First of all, this is a review from someone who bought the game in 2021, and is meant purely for those who are curious if this multiplayer focused game is "worth it for single-player." If you can temper your expectations properly, the the answer is a very strong yes. It might not be what the game was intended for, or it's strongest suit, but you can have an absolute blast with this game playing "single-player." BUT you do need to be in the right mindset... don't go in expecting a typical single-player campaign. If you play offline, without other humans, you'll be playing against bots in multiplayer areans to unlock challenges in the game's five different modes. Sorta like unlocking new tracks in a racing game. And don't expect much of a plot or to be exploring levels or a world like you would in other campaigns. But if you're okay with that, this game can be more fun than most (NOT ALL, but still most) "real" single-player campaigns in other FPSes. Unreal Tournament GOTY is polished like crazy, it runs well, the controls are extremely smooth and responsive and just feel great, the weapons are fun, satisfying, and balanced for this type of play, the sound effects are equally satisfying, the OST is... not exactly memorable (you'll usually be too busy blowing stuff up to listen to it), but it's still very pleasant, and I love the synth, electronic, drum and bass, etc. styles here a ton, and it's even a shockingly nice game to look at if you like sci-fi aesthetics and can take it being over 20 years old. I dunno, maybe it's just the fact that it at least gives you a goal, of unlocking more challenges to complete. It still kinda feels like you're playing through a game you know? Playing against bots in something like Unreal Gold or Perfect Dark is mostly just a diversion from the "main" game with no real goal to work towards. Here, you have a proper sense of progression. Well, that and it just feels insanely fun to play. Sometimes simple and fun gameplay is enough.
