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Reviewed by Benjamin Barr
Your objective is clear. Sneak into the museum, steal the sapphire, and return to the taskmaster for your next assignment. You put on your thief’s outfit and gear up with all the necessary equipment. You enter the museum grounds and slip past the guards. Inside, the exhibit is just ahead. You tiptoe over to it and reach for the gem… but you trigger the alarm! You’re playing one of the best stealth games, and it’s your move.
The best stealth games require players to use stealth, cunning, and strategy to complete their objectives. Moreover, they encourage sneak attacks and clandestine maneuvers by rewarding players with a range of stealthy tools and equipment. The result? Heart-pounding gameplay that satisfies the little gremlin within all of us.
This article takes you through the top 10 best stealth games, with options for every gaming device on the market. We’ll also take a sneak peek at the genre’s hottest upcoming titles and pull the curtain back on some of the coolest stealth mechanics. Without further ado, let’s get to it.
10 Best Stealth Games
We curated the following list of stealth games to give you a comprehensive overview of the best titles on the market.
1. Aragami
Our pick for one of the best co-op stealth games
- Website: http://aragami-game.com/
- Platform: PC, Mac, Linux, PS4, Xbox One, Switch
- Genre: Action-Adventure, Stealth
- Developer: Lince Works
- Release: 2016
From the gameplay to the graphics, Aragami is one of the best stealth games on the market. Assume control of Aragami, a shadow spirit in search of mystical talismans, as you traverse a series of levels packed with challenges. To succeed, you’ll need to sneak your way past a variety of obstacles, using your unique shadow powers to your advantage. Keep to the darkness and you may just succeed.
2. Sniper Elite 4
Our pick for one of the best stealth games Xbox One
- Website: https://sniperelite4.com/
- Platform: PC, PS4, Xbox One
- Genre: Shooter, Stealth
- Developer: Rebellion Developments
- Release: 2017
Sniper Elite 4 is the newest addition to the series lineup, and it includes the same stealth shooter mechanics you know and love. Set in Italy during WWII, players assume the role of Karl Fairburne whose been sent by the British military on a clandestine assignment. The mission? Assassinate top Nazi commanders and help the Allies win the war. It’ll take your entire tactical skills to carry out the task, but the payoff is unimaginable.
3. Hitman 2
Our pick for one of the best stealth games PC
- Website: https://hitman.com/
- Platform: PC, PS4, Xbox One
- Genre: Stealth
- Developer: IO Interactive
- Release: 2018
The Hitman series is known for its innovative stealth mechanics, and Hitman 2 is no exception. Step into the shoes of Agent 47 as he embarks on a mission in search of the elusive Shadow Client. You’ll need to carry out espionage operations around the globe, searching high and low if you want any chance of catching him. Hitman 2 features an array of exciting new gadgets, weapons, and a full-fledged co-op mode to assist you on your journey.
4. Mark of the Ninja: Remastered
Our pick for one of the best ninja stealth games
- Website: https://www.klei.com/
- Platform: PC, Mac, Linux, PS4, Xbox One, Switch
- Genre: Platform, Stealth
- Developer: Klei Entertainment
- Release: 2018
Mark of the Ninja is a bit different than the others on our list due to its side-scrolling layout and uniquely immersive plot. Players take control of The Ninja as he embarks on a journey in search of revenge. Sneak through various levels, avoiding obstacles and assassinating your enemies along the way. Stick to the shadows, and all will be well. But be wary! One wrong move and your cover is blown. The game features many popular stealth mechanics including line-of-sight alerts, noise meters, and shadow cover, and it’s the perfect stealth game for ninja game fans.
5. Dishonored: Death of the Outsider
Our pick for one of the best stealth games PS4
- Website: http://dishonored.bethesda.net/
- Platform: PC, PS4, Xbox One
- Genre: Action-Adventure, Stealth
- Developer: Arkane Studios
- Release: 2017
Equipped with a shortsword and a small tactical arsenal, players assume the role of Lurk as she embarks on a series of dangerous missions. Her objective? Infiltrate the void-worshipping cult known as the Eyeless to kill the Outsider and restore balance to the world. With the help of newfound supernatural abilities, progress through the storyline and assassinate every enemy that stands in your way. Dishonored perfectly balances action and stealth gameplay for a truly immersive gaming experience.
6. Batman: Arkham Asylum
Our pick for one of the best action stealth games
- Website: https://rocksteadyltd.com/
- Platform: PC, Mac, PS4, Xbox One
- Genre: Action-Adventure, Stealth
- Developer: Rocksteady Studios
- Release: 2009
If you’re a comic book junkie, Batman: Arkham Asylum is sure to satisfy your stealth and superhero fix. The plot is centered around Gotham’s asylum for the criminally insane, but things aren’t as they should be. The Joker and friends are up to their usual mischief and it’ll take stealthy investigations and a whole lotta firepower to root out the corruption. Think you’re up for the task? Check Arkham Asylum out on PC and console.
7. Metal Gear Solid V
Our pick for one of the best adventure stealth games
- Website: https://www.konami.com/
- Platform: PC, PS4, Xbox One
- Genre: Action-Adventure, Stealth
- Developer: Kojima Productions
- Release: 2015
Metal Gear Solid V is the 9th installment in the franchise, and it elevates the series to new heights. As such, the game is set during the Cold War and takes place in the Middle East in the year 1984. Players assume the role of Venom, a mercenary leader intent on tracking down an oppositional military alliance. Armed with extensive stealth training and a tactical skill set, traverse the open-world environment and carry out missions as you please.
8. Assassin’s Creed Odyssey
Our pick for one of the best stealth story games
- Website: https://assassinscreed.ubisoft.com/
- Platform: PC, PS4, Xbox One, Switch
- Genre: Action, RPG, Stealth
- Developer: Ubisoft
- Release: 2018
Assassin’s Creed Odyssey is the newest addition to the mega-popular franchise. The game boasts a brilliant open world map alongside an immersive story and kickass stealth-based mechanics. Set in 432 BC during the Peloponnesian War, players enter the fray as a powerful assassin’s who’s there to tip the scales. Choose your side and take on contracts to infiltrate the opposition and assist your chosen faction. The game boasts exciting gameplay, as well as a skill tree system and thrilling assassinations.
9. Styx: Master of Shadows
Our pick for one of the best stealth video games
- Website: http://www.styx-game.com/
- Platform: PC, PS4, Xbox One
- Genre: Stealth
- Developer: Cyanide
- Release: 2014
Styx: Master of Shadows has players take control of Styx as he infiltrates the Tower of Akenash in search of his kidnapped comrade. The only problem? The floating fortress is protected by guards, soldiers, and a number of other deadly obstacles. Make your way to the tower and get to work luring your targets into the darkness. Styx: Master of Shadows is an excellent stealth game with a gripping storyline and immersive play.
10. Invisible, Inc
Our pick for one of the best mobile stealth games
- Website: https://www.klei.com/
- Platform: PC, Mac, Linux, PS4, iOS
- Genre: Turn-Based, Stealth
- Developer: Klei Entertainment
- Release: 2015
As the only turn-based game on our list, Invisible, Inc is a unique stealth title that places an emphasis on tactics and espionage. Take control of a secret agent handler as he gears up for a major covert operation. Lead your team of subordinates as you authorize missions around the world and engage with enemies on a turn-by-turn basis. Sneak around opposition outposts and collect intel by disabling cameras, breaking into safes, and stealing closely guarded secrets. Invisible, Inc offers thrilling gameplay and remains one of the best iOS and Android stealth games on the market.
Additional Top 3 Stealth Games
Next let’s take a look at the top 3 upcoming stealth titles:
1. A Plague Tale: Innocence
- Website: http://aplaguetale.com/
- Platform: PC, PS4, Xbox One
- Genre: Action-Adventure, Stealth
- Developer: Asobo Studio
- Release: 2019
A Plague Tale takes place in medieval Europe during the time of the Black Plague. Players take control of Amicia as she and her younger brother navigate across the perilous disease-infested continent. The game places a big emphasis on puzzle, tactics, and stealth, and it takes a strategic masterplan to make it ‘through the Black Death alive. The game is slated for a 2019 release.
2. The Last of Us Part II
- Website: https://www.thelastofus.playstation.com/
- Platform: PS4
- Genre: Action-Adventure, Survival, Stealth
- Developer: Naughty Dog
- Release: TBA
There’s no official release date yet, but that hasn’t stopped the flurry of speculation and excitement. The Last of Us Part II is the long-awaited follow up to Naughty Dog’s smash hit action-adventure survival title that follows Joel and Ellie on an epic adventure across America. Set 5 years down the line, return to the dangerous post-apocalyptic world as you sneak your way to back safety.
3. Thief Simulator VR
- Website: https://store.steampowered.com/
- Platform: Oculus Rift, HTC Vice
- Genre: Stealth
- Developer: GameBoom VR
- Release: TBA
Think you’ve got what it takes to be a master thief? Put your skills to the test as you roam through wealthy neighborhoods in search of valuables. Gear up, gather intel, and prepare your loot for sale on the black market. VR is the perfect way to experience Thief Simulator, and the game is coming soon to a virtual reality headset near you!
What are Stealth Games?
A stealth game is a type of video game that requires players to use use stealth and cunning to complete their objectives and progress through levels. To that end, there is a large emphasis on hiding, sneaking, and using the cover of darkness to maneuver past obstacles and take out opponents. There are many different types of stealth games, though the genre’s mechanics are primarily used in conjunction with action and adventure titles.
The genre got its start in the early 1980’s with the release of titles like 005 and Castle Wolfenstein. These games made extensive use of espionage and thievery mechanics to provide thrilling action and challenging playthroughs– and they became big commercial hits. Today’s outlook? The genre remains as popular as ever, with many indie and studio titles incorporating stealth-based gameplay into their games.
General Thoughts on Stealth Games
We’ve penned our thoughts on the stealth genre for a deeper look at its mechanics and history.
1. You’ve got to be sneaky.
A simple disguise and quickfire action just won’t cut it. The best stealth games require players to sneak their way through entire levels and action sequences.
2. Shadows are an important element.
Shadows play a huge role in the level design of most stealth games. Stick to the shadows for safety, and stay away from spotlights and brighter areas to avoid detection.
3. Watch the line of sight.
The line of sight is the area that guards and NPCs can see in front of them. It’s important to keep this in mind as you move about the map and strategize your next move.
4. Audio takes it a step further.
Many games incorporate shadows and line of sight, but physics engines and audio take things a step further. Bump into a table, knock over a lamp, or breathe too heavily, and the enemies are sure to catch you!
5. It’s a popular crossover genre.
You’ll rarely find games that can only be defined by the “stealth” label (though our list includes one or two). Instead, it’s a popular addition to other video game genres like adventure, action, and survival titles.
Further Reading
Did you find what you were looking for? There are even more awesome game lists to check out below:
- Best Survival Games
- Best Roguelike Games
- Best Platform Games
- Best Puzzle Games
- Best Open World Games
- Best Sandbox Games
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