A trailer was released for the animated Splinter Cell show on Netflix, filled with gunfights, car chases, and intense action scenes focused on our seasoned protagonist, Sam Fisher. The narrative hits close to his personal mission, with the tagline “Sam Fisher is back and this time, the mission is personal.” While it captures the visual style of a modern spy thriller, some fans feel it strays a bit from the original Splinter Cell flavor in its execution.

A critical element that fans seem to miss is the essence of traditional stealth mechanics; the franchise’s signature slow-paced tension seems replaced by a focus on action. Sam Fisher’s character, now portrayed differently, might feel off to some due to the absence of Michael Ironside in the role. The new character, Zinnia McKenna, played by Howell-Baptiste, is introduced and could provide fresh dynamics going forward.

Deathwatch is set to stream on Netflix starting October 14, 2025.