Comparing the 3DS version to the consoles is a bad idea!
Graphics: Let's be fair, it is a handheld, it is not a handheld of the Xbox or any other console system. That being said, the 3DS has the best graphics of any handheld to date. Splinter Cell 3DS looks impressive on it. Yes, it could look better, but it is a launch title, give or take a week or two. Many people complain about how dark it is, I don't see the problem, considering the whole idea of the game is to keep in the dark. If you see your reflection on the screen then move some where else where it isn't as bright. To get the best visual bliss from this game you must play it in a very dim room. Playing it in the darkness only increases the thrill of the game, as the game plays, yes, "In the dark!" Would you play a dark and scary game like Silent Hill in the brightest room in the house? No. Most people shut all the blinds in the room or wait until it is night time so they can scare the crap out of themselves. I am one of those fools.
Game Play: Surprisingly, the controls are smooth. I have not had a single issue with the camera or walking around the levels. When an enemy starts coming closer to me I haven't had a single issue slowly edging closer to the enemy with the analog stick. It isn't what most people would think when moving Sam Fisher with the 3DS. It's not like playing the normal DS as it would feel blocky as you move your character. The movements are just like you'd expect from an analog controller; smooth and responsive. When I want to open a door, a door opens. That goes along with attacking the enemy. No matter the level or how easy the game may be I feel a sense of being on pins and needles as I turn the unknowing corner. The game is easy, but it's a handheld and it's Sam Fisher in your pocket. If you have played the original version, which I am doing so at the very moment, I actually found a flawless copy, you will enjoy it. The levels are layed out the same way and even the missions are the exact same. It is just an all around fun game.
I have spent countless hours playing this game. I can see the complaints to some diehard fans of Splinter Cell, wanting it to be harder, but what is a handheld for anyways? It is so people can sit back for 10, 20, or even 30 minutes and play a game. Splinter Cell may be a game you probably will play longer than 30 minutes, because it sucks you in, but it is a game to be played to give you instant gratification. I feel awesome to go through a mission feeling like I am doing it legitimately, but when I go through the original game on the Xbox I see the challenges I take advantage for in the 3DS version. You do miss out on the difficulty of figuring out whether to kill the enemy gaurd or just let him pass by. Typically in the 3DS version you can kill everyone and not really be harmed for it. But it is fun. FUN! After you play through this game and if you have any of the mainstream consoles out today, you will probably go out and want to play more of Sam Fisher wanting more. I keep wanting to play it, even though it is easy. LEGOS is fun, isn't it?