Splinter Cell is all about light. The interface keeps you apprised of your degree of illumination, and when you are in total darkness, a soldier can walk right past you, unconcernedly humming "If I Were a Rich Man." Cell uses light not just as an effective game mechanism but also for stunning visual effects: the shadow of moths thrown against a wall by a bare bulb, dappled moonlight under a trellis, sunlight streaming through Venetian blinds undulating in the wind.
While lacking the exotic locales of Nightfire and Forever, Cell's visuals are more impressive for their small details, like the way curtains swirl as you walk through them.
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