The Final Showdown: Light in Video Games: Splinter Cell

Although lighting has become more of an important aspect in recent years, the physical 'use' of light is apparent in some old video games with far less technological power. One of my favourite examples is the classic 'Splinter Cell' on Microsoft's original Xbox console. In it's time, the graphical capability was outstanding and incredibly atmospheric. This is because all of the design components came together perfectly, generating a new and immersive experience. The concept of light importance is carried throughout the entire game, even making it an essential part of the game play mechanics. Light is used to conceal your character from danger, whether in complete darkness or intense brightness. It felt like you really were the character, planning your pathways and escape routes, masking yourself from danger where possible, concealing evidence by removing light from a scene, or illuminate areas for distractions, light is the most important focus of the game play mechanics, aside from visual aesthetic. It was the benchmark stealth game to actively immerse players into a world where you had to make analyzed decisions quickly and efficiently or you would eventually fail. Some aspects of the game made it so your goal was to not be detected or you would fail, this in itself effectively draws the player into a coherent world of concentration, planning and decision making. Focusing on the environment around you, all assets, structures and characters considered to aid your successful completion of the game.

Making a game where you can manipulate the environment around is an important key for player immersion. Specifically with Splinter Cell, giving the player the ability to manipulate light around you and use it to your advantage, really adds that sense of 'control'. Being in control of the way you play games actively increases the rate of immersion, as you are more able to act and react on your own instincts, making YOU the most important factor of the game.