The stealth genre, while influential, has seen a decline in recent years as many games incorporate stealth mechanics without fully committing to the core principles that define it. While popular FPS and horror games offer stealth options, they often allow players to resort to combat, negating the true essence of stealth gameplay. True stealth games demand players remain silent, unseen, and unheard, relying on tools and skills centered around concealment, awareness, distraction, and incapacitation. The thrill of infiltrating, achieving the objective, and exfiltrating without a trace is unmatched. This list celebrates the best stealth games that deliver this experience.
While less prevalent, some upcoming stealth titles show promise and may earn a spot on this list in the future.
Note: This list includes only one entry per franchise.
Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain
Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain – Open World Stealth Action
- Platforms: PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox 360, Xbox One
- Genre: Action-Adventure, Stealth
- Developer: Kojima Productions
- Publisher: Konami
- Release Date: September 1, 2015
Selecting the best Metal Gear Solid title was challenging. While Metal Gear Solid revolutionized stealth gameplay and cinematic storytelling, earning its place among the best PS1 games, Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain ultimately provides a superior stealth experience. Its mechanical depth, diverse options, and dynamic enemy AI, which adapts to player tactics, create an unparalleled stealth sandbox.
Thief: The Dark Project
Thief: The Dark Project – Pioneering Stealth Gameplay
- Platforms: PC (Microsoft Windows)
- Genre: Stealth, Immersive Sim
- Developer: Looking Glass Studios
- Publisher: Eidos Interactive, Activision Value
- Release Date: November 30, 1998
Thief: The Dark Project pioneered stealth mechanics that are now considered standard, including light, darkness, and sound-based detection systems. In 1998, the concept of worrying about footstep noise or strategically manipulating light sources was revolutionary. Despite its dated visuals, Thief’s influence on the genre remains undeniable.
Sly 2: Band of Thieves
Sly 2: Band of Thieves – Lighthearted Stealth Adventure
- Platforms: PlayStation 2
- Genre: Platform, Stealth, Adventure
- Developer: Sucker Punch Productions
- Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment
- Release Date: September 14, 2004
Stealth games often gravitate towards serious tones. Sly 2: Band of Thieves stands out with its lighthearted, cartoonish approach. Building upon the foundation of the original, Sly 2 features explorable levels, playable characters with unique abilities, and engaging heists. While Sly 3 introduced more combat-focused characters, Sly 2 strikes a perfect balance between stealth gameplay and lighthearted fun.
Dishonored 2
Dishonored 2 – Immersive Sim Stealth at its Finest
- Platforms: PlayStation 4, PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox One
- Genre: Action-Adventure, Stealth, Immersive Sim
- Developer: Arkane Studios
- Publisher: Bethesda Softworks
- Release Date: November 11, 2016
Dishonored 2 expands upon the immersive sim gameplay of its predecessor with two playable characters, each possessing distinct powers and playstyles. The game emphasizes player choice, offering numerous approaches to infiltration and target elimination, including lethal and non-lethal options. However, Dishonored 2 truly shines in its intricate level design, exemplified by the iconic Clockwork Mansion.
Tom Clancy’s Splinter Cell
Tom Clancy’s Splinter Cell – Classic Stealth Espionage
- Platforms: Xbox, PC (Microsoft Windows), Mac, PlayStation 2
- Genre: Action, Stealth
- Developer: Ubisoft Montreal
- Publisher: Ubisoft Entertainment
- Release Date: November 12, 2002
Tom Clancy’s Splinter Cell introduced Sam Fisher and his signature night vision goggles, offering a more technologically advanced take on the stealth genre. Light and shadow play a crucial role, but with greater nuance than earlier titles. Sam utilizes a variety of gadgets, from under-door cameras to jammers. Unfortunately, later entries in the series shifted towards action, diminishing the focus on pure stealth gameplay.
Hitman World of Assassination
Hitman World of Assassination – The Ultimate Stealth Sandbox
- Platforms: Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 4, PlayStation VR, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox One
- Genre: Action-Adventure, Stealth
- Developer: IO Interactive
- Publisher: IO Interactive
- Release Date: January 26, 2023
Hitman World of Assassination compiles the three most recent Hitman games, offering a comprehensive stealth experience. While disguises are a common mechanic, Hitman integrates them seamlessly into its gameplay. The game combines expansive hub levels, intricate gadgets, and a touch of humor. Its defining characteristic, however, is the freedom it provides for player creativity, allowing for elaborate and often comical assassinations.
