20. Thief (2014)

THIEF - Launch Trailer

Developer: Eidos Montreal

Genre: Stealth, Action-adventure

Themes: Medieval thievery with supernatural elements

Ok, ok. Garret the master-thief is actually opposed to killing random people, even if he does live in a nightmarish world of darkness and disease that looks like the worst fears of the Industrial Revolution. What is he doing in an assassins list? Two things: first, as you traverse the rooftops and streets stealing anything you can get your sticky fingers on, while uncovering a supernatural conspiracy in which you were accidentally involved, you’ll find you actually have the skills of an assassin, even if you choose not to kill. And secondly, if you have qualms with this you’re gonna hate the next entry. But let’s cross that bridge when it comes to it, ok?

Na na na na na na na na… guess who?

Using your natural agility and a stealthy approach, you must use the shadows to your advantage, either by avoiding light or extinguishing torches and candles. Apart from picking up everything of value that’s lying around, you also have the choice of sneaking behind someone and picking his pocket. And then wack him on the back of his head, if you want.

Or in the… nether regions.

With cool gadgets like water arrows to douse the flames, a cool little supernatural instinct to help you during the levels, an awesome hideout and supernatural plot, this remake brings the feeling of the old games to a new generation, ready to take the mantle of a master thief.

Thief Walkthrough Part 1 With Commentary - Sneaky Fun Times!

21. Batman Arkham Knight (2015)

Official Batman: Arkham Knight Trailer – “Gotham is Mine”

Developer: Rocksteady

Genre: Stealth, action-adventure

Themes: Superheroes. Batman.

Here we go. Batman. The caped-crusader with the no-kill rule. When the Scarecrow and the titular Arkham Knight take over Gotham and let the criminals loose against Batman, ol’ Brucie must make things right by punching people. But an assassin? No, not really. But if you’ve paid attention, all the mechanics and abilities every other guy on this list has is neatly summarized inside the pointy-eared cowl of Batman, with the only difference that he leaves broken bones and not severed limbs. So come on, it’s Batman, don’t gripe about that stuff and let’s have fun, ok?

Besides, tell me the guy on the left isn’t going to die after being run over. Come on.

The free flow combat is back, along with the gadgets, the “predator” stages, and everything you loved about the previous Arkham games. Oh, and now we have the Batmobile, which is a freaking missile launching tank. With expanded gameplay mechanics, you can even summon allies during your combos and pummel that cowardly, superstitious lot that is the criminal underworld. All this while trying to beat that guy who looks like a high tech version of yourself.

Dude, I totally have to call your Alfred to get some of that fancy armor.

An amazingly fun and engaging game, it did have some troubles with its launch on PC. But after a series of patches, suspending the sales and then starting anew, the developers are constantly improving and patching any issues it could have. So you should really try it out. I mean, just look at the gameplay and tell me it doesn’t look slick. So have fun squashing skulls non-lethally, and remember no one will judge you if you start saying “I’m Batman” after every takedown.

Batman Arkham Knight Stealth Gameplay - Best Stealth Takedowns

So, if you really need more convincing, I have no idea what you want. I mean, action, adventure, stealth and cool plots. From a blade in the dark to Batman, from snipers to ninjas, you will definitely find a game that gives you that surge of adrenaline that’ll help you kill time. And virtual enemies. So everyone wins.

Haven’t had your fill of virtual life being extinguished? Have a look at these other great articles for your reading pleasure.

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