Sniper Elite: Resistance review - brilliantly bloody and bloody brilliant

Sniper Elite: Resistance - Everything You Need to Know

The latest installment in Rebellion Developments' acclaimed Sniper Elite series, Sniper Elite: Resistance, dropped on January 30, 2025. Available on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, and PC, this new chapter transports players to the tense and volatile environment of Vichy France in 1944. With its signature mix of stealth, tactics, and long-range precision, the game promises fans of the series another thrilling adventure behind enemy lines.

The Storyline and Setting

This time around, players take on the role of Harry Hawker, an agent of Britain’s Special Operations Executive (SOE). The story kicks off as Hawker is sent on a dangerous mission to assist the French Resistance in their fight against Nazi oppression. The stakes are high: the Nazis are reportedly developing a new "Wunderwaffe," or wonder weapon, that could potentially alter the course of World War II.

As Hawker, players must infiltrate heavily guarded enemy territories, sabotage key installations, and gather intelligence, all while working alongside resistance fighters to dismantle the Nazi war machine from within.

Gameplay Features

Sniper Elite: Resistance maintains the core elements that have made the franchise a fan favorite: tactical combat, open-ended missions, and, of course, the iconic X-ray kill cam. However, Rebellion has also introduced several new features to freshen up the gameplay experience.

Tactical Flexibility

The game offers multiple infiltration and extraction points for each mission, encouraging players to choose their approach. Whether you prefer a stealthy reconnaissance route or a more direct, guns-blazing strategy, the game’s sandbox design lets you adapt your tactics to each situation.

Weapon Customization

Players can customize a variety of authentic World War II weaponry, including sniper rifles, pistols, and explosives. Upgrades allow for improved accuracy, damage, and handling, giving players the tools they need to survive and succeed on the battlefield.

Co-op and Multiplayer Modes

For those who enjoy cooperative play, the entire campaign can be experienced with a friend. Additionally, the popular "Axis Invasion" mode from Sniper Elite 5 makes its return, allowing players to invade others’ campaigns as enemy snipers. Competitive multiplayer also supports up to 16 players, offering a range of game modes from team deathmatch to objective-based skirmishes.

Propaganda Missions

A new addition to the series, Propaganda Missions are time-based challenges unlocked by collecting propaganda posters scattered throughout the main campaign. These missions provide extra rewards and a chance to test players’ skills in high-pressure scenarios.

Early Reception

Initial reviews for Sniper Elite: Resistance have been mixed. Critics have praised the game’s core mechanics, particularly the satisfying sniping and strategic gameplay. Eurogamer called it “brilliantly bloody,” highlighting the game’s engaging sandbox design and dynamic combat scenarios.

However, others, including Polygon, have expressed disappointment, citing a lack of innovation and repetitive mission design. Critics have noted that while the gameplay remains solid, the story and new protagonist fail to deliver the same impact as previous entries in the series.

Availability and Platforms

Sniper Elite: Resistance is now available for purchase across major platforms, including Steam, the PlayStation Store, and the Xbox Store. The game is also accessible through Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass subscriptions, giving players a chance to jump into the action without the upfront cost.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're a longtime fan of the Sniper Elite series or a newcomer intrigued by tactical stealth gameplay, Sniper Elite: Resistance offers an immersive experience set against the backdrop of one of history's most dangerous periods. While it may not reinvent the wheel, its combination of tense sniper combat, cooperative play, and historical intrigue ensures that there’s plenty to enjoy for both single-player and multiplayer enthusiasts.

Prepare your rifles, steady your aim, and join the Resistance today!