Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell

GamePro

While the PS2's levels are noticeably shorter than those of the Xbox version, their design hasn't changed and the overall gameplay remains completely intact, making this game a wonderful adventure within the Tom Clancy universe.

G4 TV

With a gentler learning curve, an extra level, tweaked controls, and completely reworked cinemas, the PS2 version is the equal of its Xbox predecessor.

GameNow

It's an uncomfortably tense, uncannily realistic stealth game that's arguably better than "Metal Gear Solid 2." [May 2003, p.47]

GameZone

Takes stealth action and realism to all new jaw-dropping heights in this game that’s just too good to pass up.

Game Chronicles

The bar has been set and this will be the new standard to beat for all future stealth combat games.

Gamezilla!

A game that not only redefines the stealth game genre, but a game that is destined to live on as a milestone in the evolution of gaming. What "Doom" did for the world of gaming in the early 90’s; Splinter Cell has done for the 00’s.

GameSpy

Where the PS2 version really shines is in the control department. The controls become almost second nature after only a few minutes of running around.

Gamers' Temple

The control is top-notch. Some of the moves you do rely on very precise movements and you always feel that you are in total control.

IGN

Do you want a more balanced game that plays better, is a little easier, has an extra level, and tells a better story [PS2 version], or the prettier, more difficult game that is a little less user-friendly, but has downloadable content [Xbox]? The choice is yours.

Official U.S. Playstation Magazine

It may well be the best-looking PS2 game yet. [May 2003, p.89]

Eurogamer

Most obviously, the control system on the PS2 is far more intuitive and user friendly than the comparatively clunky original that suffered from a hateful inventory management system.

PSM Magazine

Hyper realistic, intense, and packed with awesome gadgets. Not as polished as "MGS2," but the core gameplay is more involving. [May 2003, p.30]

Games Radar UK (Pre-2006)

Superior to the Xbox version in every way... Massively enjoyable yet enormously painful, Splinter Cell is a serious game whose brilliant realism should shake up a few complacent gamers. [PS2 MAX]

Electronic Gaming Monthly

The excellent stealth gameplay, tangible sense of danger, and believable scenario (take that, "MGS2") render this a must-play experience. [May 2003, p.120]

Armchair Empire

With some very well laid out levels, solid gameplay, and nice functional visuals, PS2 owners are presented with a fantastic title worthy of a place in their library.

Game Informer

The graphics, while inferior overall compared to the Xbox version, benefit from added effects such as enhanced heat distribution, reflective surfaces, and focus blurring. [Apr 2003, p.82]

GameSpot

You'll have a great time experimenting with and effectively using Sam Fisher's variety of moves and gadgets, and the game's big missions should provide a significant challenge.

TotalGames.net

Half the fun came from picking out each light in an area before flipping on the night vision and having some fun with any gullible goons.

GMR Magazine

Textures are muddier, the framerate is choppier, lighting effects are faked (faked well, but hey), and the image quality isn't as clean. [May 2003, p.71]

PSX Nation

This is an above-average port that tries to compensate for its reduced difficulty and average visuals with minor improvements (new level, binoculars, etc.) that have dumbed-down the XBox version’s stealth-reliant gameplay a little bit.

GamingTrend

Good game, Good graphics. Not as good as "Metal Gear Solid 2." Not enough content. Kind of short.

Village Voice

If this game were any more realistic, you'd have to hold in your farts.

Gamestyle

It manages to deliver new ideas and concepts, but ultimately fails to make the classic impact; hopefully the sequel can build upon the good work here.

GamingWorld X

This is one of those games you’ll sit down to play for 45 minutes and then realise you’re 2 hours from the end without even an inkling of the time spent on the game.