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Sniper Elite 5 – The Ultimate WW2 Sandbox
Rebellion's sharpshooter sim refines its X-ray killcams and open maps for a satisfying, if familiar, tactical sandbox. Rated 8.0/10.
Game Info
Verdict
The best entry in the series, perfecting the tactical sniping formula while adding the brilliant Invasion Mode.
Pros
- Massive, intricate open levels
- Invasion Mode is a game-changer
- Deep weapon customization system
- Satisfying X-ray kill cams
- Smooth 60fps console performance
Cons
- Story and characters are forgettable
- Enemy AI can be inconsistent
- Movement can feel clunky indoors
Performance Notes
Very well optimized. Consoles stick to a solid 60fps with dynamic resolution scaling. PC version offers extensive customization but requires a decent CPU for high settings.
Sniper Elite 5 refines the series’ signature long-range combat with expansive sandbox maps based on real-world locations in 1944 France. While it doesn’t reinvent the wheel, the introduction of the ‘Invasion Mode’—allowing players to drop into others’ campaigns as an Axis sniper—adds a thrilling cat-and-mouse dynamic that elevates the tension significantly. Critical reception has been largely positive, praising the level design and weapon customization while noting some AI inconsistencies.
How to Play Sniper Elite 5
Master ballistics and stealth to dismantle Nazi operations across massive levels.
- Controls – Standard third-person shooter scheme; holding breath steadies aim and reveals an assist marker on lower difficulties.
- Progression – Earn XP from kills and objectives to unlock skill points; find workbenches in levels to customize weapons.
- Combat/Mechanics – Focus on stealth and distance; masking shots with environmental noise is key to remaining undetected.
- Tips – Use non-lethal ammo to disable lights/alarms, and always have a trapped escape route before taking a shot.
Who Should Play Sniper Elite 5
Perfect for patient tacticians who enjoy planning the perfect shot.
- Player 1 – Stealth purists who love observing enemy patterns and executing silent takedowns.
- Player 2 – WW2 history buffs who appreciate detailed period weaponry and settings.
- Player 3 – Co-op fans looking for a slower-paced, tactical campaign to share with a friend.
- Skip if – You prefer fast-paced, run-and-gun arcade shooters like Call of Duty.
Sniper Elite 5 Platform Performance
Runs smoothly on current-gen consoles, targeting 60fps with dynamic resolution scaling.
| Platform | Resolution | FPS | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| PC (High) | 4K | 60-120+ | DLSS/FSR support available |
| PS5 | Dynamic 4K | 60 | Stable performance, swift loading |
| Xbox Series X | Dynamic 4K | 60 | Best console visual fidelity |
| Switch | N/A | N/A | Not available on Nintendo Switch |
Sniper Elite 5 System Requirements
Accessible requirements that scale well on older hardware.
| Component | Minimum | Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| OS | Windows 10 | Windows 10/11 |
| CPU | Intel Core i3-8100 | Intel Core i5-8400 |
| GPU | DX12 GPU (4GB VRAM) | DX12 GPU (6GB VRAM) |
| RAM | 8 GB | 16 GB |
| Storage | 85 GB | SSD Recommended |
Similar Games to Sniper Elite 5
If you enjoy tactical stealth and open-ended objectives, try these titles.
- Hitman 3 – Focuses on social stealth and disguises rather than long-range ballistics.
- Ghost Recon Breakpoint – Open-world military tactical shooter with similar stealth mechanics.
- Metal Gear Solid V – The gold standard for sandbox stealth and systemic gameplay freedom.
- Zombie Army 4 – Spiritual successor using the same engine but with supernatural horror themes.
Sniper Elite 5 vs Competitors
Comparing value and features against other tactical shooters.
| Feature | Sniper Elite 5 | Hitman 3 | Ghost Recon Breakpoint |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $49.99 | $59.99 | $19.99 |
| Playtime | 15-20 Hours | 10-15 Hours | 30+ Hours |
| Multiplayer | Yes (Co-op/PvP) | No (Single-player) | Yes (Co-op/PvP) |
| Metacritic | 79 | 87 | 58 |
Sniper Elite 5 Story & World
Set in 1944 France, you play as elite marksman Karl Fairburne, working with the French Resistance to uncover and destroy a secret Nazi project known as Operation Kraken. The narrative serves largely as a backdrop for the gameplay, taking you through detailed environments ranging from coastal fortifications to occupied chateaus and secret factories, all realized with impressive photogrammetry assets.
Sniper Elite 5 Multiplayer & Online
Robust suite of modes including the standout Invasion Mode.
- Campaign Co-op – Play the full story with a partner, sharing ammo and spotting targets.
- Invasion Mode – A player invades your campaign as an Axis sniper for 1v1 PvP tension.
- Survival – Wave-based horde mode for up to 4 players against increasing enemy numbers.
- Cross-Play – Full support across PlayStation, Xbox, and PC platforms.
Sniper Elite 5 DLC & Expansions
extensive post-launch support adds new missions and weapons.
- Season Pass One – Includes ‘Landing Force’ and ‘Conqueror’ missions ($34.99).
- Season Pass Two – Adds ‘Rough Landing’ and ‘Kraken Awakes’ content ($29.99).
- Target Führer – Bonus mission to assassinate Hitler in creative ways.
- Free Updates – Several multiplayer maps and weapon packs released for free.
Sniper Elite 5 Community & Support
Active community driven by Rebellion’s consistent updates.
- Official Forums – Hub for patch notes and developer feedback.
- Discord – Active LFG channels for Co-op and Invasion matches.
- Mod Support – Limited official support; focus is on developer content.
- Updates – Regular patches for stability and anti-cheat improvements.