Silent Hunter III

 PC
  • Publisher: Ubisoft
  • Release Date: Mar 15, 2005
Metascore
90

Universal acclaim - based on 23 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 23 out of 23
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 23
  3. Negative: 0 out of 23
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  1. GameSpy
    100
    This is a classic game that deserves to be mentioned in the same breath as "F-19," "Longbow 2," and "European Air War."
  2. Computer Gaming World
    100
    "Dangerous Waters" is a superb modern naval combat simulator but Silent Hunter III is destined to be a Sim Hall of Fam all-time classic. [June 2005, p.94]
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  3. PC Gameworld
    94
    As it is, Silent Hunter III is easily the best submarine simulation ever made.
  5. Pelit (Finland)
    93
    Might as well be called "Das Boot - the game". Not only does it simulate the hardware realistically, the atmosphere is so thick you can almost slice it. This is exactly how simulators should be made to attract the casual crowd as well as the hardcore sim nuts. [May 05]
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  6. 3DAvenue
    92
    Without a doubt this game is a must have for any Naval Simulation fan, the flexibility in complexity has so much to offer that allows for beginner all the way through to expert.
  7. FiringSquad
    91
    The best simulation we've played in years. It retains accessibility while offering remarkable levels of detail and realism... It is visually attractive, aurally satisfying and quite simply a breathtaking experience.
  8. Boomtown
    90
    Quite simply the best submarine game ever, and it will provide months of entertainment.
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  9. Game Chronicles
    90
    A gem of a simulation game; for that matter it’s easily one of the top war games of ALL TIME.
  10. PC Gamer
    90
    A final word about the dynamic campaign: it's incredible... This mode could keep some people going for years. [June 2005, p.64]
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  11. IncGamers
    90
    The settings enable you to play either a relatively easy game war, or, for the hardcore submarine fan, enjoy a situation in which you are responsible for literally every aspect of the submarine’s function.
  12. Pelaaja (Finland)
    90
    Silent Hunter III is the "Das Boot" of gaming. An undeniable classic. [May 2005, p 86]
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  13. Computer Games Magazine
    90
    There's plenty of visceral thrill in wading into the middle of a convoy at night and letting loose with your deck gun. [July 2005, p.64]
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  14. Jolt Online Gaming UK
    90
    Invest some time in Silent Hunter III, learn how to play it properly, find out what all of the dials do and memorise all of the keyboard shortcuts and it will pay you back with countless hours of cinematic, realistic, and brilliant gameplay. But remember, this ain’t for the casual gamer.
  15. GameSpot
    89
    It lets you feel like you are a submarine captain in charge of a powerful but fragile U-boat, it provides a sobering history lesson, and the campaign makes you feel like you are a small but important part of a much larger conflict. Those are the hallmarks of a truly great simulation.
  16. IGN
    88
    Definitely worth the wait. The campaign is fantastic and the overall presentation is a sim fan's dream.
  17. PC Format
    88
    From the ridiculous to the sublime: one for fans of undersea combat. [June 2005, p.98]
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  18. Computer Games Online RO
    87
    Silent Hunter 3 is without a doubt a step forward for the series, not just regarding graphics but through the introduction of new game options as well.
  19. IC-Games
    87
    Silent Hunter III is not really my sort of game but I was totally immersed in it. It is as complete a Submarine Sim as I would think it’s possible to get.
  20. GameZone
    86
    You will be able to control almost every single aspect of what went on during World War II campaigns to see if you have what it takes to be a good commander and stay alive.
  21. Computer and Video Games
    83
    The AI puts up a good fight at the higher realism settings, and should you wish to throw caution to the wind and try manual torpedo solutions, you'll either be in maths heaven, or find your brain oozing from your ears (or both). Don't worry - it's a lot more fun than it sounds.
  22. eToychest
    80
    Peerless as a simulator, no doubt about it, but as a game it has its failings. Despite the efforts of the developers, it is doubtful that anyone who is not at least partly interested in the simulation aspects of the game will enjoy it at all.
  23. G4 TV
    80
    Strikes a careful balance between accessibility and the hideous complexity. And it looks good doing it.
  24. GamerFeed
    80
    Unless you've harbored a fantasy all your life to be a Captain of your very own submarine, you probably won't derive too much enjoyment from this exceptionally hardcore simulation.

Awards & Rankings

5
#5 Best PC Game of 2005
40
#40 Most Discussed PC Game of 2005
26
#26 Most Shared PC Game of 2005

User Reviews

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User Score
7.8

Generally favorable reviews- based on 112 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 83 out of 112
  2. Mixed: 12 out of 112
  3. Negative: 17 out of 112
  1. A.S.
    Jun 7, 2005
    9
    First, a user NO-CD patch is a must for this one. It will remove al the issues with the StarForce an let you actualy spend time playing game First, a user NO-CD patch is a must for this one. It will remove al the issues with the StarForce an let you actualy spend time playing game instaed of debuging it. Wide range of realism alow the player to adjust the game playing to best fit its skill. Still this is not a game for a causual or arcade gamer. Patrol will take long time to complete and the game becomes too familiar after some time of playing. Good thing is that you can go anywhere or do virtualy anything while you on the patrol. SH 3 world is huge, so you never have to take the same path to you patrol point.… Full Review »
  2. Budget_Security
    May 29, 2012
    5
    Without its severe flaws, this game would be a 9/10. Worth looking at if you are a mature, very patient gamer willing to put in some seriousWithout its severe flaws, this game would be a 9/10. Worth looking at if you are a mature, very patient gamer willing to put in some serious time. Still worth picking up 2012+ as there has been no really good sub-sim game since. I played it in 2011 with the GWX 3.0 mega-mod (there are newer mods but GWX is still one of the best or most polished). Setup can be difficult. I played a single career for 100 odd hours till 1943 before giving up due to the many bugs (permanent storm weather bug did it for me), but in that time I had some great and intense moments.… Full Review »
  3. BradG.
    Apr 20, 2005
    9
    Do you like having fun? Do like stuff in general? You need to buy Silent Hunter III. The only reason it doesn't get a 10 is because its Do you like having fun? Do like stuff in general? You need to buy Silent Hunter III. The only reason it doesn't get a 10 is because its a touch buggy and I HATE when games are released like that. That being said, the core of the game is outstanding. The atmosphere, gameplay, replay value, and historical accuracy are great. You can jump right in on the easy settings or rack your brain trying to get a firing solution on max difficulty. Aside from the odd bug, almost everything in this game is top notch. However, I would have personally liked to see some ships in the ports and maybe a bit of wildlife in the sea, but I'm just nit-picking. If you like anything to do with war or water you need to buy this game, even if its just to sit atop your bridge and stare at the mid-blowing water effects.… Full Review »
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