After playing a recent preview build of Syphon Filter: Dark Mirror for the PSP, I must say that the game holds a lot of promise for fans of the stealth-action genre, regardless of the fact that it’s appearing on a handheld system. Not only does Dark Mirror feature a single-player campaign with 28 missions, putting most of the console-based stealth games to shame, but it also has online multiplayer action. Add some bonus unlockables, and there’s a whole lot of Syphon Filter to look forward to on the PSP.
The multiplayer portions are divided into three main types: deathmatch, team deathmatch and rogue agent. In the rogue agent mode, one player assumes the role of the rogue, the only player in this mode who can score points for killing the other players. Much like the Juggernaut mode in Halo 2, players become the rogue agent by killing the player who originally is christened the rogue, at which point you become the rogue agent and can begin racking up points.
When it’s released, Syphon Filter: Dark Mirror will also include an objective-based multiplayer mode that fans of Counter-Strike will be familiar with. In this mode, one team will try to plant a bomb at the bombsite, while the other team tries to disarm the bomb before it goes off. The PSP headset will also be supported, adding even more depth to the team play, and it’s a shame I wasn’t able to test this mode out … it sounds awesome.
In spite of being a preview build, the version we saw of Syphon Filter: Dark Mirror looks so crisp on the PSP that the level of detail was easily on par with most retail games. The character models are sharp and well designed, and the animations are smooth and natural. And of course, it wouldn’t be an action game without exploding barrels of fuel, so let’s give credit to the developers for including good-looking barrels throughout each level.
Since we have all become accustom to controlling our shooters with two thumbsticks, it will only take you about five minutes to get a feel for the control layout of the PSP. The left analog stick is used to move left, right, forward and back, while the right directional buttons are used to aim your gun and look around. The left directional buttons, meanwhile, are used to open your inventory and access your many gadgets, including the ever-important night-vision goggles.
Even though we played a simple preview build, the gameplay and detail of Syphon Filter: Dark Mirror makes it one game that all stealth-action gamers should add to their “must watch” list. If the game lives up to the promise of its preview build, stealth-action fans have plenty to be excited about.
— Randie Kilgore
