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At first Industrial Spy: Operation Espionage may look like a typical mission-based platform, but in reality it is a comprehensive "spy" simulator. Since the genre is relatively scarce though out the Dreamcast library, players can be confused at first.

The object of the game is to complete 10 missions. Each mission could last 45 minutes to accomplish. You are set with four individual spies with there own unique attribute in where you take part of hacking control rooms, opening locks, shutting down infiltration and retrieving pieces - All done by your command.

Instead of moving each player, you are giving four separate viewing points of each spy. You are able to command them to proceed throughout the specific area(s). By pressing the 'start' button you open up the map to guide the player though his/her objective(s).

Music is mediocre at best. NEC could have improved on the sound effects. As for the audio, a recycled loop of techno-sphere.

Noticeably under-par with most Dreamcast games that were released in the same month. The simple textures applied to 'realistic' gameplay smashing on top anime-esqe agents makes you wonder what went wrong in development.

Gameplay is where ISOE really shines. The genre alone sets the bar high. Each mission is difficult and requires patience, and quick decision making which no other game can offer.

The 'Point and Click' driven engine that is priciest on each command. The only thing that I would prefer would be the usage of 'attack' button.

The overall experience playing ISOE felt refreshing. Where the idea has been used before (Trap Gunner, Elevator Action) ISOE takes it further into it's own genre.


7/10