Sniper Elite: Resistance review

• Available on PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S and PC
• Released on 28 January 2025
• Developed by Rebellion

There’s nothing quite like lining up the perfect long-range shot in a Sniper Elite game, especially when the x-ray kill cam kicks in and shows the brutal, bone-shattering result. After so many entries, you’d expect it to lose its charm. But after spending hours with Sniper Elite: Resistance, I can confirm: it’s still as satisfying as ever.

Set alongside the events of Sniper Elite 5, Resistance introduces a new lead: Harry Hawker, a gruff, budget Jason Statham type. Don’t worry, Karl Fairburne fans: this isn’t a numbered sequel but more of a side story, explaining why Karl’s not here. He can’t be in two places at once, after all.

The plot isn’t exactly groundbreaking: Germans are building a super weapon, and you’re tasked with stopping it with the help of the resistance. What makes it shine is the freedom you’re given. Whether you want to be a ghost in the shadows, silently sabotaging and sniping, or storm in with guns blazing, the choice is yours. And that flexibility is part of what makes the Sniper Elite formula so enduring.

In truth, this does feel more like a standalone expansion than a true sequel. It shares most features with Sniper Elite 5, including modes like Axis Invasion, where another player can drop into your game and hunt you down. You’ve also got sandbox-style missions that let you complete objectives however you like, in any order you want. With unlockable starting points and workbench upgrades, there’s replay value baked in.

Yes, it’s familiar, but for fans, that’s half the appeal. There’s still a lot to dig into, and the game remains highly customizable. You can tailor your experience with a wide range of difficulty options, adjusting everything from enemy awareness to bullet physics. Whether you’re a veteran or totally new to the series, there’s a way to make it work for you.

That said, a few rough edges keep this from perfection. The AI can be laughably bad at times, breaking immersion just when you’re getting into the groove. The cover system is also hit-and-miss, with occasional hiccups like Harry getting stuck on small scenery or refusing to climb waist-high walls.

Visually, it’s a mixed bag. While some textures look crisp, outdated animations give it a slightly retro feel — like a remastered PS3 title. It runs smoothly (especially on PS5 Pro), but it definitely shows its budget roots in the presentation department.

Still, if you’re here for the sniping, Sniper Elite: Resistance delivers. The core gameplay loop is as addictive as ever, and the freedom to approach missions your own way keeps things engaging. It might not be pushing the series forward, but for fans and newcomers alike, this is another solid excuse to snipe Nazis from across the map—and yes, the nut shots are still gruesomely hilarious.