Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

The gameplay in 24: The Game captures the high-stakes intensity fans expect from Jack Bauer’s world. Players switch seamlessly between third-person shooting segments, stealth-based infiltration missions, and sniper scenarios that demand patience and precision. The variety of mission types keeps the experience fresh: one moment you’re engaging in a frantic gunfight amid a warehouse siege, and the next you’re carefully lining up a long-distance shot to protect a fleeing informant.

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Puzzle and mini-game elements are woven into the action to break up the combat. Bomb-defusal sequences require you to solve wire-cutting puzzles under time pressure, while computer-hacking segments challenge you to match circuits before alarms sound. These diversions add depth to the gameplay loop, giving players a chance to catch their breath between firefights and tying into the CTU’s tech-centric flavor.

Interrogation sequences stand out as a unique mechanic. By selecting dialogue options and leveraging environmental cues—such as tapping on suspicious objects—you must convince suspects to talk or risk losing critical intel. This system injects a narrative-driven tension, emphasizing interrogation as a tactical tool rather than a mere story beat.

Character switching is implemented cleverly: each playable agent has specialized skills. Tony Almeida’s tech expertise makes hacking sequences smoother, while Chase Edmunds excels in high-speed pursuits. Balancing each character’s strengths and weaknesses becomes crucial, especially in missions where time is of the essence and backup is limited.

Graphics

On the PlayStation 2 hardware, 24: The Game delivers surprisingly polished visuals that mirror the TV series’ gritty aesthetic. Character models bear striking resemblance to their actors, and facial animations during cutscenes convey emotion effectively. Although textures occasionally appear soft in wide-open environments, the overall art direction maintains a realistic, shadow-laden tone.

Environmental design shines in detail-driven locales—from dimly lit CTU offices to sun-drenched Los Angeles streets. Dynamic lighting enhances atmosphere, casting believable reflections on weapon surfaces and creating dramatic silhouettes during night missions. Particle effects during explosions and muzzle flashes add an extra layer of immersion to firefights.

Cutscenes are rendered using the game engine, preserving seamless transitions between gameplay and narrative moments. Voice lines sync well with lip movements, and camera angles are cinematic, evoking the show’s signature format. Occasional frame rate dips happen during the most chaotic firefights, but they rarely disrupt the flow of action.

Story

Serving as a narrative bridge between Seasons 2 and 3, the story of 24: The Game fills in crucial gaps in the TV timeline. Written by one of the show’s own writers, the script feels authentic, weaving familiar conspiracies and cliffhangers that resonate with longtime viewers. Key plot points—such as Kim Bauer’s harrowing ordeal and Michelle Dessler’s CTU leadership challenges—gain sudden context, making the storyline feel indispensable to fans.

Voice performances by Kiefer Sutherland, Elisha Cuthbert, and the rest of the ensemble lend credibility to every line. Hearing the original cast brings a level of emotional weight that generic tie-in games often miss. Humorous exchanges between Tony Almeida and Chloe O’Brian lighten the mood, while Jack’s steely determination anchors the narrative through perilous twists.

Story pacing largely adheres to the show’s “real-time” conceit, with missions unfolding in hour-by-hour segments. Although some plot threads are predictable for veteran viewers, unexpected betrayals and moral dilemmas keep you guessing. The finale builds to a tense climax that seamlessly transitions into the opening of Season 3, rewarding players who invested in the game’s events.

Overall Experience

24: The Game offers a compelling package for both fans of the series and action-adventure enthusiasts. Its blend of varied mission types, true-to-show storytelling, and authentic voice acting makes for a memorable console experience. While a few graphical hiccups and occasional loading pauses remind you of its PS2 roots, the game’s strong narrative drive quickly draws you back in.

Replayability comes from uncovering optional collectibles—classified CTU files and hidden recordings—that expand the lore and offer extra context on side characters. Hardcore players can revisit high-difficulty modes to master stealth takedowns and speed-run bomb defusals. Completionists will appreciate the in-game dossier tracking every key event tied to the TV timeline.

Ultimately, the game stands out as one of the more successful TV-to-game adaptations. It delivers a cohesive, action-packed journey that honors the spirit of 24 while providing engaging gameplay mechanics. For anyone seeking a dose of CTU-style drama or wanting to fill in the missing hours between seasons, 24: The Game remains a worthwhile addition to any PS2 collection.

Retro Replay Score

6.5/10