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For a first playthrough, follow the six main games in release sequence: Splinter Cell, Pandora Tomorrow, Chaos Theory, Double Agent, Conviction, then Blacklist. Add the PSP game Splinter Cell: Essentials only if you want an optional flashback entry. For Double Agent, check the platform version: a chronology guide recommends the PC/Xbox 360 branch for the story path it describes into Conviction, but Ubisoft has not confirmed that version as canon.
The recommended Splinter Cell play order
The simplest route is the main release sequence. It preserves the series’ progression without treating alternate versions or the PSP entry as required chapters. A chronology guide recommends this same six-game path.
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- Tom Clancy’s Splinter Cell — the starting point, introducing Sam Fisher as an elite covert agent in Third Echelon. Ubisoft’s anniversary article says the original launched on November 17, 2002; its PC listing gives February 18, 2003, reflecting different release dates by platform or edition. In general, the series began in 2002. Ubisoft game page · Ubisoft anniversary article
- Tom Clancy’s Splinter Cell: Pandora Tomorrow — play it second, after the original. Chronology guide · Ubisoft Store catalog
- Tom Clancy’s Splinter Cell: Chaos Theory — third, completing the original trilogy before the later entries. Chronology guide
- Tom Clancy’s Splinter Cell: Double Agent — fourth. Check which platform version you are getting; see the version notes below. Ubisoft game page
- Tom Clancy’s Splinter Cell: Conviction — fifth, after Double Agent. Chronology guide
- Tom Clancy’s Splinter Cell: Blacklist — sixth and latest mainline game in this sequence. Ubisoft lists its release date as August 20, 2013. Ubisoft game page · Chronology guide
Where Splinter Cell: Essentials fits
Splinter Cell: Essentials is a PSP entry with flashback missions. The chronology guide places it between Chaos Theory and Double Agent, but says the core plot can be followed without it. Treat it as an optional detour, not a seventh required game. Chronology guide
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Double Agent has platform-specific versions. Ubisoft’s current product page lists the PC and Xbox 360 version and describes Fisher infiltrating a terrorist organization. The chronology guide distinguishes that branch from versions for older consoles and recommends the PC/Xbox 360 path for the continuity it describes into Conviction. That recommendation comes from the guide; Ubisoft’s product page does not establish an official canon ruling.
#1 Best Overall
- Includes three great Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell hits, including Splinter Cell, Splinter Cell: Pandora Tomorrow and Splinter Cell: Chaos Theory
- Try to unfold the conspiracy that's been digitally remastered in high definition for even more intense thrills and exciting graphics
- Jump into the role of Sam Fisher in all three games as you command an arsenal of weapons, gadgets and moves to protect the country
- Everything from gameplay to cinematic maps, menus and load screens has been visually enhanced to create stunning gameplay
- 3D stereoscope view creates visuals that pop out of the screen with 3D-enabled televisions
If continuing the guide’s described story path is your priority, verify that a listing is specifically for the PC/Xbox 360 version before buying. Do not assume that copies with the same title are interchangeable. Ubisoft game page · Chronology guide
Release order or story order?
For most newcomers, the six-game sequence above is the practical choice. The chronology guide offers a story-oriented arrangement that keeps the core games in the same broad progression while adding optional Essentials. Its specific in-universe year labels and judgments about canon are the guide’s interpretation, not facts confirmed by Ubisoft. Chronology guide
Rank #2
- Videogame Console Software XBox 360 Games
Check availability and online features before choosing a copy
Platform listings are not a guarantee that every edition is currently sold in your country or will run on your device. Ubisoft lists PC for the original, PC and Xbox 360 for Double Agent, and PC, Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, and Wii U for Blacklist. Check the relevant regional store page and the exact edition’s system requirements or compatibility information before buying. Original game page · Double Agent page · Blacklist page · Ubisoft Store catalog
Ubisoft says Blacklist online features are no longer supported, and its multiplayer and co-op modes are no longer functional. Choose it for its single-player campaign rather than expecting those modes to work. Ubisoft game page
Rank #3
- ESRB Rating: Teen
- Genre: Action/Adventure
What about the announced remake?
Ubisoft announced a remake led by Ubisoft Toronto, describing it as a linear game rebuilt with Snowdrop and updated visuals and design. The announcement described development as being at a very early stage when it was published; it does not establish a current release date or status. It is not part of the six-game sequence above. Ubisoft remake announcement
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Disc only. Original case and manual not included. Will come packaged in a generic case.
- This renewed game has been cleaned, tested, and shows minimal wear.
Rank #4
- OWN YOUR PLAY STYLE: Splinter Cell Blacklist builds on the stealth roots of the franchise, while exploring new directions to embrace the realms of action and adventure. Players can define their personal play styles and be rewarded for those choices.
- TOOLS OF THE TRADE: Fans of stealth will be happy to make the most of Sam's sneaking abilities to abduct and carry enemies, while Killing in Motion allows the player to strike with surgical precision by marking and executing multiple enemies in one fluid motion.
- SPIES VS. MERCS RETURNS: Spies vs. Mercs is back with a new take on asymmetrical gameplay. Players will be able to face off in teams of 4 while creating their very own Spy or Merc according to their playstyles via thorough customization elements. The original Classic Spies vs. Mercs experience also makes its long awaited comeback for the fans.
- COOP: Co-Op is back and bigger than ever with 14 maps & 4 mission types. While you play you also earn in-game currency and unlock additional weapons or gadgets via specialized missions assigned by Grim, Briggs, Charlie and Kobin.
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