Best Stealth Games That Are Not Part Of A Franchise

Key Takeaways

• Shadows of Doubt offers a procedural detective experience in a unique world.
• Invisible, Inc. merges stealth and tactics, keeping players engaged.
• Gloomwood brings back the immersive stealth of the Thief series.

Stealth games are a blast to play. Players everywhere love the idea of sneaking through the shadows and either avoiding their enemies, or taking them out silently. Games like Hitman, Deus Ex, and Metal Gear Solid are just a few examples of IPs that integrated stealth gameplay and turned into successful franchises in no time.

However, not all stealth video games need to turn into IPs that can pump out sequel after sequel. Some of the best games in the genre are one-and-done experiences that don’t overstay their welcome. Here are some non-franchise games for stealth lovers to check out.

8 Shadows Of Doubt

A Stealth Detective Game With Procedurally Generated Cases

Shadows of Doubt was in early access for a long time before finally enjoying a 1.0 release. It’s clear that a lot of work needs to be put into making this game polished and feature-rich, but most fans would argue that this title is on the right track.

The procedural nature of the cases shows mastery of video game design, letting players analyze clues and go through their list of suspects in a world that is different every single time. This ambitious gameplay features elements of the stealth genre as well. It’s one of the most impressive indie stealth games ever made, with its fair share of immersive detective elements.

7 Invisible, Inc.

A Turn-Based Stealth Tactics Game With Roguelike Elements

Any game that combines stealth gameplay with turn-based tactics needs to execute both elements seamlessly. Invisible, Inc. is pretty competent in this regard. It helps that this game incorporates some roguelike elements to keep things fresh and interesting.

Players must ensure that their top agents don’t place themselves in the line of fire, since this game has permadeath. Losing out on a valuable agent can be a nightmare, and players must ensure that their tactics are ironclad. This niche stealth game may not spawn a franchise, but is fun to play through regardless.

6 Prey

An Excellent Stealth-Focused Immersive Sim

The reboot of Prey turned an action-heavy game into an immersive sim with a focus on stealth. Arkane was at the top of their game at this point, and proved it with one of the best games they’d ever made. It offered some horror elements too, adding to the suspense.

The desolate halls of the Talos I slowly become familiar to players as they start braving the dangers coming their way. Uncovering the mystery at the heart of this title is a ton of fun, and it’s a shame that Prey failed to amass the sales needed to turn it into one of Arkane’s best IPs.

5 Mark Of The Ninja

One Of The Best 2D Side-Scrolling Stealth Games In The Genre

The rise of indie gaming allowed talented developers to put their own spins on established genres, and Mark of the Ninja is one example. Despite its 2D side-scrolling roots, most people would agree that Mark of the Ninja‘s stealth elements put other AAA games to shame.

Everything from light to cover plays a huge role in deciding the player’s chances of success in each level. Most players pursue unique builds that help tailor their sneaky playstyles to their interests. It’s a shame that more people don’t know about Mark of the Ninja, since it’s a great example of what the stealth genre is all about.

4 Shadow Tactics: Blades Of The Shogun

One Of The Best Stealth RTS Games Ever Made

Checking out a real-time strategy game with a focus on stealth can be daunting, but players who take the leap will get thoroughly immersed in one of the best modern stealth games ever made. Shadow Tactics: Blades of the Shogun elicits the energy of classic games like the Commandos series.

An RTS stealth game can make for a tough learning curve, but players who stick with this title will love the engaging gameplay of Blades of the Shogun. Completing missions and escaping by the skin of their teeth is as satisfying as can be, and makes every level in Shadow Tactics a joy to navigate.

3 Republique

A Story-Heavy Adventure Game With A Focus On Stealth

Unlike most other stealth games, Republique doesn’t let players control the main character directly. Instead, players take on the role of a guardian angel who allows Hope to escape her captors. It’s a unique take on the stealth genre.

Whether players resonate with Republique hinges on whether they love the tone of this game. Hope serves as a beacon of rebellion against a totalitarian regime that doesn’t prioritize human rights. If the narrative resonates with players, then the tension of the stealth gameplay can hit harder.

2 Deathloop

A Brilliant Immersive Sim That Incorporates A Time Loop

The idea of playing an immersive sim with Arkane’s stellar gameplay that centers around a time loop makes Deathloop an easy sell for many players. Fans were floored by the fun action of this title as players snuck around with the goal of taking out eight Visionaries in a single run.

This can be quite challenging, especially if players try to take on enemies in head-on combat. The better option is to be stealthy and conserve resources so that players aren’t hanging on by a thread as they try to assassinate the last few Visionaries that stand in their way.

1 Gloomwood

An Indie Homage To Immersive Sims

Players who miss the Thief series will love what Gloomwood brings to the table. This game takes place in a dark, gothic world that can be a nightmare to navigate. The doctor that players control must sneak through the shadows. The stellar level design of this title ensures that players have multiple options to navigate areas with ease.

The immersive sim elements of this game further enhance the stealth gameplay. Players find it quite easy to be immersed in a world that’s a joy to explore. Once the game is polished, Gloomwood may become the latest indie darling that fans will flock towards.