Game review: Perfect Dark - Xbox Live Arcade

Developed by RARE, the game was very much a progression from the studio's debut title and, whilst it wasn't directly related to the previous Bond game, it bore many similarities in both its presentation and how it played.

Set in the year 2032, the gamer takes control of Joanna Dark (AKA 'Perfect Dark'), an assassin employed by the Carrington Institute. Sent to investigate strange reports from its rival faction, DataDyne, a plot eventually unfolds involving an intergalactic war between two alien races – the Maians (x-files-esque greys) and the Skedars (reptilian monsters).

The developers have done a great job in porting the game for the XBLA audience and, despite the HD makeover, they have been very faithful with this adaptation.

Despite the sheen, the presentation and controls have essentially remained the same. The one noticeable difference is that the game has been modified for dual analogue controllers – all all the better for it, it's very easy to get to grips with.

Unfortunately there are a few aspects with the controls that do highlight the fact this game is 10 years old. The absence of any ability to jump is noticeable, and it's got to be said that the aiming mechanic is a little awkward – particularly when using the sniper rifle

The level design also holds up well against its modern counterparts, but at times the proceedings do suffer from a certain lack of narrative.

Each time you complete a level, you're presented with a stats screen that shows how well you fared against your other players on your friends list.

Undeniably one of the most exciting aspects of this remake is the multiplayer and the game offers a whole host options, including 6 different game modes, 16 maps (including a handful from GoldenEye) and 43 weapons.

If you can't manage to find enough players you can test your wits against a variety of bots which can be fully customised with their own personalities. So should you feel like taking on a bunch of peace-loving, gun collecting pacifists, that option is open to you.

There is also the option to play online against up to seven other players, however most modes do suffer from a noticeable amount of lag and it's not nearly as much fun as playing against four other players in the same room, with a four-way split screen – retro-style.

The Counter-Op mode is an interesting addition as it puts a competitive spin on the story campaign – giving one player the chance to control Joanna Dark and the other players control of the enemy AI.

As mentioned earlier, the game has had a HD makeover and looks all the better for it. While it doesn't hold a candle to any of it modern counterparts, it looks miles better than the original Nintendo 64 version.

The same can't really be said for the audio. If it has had any re-touching at all it's not really noticeable. The voice acting is still wooden and the music sounds as if it's been recorded straight from the original. However, this is a minor gripe as it doesn't affect the gaming experience and, if anything, it adds a certain charm to it all. I couldn't help but smile at every time I shot a henchman and heard them whine “why me?” and “arghh! the bitch got me!”

When you consider the 800 Microsoft points the marketplace is asking for, it’s hard to not recommend Perfect Dark.

Despite a few basic flaws that highlight its age, Perfect Dark is still highly enjoyable game with a solid single player campaign and plenty of multiplayer action.

I'm keeping my fingers crossed that Rare, Nintendo and Microsoft will all sort out their differences and treat us all to GoldenEye. You know it makes sense.

Verdict: 7 out of 10

The Good

Good singleplayer campaign
Plenty of multiplayer options
Retro gaming with a HD finish

The Bad

level design a bit dated
laggy online multiplayer