IO Interactive steps away from Hitman for a tale of a Soviet invasion of New York. Bold staging, chilling alternate history mood and smooth squad management. The tech shows its limits but the concept stays wildly original. A pleasant surprise.
Your verdict
Category
Action1 player16+
Description
Hero Jacob battles Soviet forces invading New York in this EA Games GameCube action game. Published by EA Games, released in the United States in October 2003. Urban guerrilla action game with Jacob recruiting resistance fighters, varied combat tactics and film-inspired universe.
The NTSC release of Freedom Fighters is the US version of IO Interactive's game via EA. Collector value comes from the modest US print and from the franchise becoming a target for IO Interactive collectors since Hitman's continued success.
An underrated gem
Made by the future creators of Hitman, this action game turns a Soviet-occupied New York into guerrilla ground where you command a handful of resistance fighters with a single gesture. Released without fanfare and never given a sequel, it faded away. Its fluid squad system remains a model for anyone who loves accessible tactical action.
Is Freedom Fighters still worth playing in 2026?
A TPS action title by IO Interactive with an alternate history where the Soviet Union has invaded the United States, Freedom Fighters lets you lead a resistance in New York with a system of orders to give your teammates. The grey art direction and Jesper Kyd's orchestral soundtrack build a gripping atmosphere. The gameplay remains solid and the original concept still deserves discovery. For anyone fond of narrative TPS with a light tactical dimension, a warm recommendation that still works very well today.
