SiN Episodes: Emergence

 PC
User Score
8.1

Generally favorable reviews- based on 437 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 307 out of 437
  2. Mixed: 99 out of 437
  3. Negative: 31 out of 437
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  1. AllenB.
    Jun 1, 2006
    9
    This game gets back to the roots of shooters, killing badguys, and lots of them, I've personally played throgh this twice, and though it's lacking somewhat in weapon selection, the three you have are enough to get the job done. Mainly the game is a lot of fun, and it's short as well, for those who like to finish these things on one sitting.
  2. A.Ashley
    Jun 1, 2006
    8
    Very good game, not great like a Half Life 2, but excellent storyline. Would definately recommend to others. It follows along perfectly with the original SiN (no pun intended). Got my money's worth. Definately looking forward to more episodes.
  3. JamesK.
    Jun 1, 2006
    9
    jumping and movement sucks at times but the general gameplay is great and the story seems to keep yea wanting more the whole time cant wait for the next.
  4. RayS.
    Jun 1, 2006
    9
    Great single player game overall. Very unique take on the half-life system, and definately an improvement. Alot of action and smooth controls make this game adicting and enjoyable.
  5. FairD.
    Jun 1, 2006
    10
    This is a good game. Perhaps not a 10, but I gave it a 10 to make up for all the uneducated hormonally-imbalanced pre-adults who thought with their genitals and gave it a 1 rating.
  6. JarredW.
    Jun 1, 2006
    8
    Not bad, but not great either. The end battle (climbing a tower and winning the final fight) was pretty reminiscent of HL2's conclusion. $20 for 5-6 hours of game play, vs. $60 for 20-30 hours with HL2? Yeah, episodic content is great... for making money. Longer episodes, please!
  7. AnonymousMC
    Jun 1, 2006
    8
    Emergence is a bit like eating a jam doughnut.
    Short but delicious.
    Although gettting Sugar all over your face, and jam squirting out on the floor is annoying. It's perfectly long enough(about 6 hrs) for the amount it cost. Plenty to shoot at. Beginnings of a decent storyline - lthough it doesnt really kick in till half way. My only real gries are - you seem to    Emergence is a bit like eating a jam doughnut.
    Short but delicious.
    Although gettting Sugar all over your face, and jam squirting out on the floor is annoying.

    It's perfectly long enough(about 6 hrs) for the amount it cost.
    Plenty to shoot at.
    Beginnings of a decent storyline - lthough it doesnt really kick in till half way.

    My only real gries are
    - you seem to spend an age with just a pistol.
    - SMG and shotgun are a bit weedy and randomn
    - Too long fighting the same grunts.
    - Bit too linear - Im getting real fed up of locked doors
    - bland interiors and level design - especially at the beginning    … Expand
  8. SilverW.
    Jun 1, 2006
    7
    very enjoyable, could be a bit tougher. I got used to the concept of the limited number of weapons. The 'looks & feel' are good. Lookin forward to the next episode.
  9. PaulM.
    Jun 1, 2006
    8
    Good game, 2 very nasty end of level bad guy types, other than that a nice play.
  10. TheHooks
    May 31, 2006
    4
    Reminded me of a game released in 98-99 How can this come out after HL2 and on Steam and be so bland? Worst game on Steam in my opinion. At least Rag Doll was fresh. I want my money back too. I dropped a barrel on a friendly guys head and he yelled ouch and sort of stared at me. HL2 got it right with the small details that draw you in that are not present in Sin.
  11. PS
    May 31, 2006
    6
    This is far too short, even if it is going to be episodic in format. I would rather wait several more months and get a complete game. 0 replayability with this one...and by the time the next episode comes out, I won't even remember what the hell is going on. Pretty graphics, and OK weps. The best part about this game was the boobie physics, and how they applied to the female antagonist.
  12. MattR.
    May 31, 2006
    5
    Have any of you people ever played a good shooter or are you just being nice to the creators? Anyone that put below a 6, I can echo the same thoughts, this game came subpair. Repetition, "non-learning" AI, and more monotonus gameplay. Sure it looks pretty, expecially Elexis, but that doesn't make a game. There really should be no green scores here sadly, I had some good hopes for Have any of you people ever played a good shooter or are you just being nice to the creators? Anyone that put below a 6, I can echo the same thoughts, this game came subpair. Repetition, "non-learning" AI, and more monotonus gameplay. Sure it looks pretty, expecially Elexis, but that doesn't make a game. There really should be no green scores here sadly, I had some good hopes for this game too. Save the money, too much for what should be a mod.… Expand
  13. SteveD.
    May 31, 2006
    9
    Great game, if you have played the original SiN and enjoyed it then this game is definatly for you. The gameplay was fast and intense, with the difficulty on medium the game is more of a challenge. Great visual effects. The game is powered by the Source engine wich made it eben better! Secrets hidden in levels made me play them over and over again. Only flaw was: No updated multiplayer, Great game, if you have played the original SiN and enjoyed it then this game is definatly for you. The gameplay was fast and intense, with the difficulty on medium the game is more of a challenge. Great visual effects. The game is powered by the Source engine wich made it eben better! Secrets hidden in levels made me play them over and over again. Only flaw was: No updated multiplayer, wich made me pretty angry because I loved the original SiN multiplayer. Hopefully the second episode will include multiplayer and will be a bit longer, SiN Emergance was a bit short. Overall it is a great game and I higly recommend it to all SiN fans and gamers who are new to the SiN universe.… Expand
  14. DBrown
    May 31, 2006
    3
    Sorry but I'm not impressed. 1. Lovely scenery (very nice mountains nudge nudge) but nothing happening in it. I wish my office block was as empty as the ones in this game. The only time you see a "joe public" or worker they cower in the corner. 2. I realise you need to ease people into the game, but dont sudenly ramp up the dificulty 3. Half life 2 let you be a real weasel with Sorry but I'm not impressed. 1. Lovely scenery (very nice mountains nudge nudge) but nothing happening in it. I wish my office block was as empty as the ones in this game. The only time you see a "joe public" or worker they cower in the corner. 2. I realise you need to ease people into the game, but dont sudenly ramp up the dificulty 3. Half life 2 let you be a real weasel with setting traps. But the AI in this game gets stuck behind doors and trying to get past the numerous barrels and boxs. Classic example : stick the chairs and bins infront of the 6 lift doors, wait, lob a grenade or two , done! lather, rise, repeat. 4. Mutagen barrels and bullet time. Waste of time. 5. Boss's - stick a puzzle in or some part of the environment that can be used against them (come over here ugly dude so that the nice crane can fall on you). 6. Not really and open environment just a very set path. To many locked doors. Whats wrong with me picking my own way through a building. Overall I'm not impressed. I've played it through and I've ramped up the difficulty and played it again. I've played it with only one gun (very hard later on) but now I feel like thats it, might as well remove it. Episode based games may seem like a good idea but people are going to pay their money, play a short game and then have to wait however long for another and to be honest the story line ain't making me wet myself for the next one. If Valves half life offering doesn't raise the bar then I think episode based games could have a very short life (in more ways than one).… Expand
  15. ShannonM.
    May 31, 2006
    4
    too short, not enough weapons, no flashlight, controls are not set for easy access even though it is mappable.
  16. JeZZyBaLL
    May 31, 2006
    10
    Sin fans re-joice. This is only the beginning episode and sure to be Multiplayer from the development team that delivers and listens to it's fans. Ritual has consistently stayed in touch with the past and pushes features and creativity in it's new releases. Episode One delivered the fun. Stay tuned for Arena Mode (Single Player) and more (Multiplayer expected) before Episode 2. Sin fans re-joice. This is only the beginning episode and sure to be Multiplayer from the development team that delivers and listens to it's fans. Ritual has consistently stayed in touch with the past and pushes features and creativity in it's new releases. Episode One delivered the fun. Stay tuned for Arena Mode (Single Player) and more (Multiplayer expected) before Episode 2. Missing this would be like not knowing who the hell Tony Soprano is.… Expand
  17. ertertwert
    May 30, 2006
    10
    SiN Episodes: Emergence is a great game. Looking forward to Episode 2.
  18. GaryS.
    May 30, 2006
    8
    The first Steam based episodic game. Could have been better but could have been far worse. Future episodes of this and other games released this way should see a fine tuning of the quality and gameplay.
  19. AnonymousMC
    May 30, 2006
    8
    A very solid game. With the latest updates to the AI, it works much better now. The learning curve AI does need work, but is very unique. I would prefer smarter enemies along with tougher enemies, not just tougher enemies. However, they can still manage to pull a fast one on me when they spawn behind me, or below me.

    The weapon selection was a little short, but I don't think you    A very solid game. With the latest updates to the AI, it works much better now. The learning curve AI does need work, but is very unique. I would prefer smarter enemies along with tougher enemies, not just tougher enemies. However, they can still manage to pull a fast one on me when they spawn behind me, or below me.

    The weapon selection was a little short, but I don't think you really need too many more weapons than that. I can handle the selection for the time being. Besides, nothings more funny then taking down a chopper with a pistol!

    Graphics wise, it wasn't too bad. They sure did a lot of work on Elexis. In some respects, it might have been a better idea to not go overly gung ho on the graphics (which is so common these days).

    This is a start to an interesting storyline. I'm excited to see where they will take it.    … Expand
  20. Luigi
    May 30, 2006
    6
    Few biggest mistakes: - The world is justso dull and dead. - Enemies are just spawning forever. Thisos allowable for a game whe you can take 9999 hits and still living. But here is just an excuse for develper's lazyness. - Small arsenal of weapons.
  21. HenricA.
    May 30, 2006
    4
    It felt more like a MOD than a commercial game (albeit a short one). Why did it feel like a MOD then? - Graphics weren't impressive at all (not representative of 2006 levels), felt too cartoony. - Leveldesign were very square(ish). - Player control felt like iceskating (hard to aim when the character keeps moving long after you stopped pressing the keys) - The AI was stupid, enemies It felt more like a MOD than a commercial game (albeit a short one). Why did it feel like a MOD then? - Graphics weren't impressive at all (not representative of 2006 levels), felt too cartoony. - Leveldesign were very square(ish). - Player control felt like iceskating (hard to aim when the character keeps moving long after you stopped pressing the keys) - The AI was stupid, enemies almost walking past you and not reacting as one would expect when you start to attack them (which normally is good, but in this case it means that they hardly take cover nor work as a team) - The automagical scaling of toughness boiled down to how many of the toughest enemy you'd face at once. - Five maybe six distinct enemies. And no variation within the enemies (all enemies of a certain model behaved the same, most other games use few enemy models but do behave differently) These are what I consider the major flaws. There were ofcourse many minor ones aswell (such as Jessica getting into the car without opening the door, but animated as she opened the door... looked silly) All in all, unless you liked the original or want the original version (since it's included) this is a game to avoid. Lets put it this way, I won't be buying the next episode.… Expand
  22. BrianD.
    May 30, 2006
    10
    this continues where the previous SIN stopped. only after seven years Jessica and JC are grownup. but still fighting with you against the evil but beautiful Elexis Sinclair. Terrific graphics and puzzles in this top class shooter ! a real must have for al the first person shooters!
  23. JB
    May 29, 2006
    1
    Fairly okay graphics and that's it. Gameplay, level design and the awful weapons are much worse than the original Sin. What made them think this game was up to par with today's titles? I want my money back.
  24. JonB.
    May 29, 2006
    7
    Nice set pieces good use of light, reasonable gameplay , bit too straight line.
  25. AlexS.
    May 29, 2006
    7
    I
  26. Mike
    May 29, 2006
    9
    Fun game! Just to short and needs more freedom through out the levels.
  27. TonyM.
    May 28, 2006
    8
    Beautiful game. The story needs more work. The characters need to be more refined. What happened with the self destruct! I wanted to see something blow up. I can see a lot of work went into this, very nicely done overall.
  28. TylerD.
    May 28, 2006
    9
    I think it was a wonderful game. It was well paced, fun, and doesn't take itself too seriously. The only issue I had with it was not being able to fire out of the car window, a single-shot mode on the rifle would have been good too. I'll definately buy part 2.
  29. MaximeR.
    May 28, 2006
    10
    Great game. glad the source engine was use to make a beautiful game again.
  30. KoryS.
    May 28, 2006
    5
    Overall, not a great game. The story line's as thin as the first game and the overall game play time is thinner than could be expected for $20. They promised an extremely interactive environment, but more or less gave us a linear way to use that environment, not really allowing us to think about what we need to do next. Simply put, if you like mindless shooters-get this game. If you Overall, not a great game. The story line's as thin as the first game and the overall game play time is thinner than could be expected for $20. They promised an extremely interactive environment, but more or less gave us a linear way to use that environment, not really allowing us to think about what we need to do next. Simply put, if you like mindless shooters-get this game. If you like mindless shooters that look fantastic-don't get this game.… Expand
  31. ClintE.
    May 27, 2006
    8
    Gameplay is fun. Can be frustrating at times. Your weapons can feel underpowered. Level design is very nice.
  32. NigelB.
    May 27, 2006
    9
    a shame it's a bit short, but I'm assuming there will be more coming as it's entitled episode 1; great game based on the HL2 engine, engoyed this more than HL2 itself. great use of pyshics engine, good gums and loads of bad guys. And the evil lady vilian, all I can say is HOT.
  33. HonestTruth
    May 27, 2006
    7
    When will the games industry learn that we have arms? In real life, if we want to do something as simple as climb up onto a box, we
  34. Chili
    May 27, 2006
    5
    Good game, but... 1) too short for the price 2) not very challenging On the positive side, 1) story line is good 2) graphics are great.
  35. Shawn
    May 27, 2006
    9
    Awesome for all you SiN fans! (myself included) It is all you could hope for in continuing storyline of SiN. LOL the negative critism is funny. Most of the people seem confused on the concept of Episodes. For those not certain a TV episode is usually 30 minutes (when uninterrupted by commericals) and has much less quality than a 2 hour motion picture. But ultimately the story goes on much Awesome for all you SiN fans! (myself included) It is all you could hope for in continuing storyline of SiN. LOL the negative critism is funny. Most of the people seem confused on the concept of Episodes. For those not certain a TV episode is usually 30 minutes (when uninterrupted by commericals) and has much less quality than a 2 hour motion picture. But ultimately the story goes on much longer in episodes because of duration... unless its Friday 13th or Scary Movie LOL. The price and quality is great. 4 to 6 hours of game play entertainment for the same price as a DVD with 2 hours of entertainment. But i'm thinking people will get it when HL2: Episodes comes out. Hey its not for everyone, I can see that right off. But for me, the whole concept is great. I will definitely be getting SiN Episode 2.… Expand
  36. BoS.
    May 27, 2006
    9
    to all those who say its to short: its short because its not a full game its episodic content... its meant to be short.. okay..?!? only thing i can say i missed was blades talk... he talked a lot in sin and wages of sin but here it was a bit to silent in this one.. sound was great a few stuttering issues but thats something to do with the source engine.. that valve made.. all in all this to all those who say its to short: its short because its not a full game its episodic content... its meant to be short.. okay..?!? only thing i can say i missed was blades talk... he talked a lot in sin and wages of sin but here it was a bit to silent in this one.. sound was great a few stuttering issues but thats something to do with the source engine.. that valve made.. all in all this game is great and i especially like it being episodic meaning that the next game comes out in a few months.… Expand
  37. DavidV.
    May 27, 2006
    9
    I like the game!! I played the old game like a boy with a new toy. So i like the new one aswel. Greetz keep up the good work.
  38. KristianE.
    May 26, 2006
    6
    I suppose this would have been a great game 10 years ago, but I feel it's a little naive in 2006. The graphics might be acceptable, but the difficulty and length of the game is too short and way too easy. Ofcause there are a few good features, like dead men floates on water, but the AI is equvilent to a 10 year old. The story and gameplay ......well. All in all I find it a bit thin.
  39. NoRefunds
    May 26, 2006
    6
    Remember back in the day when you could get a chapter of a game as a demo or shareware release? Then you paid if you wanted the rest of the game? Well this distribution model has done away with the "try before you buy" idea. Frankly, if every chapter is $20, this model is gouging the consumer. I'm not buying the next chapters. Instead, I will wait for a compilation release that gives Remember back in the day when you could get a chapter of a game as a demo or shareware release? Then you paid if you wanted the rest of the game? Well this distribution model has done away with the "try before you buy" idea. Frankly, if every chapter is $20, this model is gouging the consumer. I'm not buying the next chapters. Instead, I will wait for a compilation release that gives you the complete game at a reduced price. I like the idea of episodes, I dislike the execution.… Expand
  40. AlexanderR.
    May 25, 2006
    9
    The graphics were stunning, the gameplay awesome and the environment was amazing. There were a few bugs but with time they will be fixed. This is a game that will keep me busy for hours on end. I'm defiantly looking forward for the second episode.
  41. MichaelP.
    May 24, 2006
    7
    The Gameplay was solid, need more weapons, players gun needs to be just a little more powerful to face some of the guys, also a coop option would also be nice so you could play it with a friend.
  42. [Anonymous]
    May 23, 2006
    8
    Excellent quality, game looks very nice. I especially like the squelching sounds when people hit poles from 30 feet up in the air :) Definately looking at purchasing this game.
  43. JakeB.
    May 23, 2006
    0
    Honestly, I'd give this game a 7.25. Anyone that gives this a 10 needs to wear a helmet. 10=best game ever 9=great game 8=above average 7=average 6=below average and pretty much 5 and below is just crap, 0 being a big slap to the face. That being said... this game gets: -Presentation:6.5 decent story and way of telling it but it lacks length. At around 4 to 6 hours depening on howHonestly, I'd give this game a 7.25. Anyone that gives this a 10 needs to wear a helmet. 10=best game ever 9=great game 8=above average 7=average 6=below average and pretty much 5 and below is just crap, 0 being a big slap to the face. That being said... this game gets: -Presentation:6.5 decent story and way of telling it but it lacks length. At around 4 to 6 hours depening on how good you are its definately not worth the money. You do get the multiplayer and original but to be honest youre never going to actually play them more then 15 minutes. -Music:9.5 very very good, im thinkin of buyin the soundtrack -Graphics:7.5 glitchy at times but otherwise decent, its far from the polish of F.E.A.R. or HL2. Some of the enemy textures could use some work -Gameplay:6.5 its definately a shooter and it does that aspect fairly well but this Learning AI is a joke. The way it works is... the better you do, the more baddies spawn with bigger guns and armor. It may be harder, but they are not "learning," they are just sending more waves of guys. At times guys will spawn right in front of you or in the rooms that you were just in moments ago. When there isn't a massive number of enemies coming at you, its easy to tell that the AI is a little daft. The weapons are nice with secondary fire but none are all that useful. You'll find that you stick to the primary fire of the pistol a lot. The interactivity with the world around you is fairly well done, I gain quite a bit of pleasure from some of the things you can do. The settings are to open, leaving no place to take cover. The maps in general are pretty bland and monotonous. Overall: 7.25 (not an average) It would be a great game if it was not $20 for each 4-6 hour chunck of the game (episodic nature of the game), better polished, more useful weapons and work on the AI.… Expand
  44. BraumMeakes
    May 22, 2006
    7
    This was a nice start. It was short, but the purchase price included Sin 1, so I think that's forgivable for now. I would like to see somewhat longer episodes in the future, seeing as this episode was priced at about a third of a normal game, and took less time than that to complete. Maybe it's coming in future episodes, but I wasn't particularly impressed with the weapons This was a nice start. It was short, but the purchase price included Sin 1, so I think that's forgivable for now. I would like to see somewhat longer episodes in the future, seeing as this episode was priced at about a third of a normal game, and took less time than that to complete. Maybe it's coming in future episodes, but I wasn't particularly impressed with the weapons selection. I got a laugh out of the various safety signs posted, and the sequence after the credits made me chuckle. For the price, I would recommend it, and I'm looking forward to seeing what follows.… Expand
  45. JillValentine
    May 22, 2006
    10
    I thing this game showed real potential and is one of my favorite games. The charactors were all cool too.
  46. EnderW.
    May 22, 2006
    0
    to short sould of just been a mod and the story wasnt all that good.
  47. PatB.
    May 22, 2006
    8
    This game was an overall joy. Nothing from the package was not to be expected, and every minute of pure action was worth my money. the only real complaint I have with this title is that it felt way too contrived from other great games. In fact, many of the great set pieces reminded me of other recent, high-rated titles.The first half of the game seemed like an amalgamation of This game was an overall joy. Nothing from the package was not to be expected, and every minute of pure action was worth my money. the only real complaint I have with this title is that it felt way too contrived from other great games. In fact, many of the great set pieces reminded me of other recent, high-rated titles.The first half of the game seemed like an amalgamation of FarCry's maps and Half-Life 2's puzzles, and some of the overheard dialogue seemed more at home in the No One Lives Forever universe. And to top it off, the end boss battle, as well as the climb up to it, seemed parallel to the climax of Max Payne. Yet this odd combination of elements lead to a joyful experience, and some of the scripted moments gave me such intense adrenaline rushs that I forgot about many of the similarities. This game is well worth a buy, and hopefully the sequels will match or surpass.… Expand
  48. KristoferR.
    May 22, 2006
    10
    I've been waiting for the sequal to Sin, after finishing Sin I needed to find out what happend. Then came along Sin: Emergence and I must say I adore it its a strong FPS, the story line is brillaint the range of voice cast especialy Jen Taylor doing the voice of Hardcorps newest rookie Jessica. Only one minor little thing NEED MORE WEAPONS. But all in all for the price I'd say I've been waiting for the sequal to Sin, after finishing Sin I needed to find out what happend. Then came along Sin: Emergence and I must say I adore it its a strong FPS, the story line is brillaint the range of voice cast especialy Jen Taylor doing the voice of Hardcorps newest rookie Jessica. Only one minor little thing NEED MORE WEAPONS. But all in all for the price I'd say if your looking for a fun FPS Sin: Emergence is the game for you.… Expand
  49. [Anonymous]
    May 21, 2006
    6
    Horrible AI. Stale Level design. Not much to write home about.
  50. KevinS.
    May 21, 2006
    10
    Really enjoyed playing this one and can't wait for the next episode. The only negative comments seem to be from people who haven't wrapped their heads around the episodic thing yet which is just going to take time. I don't have time to play 20 hour games and this really works out. I hope HL2 Episode 1 pulls it off this well.
  51. Blake
    May 20, 2006
    10
    To all the negative opinions out there.....

    Why even bother? It takes hard work theese days to create games and Sin pushed FPS to a whole new level. With a solid story plot and amazing graphics how could you complain? What game out there cost 19.95 that will compare? If 20 dollars is an issue to you then freakin get a job...its amazing how you even have a pc that will run it. im a hard    To all the negative opinions out there.....

    Why even bother? It takes hard work theese days to create games and Sin pushed FPS to a whole new level. With a solid story plot and amazing graphics how could you complain? What game out there cost 19.95 that will compare? If 20 dollars is an issue to you then freakin get a job...its amazing how you even have a pc that will run it. im a hard core gamer and i will tell you this game was simply awesome. I went to E3 and got to see the real model bianca WOW she was sexy. In anycase if your reading the negative comments and are debating whether to buy it or not save yourself the regret and give Ritual your 19.95 they deserve it! I cannot WAIT for the #2 episode!    … Expand
  52. ChrisStrode
    May 20, 2006
    5
    On-line registration via Steam is a major pain in the ass. Expect at least a four hour wait while the game registers and updates (dial up) before being able to play. I dont think I will ever again buy another game that uses this truly inane system. Sin is visually nice and performs adequately on my machine (p4 3.0 nvidia 7800 gs). There is one memorable moment, Alexis Sinclair in aOn-line registration via Steam is a major pain in the ass. Expect at least a four hour wait while the game registers and updates (dial up) before being able to play. I dont think I will ever again buy another game that uses this truly inane system. Sin is visually nice and performs adequately on my machine (p4 3.0 nvidia 7800 gs). There is one memorable moment, Alexis Sinclair in a next to nothing bikini.… Expand
  53. Jeremy
    May 20, 2006
    8
    This is a Very Good, solid FPS. After reading the other posts it amazes me how people have forgotten what a FPS actually is. If you want interactive movies that hold your hand all the way through a game then get FEAR or one of the gazzillion WW2 games.
    This game has solid story, graphics, music and AI. Yes the AI is very good, maybe not as good as Far Cry, but then what game does? If    This is a Very Good, solid FPS. After reading the other posts it amazes me how people have forgotten what a FPS actually is. If you want interactive movies that hold your hand all the way through a game then get FEAR or one of the gazzillion WW2 games.
    This game has solid story, graphics, music and AI. Yes the AI is very good, maybe not as good as Far Cry, but then what game does? If you're having trouble in the second half of this game and have to reload a lot then maybe you should quit trying to keep max health. Complaints about the length of the game are absurd as you should have known that it was only 4 - 8 hours long when you bought it.
    Kudos to Ritual for a well executed game.    … Expand
  54. Chris
    May 18, 2006
    8
    I enjoyed this game. It was rock hard in sections and a little annoying in places but it was good looking and interesting enough for a few hours blast. Not a patch on HL2 but then what is?
  55. PhillipS.
    May 18, 2006
    10
    The only thing I can think is that the guy that gave this game a zero must work at one of Ritual's competitors, this game is pure genius. I've played shooters since the Wolf3d days, and this is the first game since Doom2 that really does the "shooter" part of FPS really REALLY well. This game uses the Source engine, but they didn't overuse the stuff that Half-Life2 did like The only thing I can think is that the guy that gave this game a zero must work at one of Ritual's competitors, this game is pure genius. I've played shooters since the Wolf3d days, and this is the first game since Doom2 that really does the "shooter" part of FPS really REALLY well. This game uses the Source engine, but they didn't overuse the stuff that Half-Life2 did like the stupid physics puzzles or long winded driving sequences. This game is also the first one in a LONG time to have the degree of interactivity that I came to expect from games like Duke Nukem, maybe Duke Forever will come out someday and will trump Sin again, but until then, Sin remains firmly on top of the interactive universe. I'm waiting on the next one, and definitely can't wait for multiplayer.… Expand
  56. WillyA.
    May 18, 2006
    9
    An excellent beginning of the Sin Episodes. The $19.95 I gave for it was well spent in my opinion, as it included the original Sin from back in the day. Five hours of gameplay if rushed through isn't such a bad deal for that amount of money. If you hit up any gaming store here in Norway, you'll find most games costs four or five times that amount, and might not include more An excellent beginning of the Sin Episodes. The $19.95 I gave for it was well spent in my opinion, as it included the original Sin from back in the day. Five hours of gameplay if rushed through isn't such a bad deal for that amount of money. If you hit up any gaming store here in Norway, you'll find most games costs four or five times that amount, and might not include more playtime than this. I'm anxiously awaiting the next episode, as I want more of this.… Expand
  57. SuperSpas
    May 18, 2006
    9
    amazing gamelpay, ai and story line. however for me it was too short and the range of weapons really was alet down.
  58. JonK.
    May 17, 2006
    8
    Very decent and strong game for the price. Cant wait for #2.
  59. MattD.
    May 17, 2006
    8
    I gave the game an 8/10. There are a few reasons: First I liked the game because it was a wonderful relief from the endless WW2 FPS games out there. The story, so-far, seems to be well crafted and the game has me intrigued as to what will come next. There is also the inclusion of the reactive-difficulty system, which helped make this one of the most challenging FPSs I've played in a I gave the game an 8/10. There are a few reasons: First I liked the game because it was a wonderful relief from the endless WW2 FPS games out there. The story, so-far, seems to be well crafted and the game has me intrigued as to what will come next. There is also the inclusion of the reactive-difficulty system, which helped make this one of the most challenging FPSs I've played in a while. I really enjoyed playing this game and I am intrigued as to what the next episode will hold. Small Spoiler: The stuff after the end of the game and before the credits, hilarious. Thank you Ritual Entertainment, I will be looking forward to the next installment.… Expand
  60. DavidK.
    May 17, 2006
    7
    Hey, Well, to tell you the truth, the game felt too much like half life 2. I mean the physics, the monsters, the action. It basically is an addon to half life 2. I really disliked the extreme lack of interaction between the player, enviorment, and AI. One thing , howeevr that Ritual has perfected is the music scores, as well as the generic coding, i am upset though that they did not Hey, Well, to tell you the truth, the game felt too much like half life 2. I mean the physics, the monsters, the action. It basically is an addon to half life 2. I really disliked the extreme lack of interaction between the player, enviorment, and AI. One thing , howeevr that Ritual has perfected is the music scores, as well as the generic coding, i am upset though that they did not change the main menu and the look of the game, thus making no different then what modders are doing today. Another bad thing that ritual has put in place is the encryption. this include all the main music scores, desisive files, models, and maps. Overall this game deserves a SOLID 7. I belive that this game is average and hey, if you liked half life 2, and doom 3, or the original SiN, you will defenitly like this game. And on top of that you will get a got experiance from the AI. So hey, if you got cash then buy it, if not well dun bother saving up. Take it each.… Expand
  61. Brandon
    May 16, 2006
    9
    Overall the game and story is great. AI needs some work.
  62. Dmitry
    May 16, 2006
    6
    Weak game
  63. JoshuaK
    May 16, 2006
    2
    The game should be a free mod, save your money for Half-live 2 :ep1 this game sucks
  64. Twid
    May 16, 2006
    5
    Emergence wasn't terrible, but it didn't feel fully baked. I only got about four hours of gameplay, which seems very lame for $20. You get to use three weapons, each with two shooting modes. Of this only three of the modes are actually useful (both pistol modes and the shotgun primary.) The pistols normal shot is strangely powerful, better than the machine gun because headshots Emergence wasn't terrible, but it didn't feel fully baked. I only got about four hours of gameplay, which seems very lame for $20. You get to use three weapons, each with two shooting modes. Of this only three of the modes are actually useful (both pistol modes and the shotgun primary.) The pistols normal shot is strangely powerful, better than the machine gun because headshots are almost always single shot kills. There is basically zero character development and no chemistry with you cute cohort. The dream sequences in the beginning, including a strange scene with the evil leader in a microbikini, happen in the first ten minutes and you never see anything like that again. Overall, this was pretty lame for $20, it felt more like a tech demo like Lost Coast.… Expand
  65. MajisterLudi
    May 16, 2006
    6
    I was looking forward to this game for some time - but was mostly underwhelmed with this release. It's a shame, as I am all in favour of episodic games, and don't think this is a good start to the idea. There was simply little else to this game than the same old run and gun (with a mutant boss or two, of course, at the end). Very stale. Fear, or even Doom (which didn't do I was looking forward to this game for some time - but was mostly underwhelmed with this release. It's a shame, as I am all in favour of episodic games, and don't think this is a good start to the idea. There was simply little else to this game than the same old run and gun (with a mutant boss or two, of course, at the end). Very stale. Fear, or even Doom (which didn't do much for me) did a better job with this uninspired approach, and it is no foundation for a long term franchise. There was little development of the great story we were promised, and little to keep a thinking person interested. I could live with the short length if some originality had been there. Though Jessica is cute (which may serve its purpose for the juvenile market), her role is a simple rip-off from HL2. And the run and gun I found pretty straightforward at the moderately difficult level. The AI is average at best. Graphics and sound were mostly good (to be expected with the source engine), with some spectacular scenes. I don't regret the $20 and will not give up on this game solely based upon episode 1, but this team (or tribe, if they prefer) needs to bring something fresh to the genre if this series is to go anywhere far. There are HL2 mods out there with greater creativity, and are more fun to play.… Expand
  66. MartyG.
    May 16, 2006
    6
    Unfortunately, Sin Episodes Emergence is perhaps above-average at best, which disappointed me because I had hoped for better. I think the difficulty is pitched way too hard for a casual gamer like me, and the respawning enemies trick just gets a little tiresome, despite the so-called dynamic difficulty setting. However, I think future episodes will only improve the game further, so Ritual Unfortunately, Sin Episodes Emergence is perhaps above-average at best, which disappointed me because I had hoped for better. I think the difficulty is pitched way too hard for a casual gamer like me, and the respawning enemies trick just gets a little tiresome, despite the so-called dynamic difficulty setting. However, I think future episodes will only improve the game further, so Ritual hasn't lost me yet. Having to pay $20 each for 8 more episodes is really going to add up cost-wise though, and if these episodes are released every 6 months or so, then Sin is going to look a little dated very quickly. I hope the episodal concept works out better for Ritual. It's a nice idea, I'm just not sure the execution of it has been fully worked out yet.… Expand
  67. Gerard
    May 16, 2006
    9
    I've read some of the other reviewers comments and I just dont understand how they think this game is so hard.....On the hardest setting, yes, its a monster, but if you adjust the difficulty, its pretty easy. It's somewhat linear, but has excelent graphics and overall, seems like a cross between Counter-Strike and Half Life.....for the $20, its a good game.
  68. Buddy
    May 15, 2006
    10
    Great Game, Dynamic gameplay, Detailed Environments, Beliveable characters, Good weapons, Good AI, Physics-Even-Better-Than-In-HL2!!!!
  69. GarrettM.
    May 15, 2006
    10
    This game is fantastic. It's based on the HL2 engine, but feels like an enhanced version of HL2, some stuff is just much better. The Dynamic Difficulty system works wonderfully since I'm not the best FPS player in the world, but I was still albe to finish the game. It took me nearly 8+ hours to finish this episode, so I feel like it was well worth the $20. For the price, you This game is fantastic. It's based on the HL2 engine, but feels like an enhanced version of HL2, some stuff is just much better. The Dynamic Difficulty system works wonderfully since I'm not the best FPS player in the world, but I was still albe to finish the game. It took me nearly 8+ hours to finish this episode, so I feel like it was well worth the $20. For the price, you can't go wrong with buying this game. I can't wait for the next episode, and hopefully multiplayer soon too!!… Expand
  70. Remmy
    May 15, 2006
    6
    Sin Emergence makes for both a mediocre game and a terrific mod. If you purchase the game expecting hours of gameplay with unique enemies and weapons then you will be sorely dissapointed--as I was at first; however if you purchase this game with the expectation of a mod then the game will be worth it. As reviews before have stated the game is rather linear, somewhat clostraphobic, and the Sin Emergence makes for both a mediocre game and a terrific mod. If you purchase the game expecting hours of gameplay with unique enemies and weapons then you will be sorely dissapointed--as I was at first; however if you purchase this game with the expectation of a mod then the game will be worth it. As reviews before have stated the game is rather linear, somewhat clostraphobic, and the weaponry selection is poor at best (3 weapons overall). Enemies are relentless and have the tendency to shoot through walls; also due to the relentless assault by the SinTEK rent-a-cops there is rarely a lull where you can stop and catch your breath--perhaps the creators thought they could justify such a short game by throwing in twice as many enemies in half the content. The game is also very challenging, which can lead to momentary fustration but in the end it's one of the few positive [unique] aspects of the game which make it enjoyable--nothing is better then that feeling of overcoming the seemingly impossible (I'd just wish they would give you some time inbetween battles to relish). The voice acting and character design is both well done and well thought out, again making this an impressive mod but not a true game.… Expand
  71. BellinoP.
    May 15, 2006
    0
    Total rip off. This is just another way for a company to maximize its Profits with little input! Its way too short, the story line is nonexistent and I have seen way better Free mods then this.
  72. Armin
    May 15, 2006
    5
    It looks and feels like a Half Life 2 mod. All the graphics, physics etc. are just like in Half Life 2, not in a negative way, but I would expect a lot more than just a few hours of gameplay for $19.95, and it simply feels like a mod, not a complete production. The AI is ok, the only innovative thing in this game, definetly gives the player a challenge.
  73. JackP.
    May 15, 2006
    5
    Substandard at best. Reminds me of Devastation this game, the gameplay is well, horribly horribly linear, being stuck in tunnels and small passageways throughout the whole game. The game is unforgivingly hard too, now, even though you may pick the easiest setting, that means jack, since it's going to make it harder and harder the better you do, now is it just me, or if someone picks Substandard at best. Reminds me of Devastation this game, the gameplay is well, horribly horribly linear, being stuck in tunnels and small passageways throughout the whole game. The game is unforgivingly hard too, now, even though you may pick the easiest setting, that means jack, since it's going to make it harder and harder the better you do, now is it just me, or if someone picks easy, would they not want it to keep being easy? Guns? What guns, you have that insanely accurate pistol at the beggining, then about 30 minutes in you can have your second gun, a shotgun, then you have one more, a rifle, thats it, and there isn't even any upgrades ala Quake 4 to make it more interesting. The enemies are relentless too, finally after hours of play I come to an open area, thinking that I might get some more freedom, but no, it's a boss. After a gruelling battle with barely any hp you would think I would get to heal, but no, enemies come out some door, barely giving me any time to jump away to safety and luckily find a tiny bit of health. Overall? Not even worth the $20, even if it does come with the first SiN.… Expand
  74. Tmlkml
    May 14, 2006
    10
    Best game ever. If it was 50 bucks, I'd be pissed, I only paid 18 bucks(pre-order). If you aren't stupid, thick headed, or a total moron, you'll love this game.
  75. RussS.
    May 14, 2006
    4
    Sin Episodes: Emergence is a frustratingly difficult mediocre game. So now that I've broken the cardinal rule of review writing and put the conclusion first, let me explain how a game with such high expectations utterly failed to hit the mark. Sin Episodes makes use of a feature called the personal challenge system. A system that automatically adjusts the difficult to your skill. In Sin Episodes: Emergence is a frustratingly difficult mediocre game. So now that I've broken the cardinal rule of review writing and put the conclusion first, let me explain how a game with such high expectations utterly failed to hit the mark. Sin Episodes makes use of a feature called the personal challenge system. A system that automatically adjusts the difficult to your skill. In the beginning of the game, this was great. After nailing headshot after headshot, the guards started coming after me wearing helmets. The first helmet I shoot off gave me great satisfactions. However, after the first boss fight, the game's difficult stops slowly ramping up and instead boards a Saturn V rocket and aims for the moon. Soon the player is hitting reload button as often as the primary fire button. By the time I was 80% done with the game, thanks to Sin's stats tracker, I found out I was dying 28.03 times per hour and I did something I haven't done it ages. I cheated. That's right, I typed in the God mode cheat just to finish the game. Running through the final stages of the game, I don't know how else I would have survived as the game was throwing wave after wave of enemies I dubbed, "walking tanks" at me. But that wasn't the only frustration with the game's combat I had. First, there's no cover in this game. All the major fights seem to take place in corridor's and warehouses, ala FPS design cira 1998. My biggest gripe with the game is the spawning enemies. Part of the personal challenge system is to spawn more enemies if you blew through the first wave. This often times results in enemies spawning behind you in rooms that you thought you had cleared. And in some cases enemies spawning right before your eyes. Perhaps because of these other failings, the fact that the graphics couldn't impress was drawn to the forefront. Emergence is build on the source engine, the same engine that powers Half-Life 2 and Counter-Strike: Source. However, Emergence doesn't live up to its pedigree, lacking the same level of polish that either of the previously mentioned games do. While Sin does have a few bright spots like the well modeled and textured guards and dock workers, it finds its self falling short in the same category like the low-poly, poorly textured dock boss. So, what did Sin do well? The sound department should be congratulated. The music was excellent and the sound effects provided just the right punch to bring the characters, weapons, and explosions alive. And the statistics tracker was a thoughtful addition, although viewing "Deaths per hour" can be a be a bit depressing.… Expand
  76. HaroldS.
    May 14, 2006
    9
    A bit laggy, crash, but create storyline and weapons and grahics, incredible job, Incredible Game
  77. MattK.
    May 14, 2006
    0
    Okay, i know the zero is a _little_ bit harsh, but come on!!! I have played numerous games (litterally more than a hundred, alot more) and i have GOT to say that this is the worst. That is why i gave this game a zero... It is literally the worst game i have EVER ever ever ever ever ever ever ever ever ever played... Please don't buy it and encourage the people at Ritual Games [TM] ( Okay, i know the zero is a _little_ bit harsh, but come on!!! I have played numerous games (litterally more than a hundred, alot more) and i have GOT to say that this is the worst. That is why i gave this game a zero... It is literally the worst game i have EVER ever ever ever ever ever ever ever ever ever played... Please don't buy it and encourage the people at Ritual Games [TM] ( but seriously Ritual Games.... ALL of your games suck.... i'm sorry, but they do. Your best game deserves maybe a four.... try making some quality games that people won't buy simply because they are on a sweet engine {congrats to valve for creating Source [TM]}… Expand
  78. JamesH.
    May 14, 2006
    10
    Fantastic game. Excellent AI, wonderful storyline and believable characters. I really love Ritual's dynamic challenge system, which helps you (Indirectly) if you get stuck at a particular point without detracting from the challenge. Source really gives this game the thrust it needs and proves once again to be a flexible and powerful engine.
  79. NathanaelR.
    May 14, 2006
    8
    Decent shooter which suffers from difficulty scaling problems. Otherwise it's a fine example of no nonsense FPS goodness that is well executed and slickly produced. There's little original here, but it's done so well that you don't care that it's a mindless action game because you're having fun. However, if you use quicksaves every time you die, the game Decent shooter which suffers from difficulty scaling problems. Otherwise it's a fine example of no nonsense FPS goodness that is well executed and slickly produced. There's little original here, but it's done so well that you don't care that it's a mindless action game because you're having fun. However, if you use quicksaves every time you die, the game difficulty ends up scaling out of control - something that is usually only found out the hard way. Best advice is to simply make use of the autosaves - they allow the difficulty to be scaled down if you keep dying on a certain area. The MI3 or Armageddon movie of computer games - mindless, unoriginal, not too bright, but slick, well executed, and highly entertaining.… Expand
  80. ChristianM.
    May 14, 2006
    9
    Fun, good ai and it feels like the original sin. nice stages, very interactive and fun to play. i don't understand the bad reviews, sin episodes is more fun than hl2 plus because of the lack of ammo and health you have to use lots of strategic playing to win! its not a simple shooter. oh and the title song is great as well!!!
  81. FaceSprayer
    May 13, 2006
    3
    Glitchy, crash ridden, shotty collision detection (at best) unclear objectives, total lack of ammo, health or anything that makes me actually feel I got my $17 worth for this title. It's just the same shooter scenario we've seen 1 million times already. This game brings nothing new to the table and could possibly be the WORST game to use Valve's beautiful Source engine. The Glitchy, crash ridden, shotty collision detection (at best) unclear objectives, total lack of ammo, health or anything that makes me actually feel I got my $17 worth for this title. It's just the same shooter scenario we've seen 1 million times already. This game brings nothing new to the table and could possibly be the WORST game to use Valve's beautiful Source engine. The physics are weak, the collision detection will leave you stuck on invisible walls or small pieces of debris. The AI seems to roll with the philosophy of "When in doubt, stand there like an idiot". The enemies seem to deal you an overwhelming amount of damage and it seems that the weapons of the future have an interesting problem: Point blank, sights set for the face...and you still miss! This game is awful and I actually regret paying for it.… Expand
  82. One-up
    May 13, 2006
    7
    After reading other user reviews I hope more avid gamers might find this review useful. I couldn
  83. I.Whitacre
    May 12, 2006
    8
    Looks great, and has a lot of interaction, I like being able to pick up boxes etc... The AI is pretty poor, I ran around a group of enimies who where ducking behind a fallen pop machine, I killed one and ended up behind the other. He didn't seem to mind that his buddy's head just blew up, and the killer, me, was hanging out 2 ft behind him. That said, heads do explode, the Looks great, and has a lot of interaction, I like being able to pick up boxes etc... The AI is pretty poor, I ran around a group of enimies who where ducking behind a fallen pop machine, I killed one and ended up behind the other. He didn't seem to mind that his buddy's head just blew up, and the killer, me, was hanging out 2 ft behind him. That said, heads do explode, the action is quick, and overall I liked it! Hopefully the future episodes improve upon some of the AI problems.… Expand
  84. MacDuro
    May 12, 2006
    8
    A good history, nice enemies, weapons and sounds.
  85. TimJ.
    May 12, 2006
    9
    After playing for the first couple stages it reminded me of the fun times i had with the original SIn games. The thrill of the hunt and hunted, this game has it all.
  86. AdamMCbomB
    May 12, 2006
    8
    There is lots of value for the buck here, especially considering it sells with the original Sin title. Feels a little like a console FPS at times. Reminiscent of Duke Nukem 3D, but sadly nowhere nearly as cool. Lots of artwork, and original gags, including somewhat humerous signs posted in many areas. If you're into single player shooters and are looking for an exceptional total There is lots of value for the buck here, especially considering it sells with the original Sin title. Feels a little like a console FPS at times. Reminiscent of Duke Nukem 3D, but sadly nowhere nearly as cool. Lots of artwork, and original gags, including somewhat humerous signs posted in many areas. If you're into single player shooters and are looking for an exceptional total conversion for Half Life 2, this is it.… Expand
  87. BlakeR.
    May 11, 2006
    9
    A worthy successor to the SiN series that has me hungry for more!
  88. AndyAspen
    May 11, 2006
    10
    It's great, not best possible but great. What makes it better than avarage is that same tricks have been done as good as they can be done. Also some improvements and couple new ideas make it worth replaying couple times more. Challenge system works and it's great to find out that while the game proggresses it becomes as hard as you skills will allow it to be. It's got also It's great, not best possible but great. What makes it better than avarage is that same tricks have been done as good as they can be done. Also some improvements and couple new ideas make it worth replaying couple times more. Challenge system works and it's great to find out that while the game proggresses it becomes as hard as you skills will allow it to be. It's got also a super hard mode which is extremely fun to play since it's not allowed to save or reload game when it is toggled. Ingame music is exelent and mainmenu music (available from iTunes) is one of the best gamemenu musics ever. Maybe MaxPayne has littlebit better but still it great. So why I am giving it ten? I tell you. The truth is that I'd love to give it 8 and HalfLife2 score 7 but since this is better than usual and it's without a second thought better than HL2 or F.E.A.R or anyother FPS lately. For those who are about to think why to pay 20… Expand
  89. BertramW.
    May 11, 2006
    9
    Very good overall near nonstop action, I found the way the enemies adjust from firefight to firefight quite disorientating at first, but really enjoy it now as you never know what to expect each time you fight, or re-load from a save game. Good comic book style setting and ambience. Plus Elexis is hot. Minor dissapointment was that the slow mo is a bit useless tbh.
  90. KaiR.
    May 11, 2006
    8
    Soooo much fun, little need to think things through - just kill kill kill! Could be just a little longer, but hopefully we wont have to wait long for the next 'episode' to be published.
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Awards & Rankings

76
#76 Best PC Game of 2006
8
#8 Most Discussed PC Game of 2006
83
#83 Most Shared PC Game of 2006

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
75

Generally favorable reviews - based on 42 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 28 out of 42
  2. Mixed: 14 out of 42
  3. Negative: 0 out of 42
  1. Yahoo!
    80
    While it has its flaws, it's paced well, full of action, and managed to keep us smiling all the way to the end. With a tweak here and a polish there, Ritual could really be onto something good. Bring on part two.
    Read full review
  2. GameSpot
    73
    This is a pretty-looking, short, budget-priced, by-the-numbers futuristic shooter that's most notable for its episodic nature and its old heritage.
    Read full review
  3. Eurogamer
    70
    It's a bland taste to a cultured palette. But it's fun, too, and self-aware.
    Read full review
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