Perfect Dark Review: Score and Verdict (2000)

Perfect Dark, released in 2000 for the Nintendo 64, is a spy shooter from the developers of GoldenEye 007. It features a range of gadgets, a story with missions and an extensive multiplayer mode with many options.

What works

Gadgets such as the laser and the sniper modes add variety to combat.
Missions have varied objectives, and the story is memorable for its time.
Multiplayer offered a large range of customisation.

What does not

Difficulty spikes can frustrate players, and the controls feel awkward today.

Category	Score
Gameplay and shooting	8.5/10
Visuals and sound	7/10
Content and modes	8.5/10
Multiplayer and community	8.5/10
Value for money	8/10

Our scores are editorial ratings out of 10, based on each game's design and reported features. They are not a record of hands-on play sessions on this site.

Who should play it

Retro shooter fans who enjoy spy stories and gadget-based combat.

Verdict

A detailed spy shooter with a strong multiplayer heritage. Our score: 8.5 out of 10.

Tips for the gadgets

Gadgets change the feel of each mission. Try different weapons in the early levels to learn their range, rate of fire and effect on enemies. Some gadgets are better for stealth, while others suit open fights. Use them in combination to handle groups of enemies more efficiently.

Story and mission design

The story follows a secret agent through a near-future setting, and the missions include objectives beyond simple shooting. Reading the briefings and paying attention to the mission goals helps you understand why each area matters.