Mission 1

Extraordinary atmosphere. First time I can remember feeling transported into a woodland setting in this engine, which doesn’t lend itself well to organic shapes. Great humor throughout, too (the bookstore’s readable selection, the obliviously bad artist’s gallery). Also particular shout-out to the writers for keeping the readables short – nothing is overwritten, and as a result everything feels worth reading. One of those missions that balances perfectly a dense, nonlinear map with a tightly orchestrated series of reveals. Multiple optional/hidden objectives for the careful observer, with secrets abound and a truly incredible attention to detail. I didn’t want it to end!

Mission 2

Goodness. Had to split these two up because they’re so monumentally dense and complex. Part 2 is a grand ol’ spooky hotel in the mountains. Thief meets The Shining. Honestly? Combined with part 1, this is the best FM I’ve ever played. Absolutely drenched in atmosphere, pathos, humor, terror, and a true sense of discovery – a little bit of everything that makes Thief so appealing. The writing is fabulous throughout, the optional objectives are a delight to discover and complete, and the hotel itself is a wonder of level design: just the right balance of non-linear exploration and scripted surprises. I cannot recommend this highly enough.

I'm tempted to agree with this being the best FM, the amount of polish in the design is unmatched in 99% of both fan and original missions. It's so replayable as well, it doesn't get boring to me.