Finding the best stealth games in 2023 can be a tricky task, particularly if you’re not all too familiar with the intricacies of today’s gaming sphere. Stealth games are a whirlwind of fun to play, particularly because such titles place great focus on catching enemies with the element of surprise.
In this guide, we’ll be revealing our shortlist of the finest stealth games that you can enjoy this year and beyond, paying particular attention to the factors that make them entertainment blockbusters. Additionally, we’ll be casting an eye toward accessibility by pinpointing the gaming platforms you can play these popular titles on.
Should you also be interested in reading more related content, then we definitely suggest you have a look at our article covering mobile games, particularly this detailed thought piece covering the best games for iOS devices. We've also got a list of the best heist games.
Hitman 3
This game is a supreme choice if you’re looking to operate as an undercover assassin. You’ll be controlling the game’s main character, Agent 47, who is easily capable of eliminating anyone who stands in his way.
Hitman 3 possesses classic stealth elements within the main storyline, as you’ll perform certain covert tasks, such as:
- eavesdropping on enemy conversations
- hiding bodies
- lockpicking
- sneaking past enemies
- wearing disguises to cover up your true identity
Moreso, the game incorporates a fair degree of travel as part of missions to various locations like Berlin and Dubai. The expansion of the game’s world map allows you to better plan your infiltration tactics and explore your assassination opportunities with a greater degree of depth than was previously possible in prior editions of this game.
Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain
Next up we have the legendary Metal Gear Solid 5, arguably one of the most gripping stealth games to have been released over the last decade.
Developed by the talented Kojima Productions team and published by Konami Digital Entertainment, this game allows you to think outside of the proverbial box in order to make progress. Within The Phantom Pain, you’re provided with a first-rate gaming experience that offers a wealth of tactical freedom during open-world missions.
For instance, you can come up with imaginative stealth ideas in the game like sliding down a sand dune using a cardboard box, or even dumping a bombshell of equipment crates onto a sniper’s head. All in all, if you’ve got the ability to devise an innovative move, Metal Gear Solid 5 provides you with the tools to make the most out of that conception.
You also get multi-platform access with this game, as you can purchase it via the PlayStation or Xbox store, in addition to Steam.
Dishonored 2
The first Dishonored title was a picture-perfect showcase of how in-game choices have future consequences. Dishonored 2 is a pretty good extension of that, making it a fitting sequel to the original game that was developed by Arkane Studios and published by Bethesda Softworks.
You’ll get to play as either Corvo Attano or the princess of Dunwall, Emily Caldwin. Bear in mind that this game has non-linear progression so you should expect to notice the knock-on effects of your decision making.
If you decide to take out your enemies in a more tactful manner, you can use the selection of supernatural abilities that come with either character to sneak up on enemies, or use shadow powers to craft more covert approaches to opposition territories.
This game is currently available for purchase on Steam, as well as other console devices like the PlayStation and Xbox.
Tom Clancy’s Splinter Cell: Blacklist
Here we have a timeless classic full of melee-based action and shadow stealth mechanics. You’ll play as the covert operator Sam Fisher, gathering critical intelligence and unearthing wild enemy conspiracies as you find your way through the storyline.
Tom Clancy’s Splinter Cell: Blacklist was created by Ubisoft, focusing on a third-person playing perspective. The camera focuses on your particular actions as a player, allowing you to choreograph sneaky attacks on unaware enemies.
But that’s not all, because you’re also able to hide enemy corpses and use a wide array of gadgets like night-vision goggles to help you journey through the shadows without being caught.
If you’re sold on this particular stealth gaming concept, then have a look at getting a copy for yourself through Steam or the Xbox store.
A Plague Tale: Requiem
Last but not least, we have a game that provides a pretty optimal blend of stealth and narrative development. A Plague Tale: Requiem is set in 14th-century France where the Black Plague runs riot. You’ll assume the heroic role of Amicia, who has the difficult task of protecting her little brother from the ongoing plague that has terrorised the country.
Survival is the name of this game, and one of the central tenets behind it involves acting cautiously with each move you make, especially because of the numerous dangers such as plague-bearing rat swarms and hostile soldiers.
Once you’ve got a little bit of experience making evasive decisions in this game, you’ll learn that avoiding fights against the Inquisition’s soldiers is one of the best ways to keep yourself afloat.
Therefore, you’ve got to master the act of remaining unseen, not to mention utilising hiding places and barriers to sneak past enemies.
That’s our take on the best stealth games that you can play in 2023. If you’ve enjoyed the read then we do suggest you have a look through our related post on the finest Android games.