First of all, if you want to get this running properly on a modern system, make sure to install the latest version of the Dash Faction patch, which fixes many bugs and issues otherwise preventing the game from working properly.
Built from the scraps of what was supposed to be Descent 4, Red Faction is the definition of a decent FPS. On paper, Red Faction had several innovative features, but in practice, these don't leave much of an impression. Most notably, the much-touted GeoMod engine with its destructible environments is largely underused, as the destruction only makes sense, and often is only possible, in designated spots, which typically are required for progression. Creativity is neither intended nor possible—for instance, there was a part where two bridges were separated by a chasm, and I thought it would be possible to destroy the steel beams holding the bridge on the other side, so that I could jump over. It wasn't possible, and the bridge didn't even have a scratch after multiple rocket hits. The vehicle sections are functional, but rather short and not too exciting, and the final APC section controls horribly. There is also a stealth section, but it's very short and far from interesting mechanically.
The gunplay is somewhat hampered by the fact that guns are terribly inaccurate. Coupled with enemies strafing heavily, it's not uncommon to have one's crosshair locked onto an enemy, yet miss every single bullet in a mag. Later on, one is given more precise and powerful weaponry at last, which is sorely needed due to opposition being much fiercer during the last third of the game. On hard difficulty, the game is definitely challenging, which is a good thing, since the game is seriously short at less than five hours.
All these issues aside, I still found myself entertained playing Red Faction. The level design is fairly creative, the setting original, and the pacing of the plot never slows down until the very end. Worth it on sale.
