Sniper Elite 5

The opinions of the critics regarding the story of Sniper Elite 5 are varied. Some critics, such as GameGrin and But Why Tho?, appreciate the way the story is told, finding it coherent and simple enough for newcomers to understand. They mention the presence of cinematic sequences throughout the campaign, which helps to engage players and provide a sense of immersion. Additionally, critics like Gamers Heroes and Xbox Achievements highlight the importance of the protagonist's mission and the portrayal of the French Resistance, which they find to be top-notch and effectively conveying the difficulty of defeating the Nazi regime. On the other hand, several critics express negative opinions about the story of Sniper Elite 5. PC Games and Dexerto describe it as cliché and trashy, presenting a prototypical evil Nazi villain and a plot centered around stopping the development of a super weapon by the Germans. They criticize the lack of thematic depth, interesting characters, and minimal cutscenes, which they feel make the story feel like an afterthought. Critics like GameSkinny and Gaming Age also mention the generic nature of the story and the lack of memorable elements, with Gaming Age even describing it as weak. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the story of Sniper Elite 5 is not its strongest aspect. While some appreciate the simplicity and coherence of the storytelling, others find it cliché, forgettable, and lacking in depth. The focus of the game seems to be more on the gameplay and the World War II setting, with the story serving as a means to an end. However, there are positive aspects, such as the portrayal of the protagonist's mission and the French Resistance, that manage to resonate with some critics. Ultimately, the story of Sniper Elite 5 may not be groundbreaking or mind-blowing, but it still provides context and enough understanding for players to progress through the game.

In analyzing the opinions of the critics regarding the gameplay of Sniper Elite 5, it is evident that there are several positive aspects highlighted by the reviewers. The gameplay is praised for its focus on stealth and infiltration, with players having the ability to choose different approaches and paths, similar to the Hitman series (PC Games, Dexerto). The sniping mechanics are a standout feature, with the ability to adjust for wind and bullet drop, and the inclusion of satisfying and gory X-Ray Killcams (Dexerto, Gaming Age). The game offers a variety of customization options, allowing players to fine-tune their weapons and adjust the difficulty and mechanics to their liking (Noisy Pixel, Gaming Age). The pseudo-open-world campaigns provide exploration opportunities, different playstyles, and replay value, with main objectives, side missions, collectibles, and challenging kill missions (GameGrin, App Trigger). However, there are also some negative aspects mentioned by the critics. Some reviewers express concerns about certain aspects of the gameplay. The close-quarters combat and gunplay are criticized for feeling light and floaty, and melee kills/takedowns are deemed repetitive (COGconnected). The enemy AI is mentioned as being unbalanced and glitchy, which can lead to frustrating experiences (Gfinity, Softpedia). Some critics also mention issues with general gunplay and movement (Dexerto, GameSpew). Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the gameplay of Sniper Elite 5 offers a satisfying and engaging experience, particularly for fans of stealth and sniping mechanics. The game provides a variety of options for players to approach missions, with adaptable gameplay loops and customization options (Cultured Vultures, Stevivor). The gameplay mechanics are praised for their tight controls, accessibility options, and the freedom to tackle situations in different ways (ZTGD). While there are some concerns raised about specific aspects such as AI behavior and certain combat mechanics, the overall sentiment is positive, with the gameplay being described as enjoyable, rewarding, and offering replayability (Xbox Achievements, PlayStation LifeStyle).

The opinions of the critics regarding the Graphics and Visual Design of Sniper Elite 5 are generally positive. Many critics praised the game for its visually impressive set pieces, large scale sandbox level design, and highly-detailed environments based on real-life locations. Critics such as Noisy Pixel and But Why Tho? highlighted the effort put into making the game visually appealing, with notable set pieces and attention to detail in replicating 1944 locales. Game Rant also commended the use of photogrammetry, which resulted in gorgeous and detailed visuals. The use of photogrammetry also brought 1944 France to life, according to GamesBeat. The X-ray kill cam animations were mentioned as a standout visual feature by Cultured Vultures and Xbox Tavern. The diverse and open level design, providing verticality and a mix of high buildings and cliff faces, was also praised by Screen Rant. However, there were some criticisms regarding the Graphics and Visual Design of Sniper Elite 5. COGconnected mentioned that while the game has updated visuals, the animations are stiff and janky. Dexerto also pointed out janky and unnatural character models and animations, as well as technical issues like clipping. PlayStation LifeStyle mentioned that while the environments were beautiful and diverse, the character animations and enemy movements can be stilted. Softpedia criticized the cinematics and graphics as dull and occasionally painful to be a part of, and mentioned that the X-ray kill camera, while enjoyable at first, becomes repetitive and slows down the game. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Sniper Elite 5 has impressive graphics and visual design, with highly-detailed environments, visually appealing set pieces, and the use of photogrammetry to bring the game to life. The game's level design, mixing aesthetics with gameplay, was also praised. However, there were some criticisms regarding stiff and janky animations, unnatural character models, technical issues, and repetitive X-ray kill cam animations. Despite these criticisms, the overall sentiment is positive, with the game being described as visually impressive, beautifully made, and having standout visual features.

The opinions of the critics regarding the sound design and music of Sniper Elite 5 are generally positive. COGconnected praises the sound design, specifically mentioning the excellent orchestral tracks and the immersive sounds of live conflict. Dexerto also commends the sound design, highlighting the booming, slow-motion explosion of a bullet leaving the chamber as a standout feature. Xbox Achievements further supports this positive sentiment, mentioning Karl Fairburne's gruff voice acting, a dramatic score, and immersive sound effects that effectively capture the atmosphere of the game. In terms of negatives, Gamers Heroes mentions that sound is a major issue in the game, without providing specific details about the music or overall sound design. This lack of information suggests that the sound issues may be more related to technical aspects rather than the actual quality of the sound design and music. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Sniper Elite 5 has a commendable sound design and music. The positive aspects highlighted include the excellent orchestral tracks, immersive sounds of live conflict, historically accurate weapon sound effects, and impactful shots and explosions. The environmental sound effects and musical score are also mentioned as effectively enhancing the gameplay experience. However, there are some mixed opinions, with Gamers Heroes suggesting that sound may be a major issue in the game. Despite this, the majority of critics express satisfaction with the audio design, supporting the notion that Sniper Elite 5 delivers a compelling and immersive sound experience.

The opinions of the critics regarding the voice acting in Sniper Elite 5 are varied. KeenGamer praises the voice acting, including the protagonist's voice, stating that it is of a high standard. This positive feedback indicates that the voice actors successfully bring the characters to life and deliver their lines with skill and authenticity. Xbox Achievements also supports this sentiment, describing Karl Fairburne's voice acting as gruff and fitting for the character, adding to the overall experience of the game. These positive opinions highlight the successful portrayal of the characters through their voices, enhancing the immersion and enjoyment of the players. On the other hand, COGconnected criticizes the voice acting in Sniper Elite 5, stating that it is horrific and lacks chemistry between the actors. This negative feedback suggests that the voice actors may have struggled to deliver convincing performances and failed to establish a believable connection between the characters. Softpedia adds to the negative feedback, mentioning that the main character's lines are dry and lack charisma. These criticisms indicate that the voice acting may have fallen short in terms of emotional depth and engaging delivery, potentially impacting the overall immersion and enjoyment of the game. Overall, the consensus among the critics regarding the voice acting in Sniper Elite 5 is mixed. While KeenGamer and Xbox Achievements appreciate the quality and fitting nature of the voice acting, COGconnected and Softpedia express disappointment with aspects such as lack of chemistry, dry lines, and lack of charisma. It is important to note that GameStar mentions the absence of a unified German dub, which may have also influenced the overall perception of the voice acting. Considering these varying opinions, it can be concluded that the voice acting in Sniper Elite 5 has both strengths and weaknesses, leaving room for improvement in certain areas.

In terms of the technical performance on PC, Hooked Gamers and Noisy Pixel both provide positive feedback. Hooked Gamers mentions that Sniper Elite 5 is well-optimized and runs smoothly, with only rare instances of stutter during cutscenes. Noisy Pixel, on the other hand, points out that there are random AI glitches that can hurt the immersion. Overall, the PC version seems to offer a relatively stable and enjoyable experience, with minor issues that do not significantly impact gameplay. Moving on to the PS5 version, there are mixed opinions among the critics. But Why Tho? reports frustrating bugs such as issues with noise cover, armor-piercing rounds, and guns getting stuck in an unending reload loop. COGconnected mentions technical issues like stiff and janky animations. Dexerto encounters sketchy mishaps such as gun not reloading, invisible barriers, and clipping, but does not provide an overall assessment of the technical performance. On the other hand, Game Rant states that the game runs smoothly on next-gen hardware with no game-breaking bugs. Gamers Heroes mentions a few bugs, such as corpses falling into boxes, but considers them non-game-breaking. PlayStation LifeStyle, however, highlights that the game is full of bugs, both minor and major, which can require save reloads or mission restarts, and recommends waiting for bug fixes before an authentic playthrough. Screen Rant mentions issues with the autosave feature and occasional glitches. Softpedia acknowledges glitchy AI but still considers Sniper Elite 5 as one of the best releases in a long time. Overall, the PS5 version seems to suffer from various technical issues, ranging from minor bugs to more significant problems that can impact gameplay. Lastly, the Xbox Series X version receives mixed feedback as well. Cultured Vultures reports a litany of glitches that hamper the overall experience, including spawning issues, clipping, and occasional inability to reload. Stevivor mentions consistent bugs but reassures that they are not too worrisome and the overall experience remains smooth and stable. Xbox Tavern acknowledges bugs, glitches, jumpy cutscenes, and invisible walls, but suggests that these issues can potentially be fixed with a patch. ZTGD, on the other hand, states that the game runs well on Series X with clean performance and a stable frame rate. While there are some negative reports of glitches and technical issues, the Xbox Series X version generally seems to offer a relatively stable experience with minor inconveniences. Taking into account the opinions of the critics, it is evident that Sniper Elite 5's technical performance varies across different gaming platforms. The PC version generally receives positive feedback, with smooth performance and rare instances of stutter. However, there are occasional AI glitches that can affect immersion. On the PS5, there are reports of frustrating bugs, stiff animations, sketchy mishaps, and a significant number of bugs that can require save reloads or mission restarts. The Xbox Series X version also experiences glitches, including spawning issues and jumpy cutscenes, but overall provides a stable and smooth experience. Considering the overall consensus of the critics, it is clear that Sniper Elite 5's technical performance has room for improvement, particularly on the PS5, where the game seems to suffer from a higher number of bugs and technical issues.

The opinions of the critics regarding the replay value of Sniper Elite 5 are generally positive. Many critics highlight the various gameplay modes and customization options as factors that contribute to the game's replayability. GameGrin mentions the numerous medals, ribbons, and customizable difficulty options, while But Why Tho? emphasizes the focus on weapon and loadout customization. Dexerto and GameSkinny both mention the replayability of missions with different objectives and collectibles. The large maps and side missions are also praised by App Trigger and ZTGD, as they provide opportunities for exploration and different approaches to gameplay. The multiplayer modes, including co-op and invasion mode, are highlighted by Noisy Pixel, GameSpew, and PlayStation LifeStyle as additional elements that enhance replay value. On the negative side, some critics mention potential frustrations with certain aspects of the game. Gfinity notes that invasions can be frustrating if the player is being invaded, while Xbox Tavern suggests that manual saving is recommended due to inconsistent auto save, which may disrupt the replay experience. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Sniper Elite 5 offers a high level of replay value. The game's customization options, diverse gameplay modes, and large maps with side missions and collectibles provide players with ample opportunities to revisit and approach levels in different ways. The multiplayer modes, including co-op and invasion mode, further extend the game's lifespan and add to its replayability. The consistent praise from critics like Gaming Age, Cultured Vultures, and Wccftech reinforces the notion that Sniper Elite 5 is a game that caters to a wide range of players and provides enjoyable and replayable experiences.