the series. The new protagonist, Harry Hawker, was seen by some as lacking depth, and the storyline was critiqued for not fully capitalizing on the potential of its setting and characters.
Conclusion
Sniper Elite: Resistance offers a familiar yet refined experience for fans of the series, delivering the tactical sniping and stealth mechanics that have become its hallmark. While it may not revolutionize the franchise, it provides a solid and engaging journey into the covert battles of World War II's European theater.
