Marrakesh, based on what I’ve played so far:
- More linear structure, in the sense that there are two enclosed areas you can only access in a small number of ways. However, upon playing the level for a while I realized these areas had more access points than I initially thought (including one I don’t think the developers planned), so this isn't as big of a problem as I thought at first.Marrakesh, based on what I’ve played so far:
- More linear structure, in the sense that there are two enclosed areas you can only access in a small number of ways. However, upon playing the level for a while I realized these areas had more access points than I initially thought (including one I don’t think the developers planned), so this isn't as big of a problem as I thought at first.
- The guards seem very responsive in this level. I started a firefight in the middle of the bazar, and guards came pouring in from all over the level to stop it. Civilians reacted appropriately too, cowering, running away and/or alerting the guards. In general, there is a much better sense of being hunted and tracked whenever you’re spotted. Guards don’t seem to forget your presence as quickly, and there are a lot more of them in this level, which leads me to my next point.
- The difficulty level is higher in Marrakesh than in Paris and Sapienza. It’s easier to get killed and harder to pull off a clean run. I usually always ♥♥♥♥ it up at some point, provided I don’t reload the game (which I don’t, because I’m a true veteran).
- Sniping is as fun as ever, and Marrakesh provides some really satisfying sniping opportunities.
- There are ways to lure your targets out of their hiding spots. This makes replaying the level a lot more fun, as you can technically complete it without entering one of the two heavily guarded areas, instead making your marks come to you (makes you feel like a real manipulator and master strategist).
- A very large number of guards and NPC’s see through your disguise this time. In the embassy area, almost everyone will recognize you’re not one of their own if you move too close to them. The abandoned school also has its fair share of acute guards. Contributes to the increased difficulty level and the game is better for it, in my opinon.
- I’ve only reached a level mastery of 10, but so far the items you’re rewarded with are underwhelming. Combat knives and unsilenced pistols? I was hoping for dual silverballers and rifle suitcases.
- All in all, it seems there are less opportunities and kill options in this level, which is disappointing. I can’t know for sure, though, as I’ve disabled all hints and descriptions.
- The visuals, sounds and general presentation is an odd mix of really good things and really bad things. I think the level looks good and feels alive and has really nice ambient sounds. The protesting area in particular is well realized. However, everyone speaks English with an American accent. This was somewhat excusable in the first two levels, seeing as they at least take place in the West, but in Morocco it’s ♥♥♥♥ing jarring. Having an NPC greet me with “salam aleikum” in the most American voice you can imagine is as dumb as it sounds.
All in all, I think this level is pretty good. It's not quite as non linear and packed with options as Sapienza, but the increased difficulty and more realistic AI makes up for it.… Expand