I am a big sucker for immersive sim stealth games like the Thief series and Dishonoured. Sadly those games are quite few and far between as they are unprofitable. It is somewhat of a niche market and the nonlinearity and deep lore makes developing it harder. But still in my heart I thank all the previous games and pray for more of them.
Immersive Sim is my favorite genre. I hope more devs can continue to make them, because when they're done well, nothing can beat them in terms of fun and replayability.
While I would love it if I could say I was sure you people were aware of Weird West, I can't, because it wasn't exactly Elden Ring. In fact, it was an immersive sim with the gall to release in the same yearly quarter as Elden Ring! I can't comment on its quality, as while I own it, I have yet to play it. But it's an immersive sim with an interesting setting with minds behind the likes of Dishonored involved in its creation.
I remember watching that clip of Sam Fisher referencing Solid Snake on YT, the way he says, "it's only me" I find genuinely haunting, and sad. Because I was a young man who just left school when MGS1 and splinter cell released a few years apart from each other... and now that's all over, that era/genre is over :/
I played MGS1 in high school. I was sick and binged it over the course of a week. Probably one of my fondest gaming experiences. I've never fully played a Splinter Cell game and yet that Sam clip still gets me whenever I watch it. It's like I can hear the devs themselves saying it. The end of an era, and it just went out with a whimper.
What game is that clip even from? The used the wrong voice actor in Blacklist, and that clip doesn't look old enough to be from any of the other games.
I'm amazed that you didn't mention the Batman Arkham games, especially Arkham Asylum where the relative small levels, enemy placements and tools at your disposal can give you a ton of creative options for stealth. I'm aware that AA is not strictly a stealth game, but the stealth is so engaging that you WANT to remain undetected.
Not to mention, the stealth-parts in the Arkham games have a TON of depth. The enemies become increasingly-erratic, they adapt to your tactics, new elements are introduced that negate your X-ray vision or remove your vantage-points.
You nailed it by describing stealth games as a type of puzzle game. I didn't pick up on it myself until the recent Hitman trilogy. Sure, it has crouching and a detection meter, but that alone is rarely enough to succeed. And like puzzle games, a stealth game oftentimes has a brute force solution, but it isn't as satisfying, or it outright punishes you for not finding a solution. Games with "stealth mechanics" usually miss that and the worst that happens is you get forced into an action sequence that was just one of the other game mechanics.
Splinter Cell and MGS are far less puzzle games than Hitman. Hitman annoyed me because I tried to play it like a stealth game and you just can't. Key example for me is in MGS and SC you can turn all the hud elements off and still get through. Hitman has random enemies that spot you in whatever disguise you're currently wearing. I kept getting to a point of "Okay, how do the devs want me to do this, because I can't do it how I want." Or whatever challenges there were, where you had to learn their full routes and timing triggers to push someone onto someone else or something. Hitman also frankly has pretty piss-poor combat because they don't want you doing that. Splinter Cell did that too for some of the earlier games and it sucked.
@@JZStudiosonline Part of why I love Thief 2 so much is because it has kind of a sandbox approach that allows you to handle problems in ways the devs may never even have thought of
@@JZStudiosonline I prefer to think of stealth games as a form of problem solving than puzzle games because you have more than 1 way of solving a problem, while puzzle games only have one answer to a problem.
@@iswitchedsidesforthiscat That's not inherently true, I just played a puzzle game and had some different solutions than what was shown in guides. But for later puzzles I think it only had 1 option and you had to figure out which of the 16 starting options was the correct one. I'm still going to say Hitman is a puzzle game. You have to do events in a pre-defined order. They give some options that don't really matter, but tie progression to challenges that require brute force methods, and the AI walk in loops to facilitate the linear puzzle aspect. For example, in one mission you have to know the enemy AI pathing and timing to push one character on top of another character to kill both. Didn't like Hitman much.
Every game is essentially a puzzle game. And people tend to watch videos about how to beat a levels, so it comes off as easy. My advice when playing games avoid watching other people play for as long as possible. That way you sneak around not knowing which is the surest way to not get caugh.
A recommendation for a future video: the decline of HORROR GAMES. They're suffering the same problem as stealth games -- titles are now oversaturated with as many gameplay mechanics as possible that genres are blurring together, like you said, and a lot of niche games genres (like stealth and horror) are losing their identity. I haven't played a good horror game in a while so maybe I'm behind on the times but that was my first thought when you started this video. For example, Dead Space 2 is arguably one of the best horror games of all time and Dead Space 3 was just another un-scary action game trying to be everything to everyone. And that's one of the main problems with games now...it's either 1.) everyone is trying to go the live service route and convince you that cosmetic upgrades and slight gameplay variations with each repetitive event is both innovative and interesting, or 2.) AAA game releases are now trying to encompass as many elements from as many genres as possible that at times games seem unfinished, unpolished, or outright broken (I love Elden Ring too, but it falls in this category). Again, love your stuff and your humor. Thanks man!
Horror games is a good idea for a video. I think I'd want to take some different angle though. I had a bunch of ideas to talk about different genres, but the problem is very similar for most of them, being the one I describe at the end of this video. So with videos on other genres/games I'd want to do something different than just talking about them blending together like I did here. The live-service and shady monetization is a good angle, possibly for series like Fallout as well as Dead Space 3. I'll definitely be writing that down. And a video on games like Cyberpunk and the rush to include so many things that it leaves the game unfinished is another good idea I got from your comment. I think for horror games I'd need to brainstorm something unique about them to talk about. Thanks for the suggestion!
Yeah. The best horror game I have played in five years is Omori. I really haven't been interested in horror for a while, largely due to most new "horror" games abandoning their roots.
As someone who grew up playing Stealth games as their favorite genre of game (Hitman Blood Money, Splinter Cell Chaos Theory and MGS 3 being some of my favorite games of all time), I appreciate the effort you put into this video
Oh God. Chaos Theory is one of my favorite games of all time. Splinter Cell never got as in depth mechanically as Hitman or MGS, but Chaos Theory has stuck with me for so long. The dynamic lighting and noise systems is the combo I've needed and missed for so long in the genre. All these other mechanics are nice, but those are the 2 that really make me feel immersed when I'm trying to be a ninja
I felt the same way whenever I try the "stealth" route in modern games but couldn't really describe why I found them so unsatisfying...this was a very useful video.
I know the Tenchu series was probably a little bit too far before your time but it is the best example of a good stealth game in my opinion. I tend to stay away from stealth games that have guns just because they usually end up just being a sniper simulation for me. Everything you said about Ghost of Tsushima, Tenchu pioneered.
I disagree entirely with your thoughts on MGSV. There are missions that force a direct approach, but that's normal for final boss fights in MGS with large setpieces. This game is the culmination of Kojima's stealth game know how and development. The stealth missions are infinitely fun, and he even made it more accessible.
A big problem I have with the evolution of the stealth genre is that it started out that you were the weak guy who needed to sneak around because you couldn't fight anyone directly. But as it evolved, now you're the super killer, and the reason why you do stealth is to murder as many people as you can without anyone noticing you're there.
As long as people enjoy video games there’s going to be passionate devs making good ones. Someone who loves stealth could make something amazing with our current tech. I just hope they get the support and resources they need to make it, like Kojima got with MGS1.
Mgsv gives more options. Stealth is highly advice because action will get you destroyed. You could snipe a whole outpost without anyone even hearing you or you could run up to someone and knock them out. Or you can open fire with no suppressor and kill everyone. This isn’t different from any other metal gear game the controls are just easier so kill guards so guard are tougher and more plentiful.
Stealth games haven’t declined in popularity. Stealth game have ALWAYS been niche. And will always be niche. And devs/publisher don’t like that they lack the mass market appeal and high return that other genres bring. Also you missed Tenchu and Thief, which also came out in 98.
This channel is going to blow up. Great presentation. Great scripting. Intelligent commentary... good job brotha... can't wait to take this ride with u.
I understand that you cannot talk about every single stealth game, but one of the bigger franchises that keeps the genre alive to me is the "Sniper Elite" series. To me they stand shoulder to shoulder with the new Hitman Trilogy
Recently tried out Metal Gear Solid V: Ground Zeroes just to dabble in Stealth games for a bit and god damn, the atmosphere, graphics and overall immersiveness were insane. Like, contextual stuff guards are talking about, different finishers when hiding and just overall feel. Really cool!
My issues is that they are more immersion breaking than most other genres: Like you become invisible in a shadow everyone should be able to see. Guards are basically blind and hearing disabled and have a memory of 30 seconds. But I can see though walls.
i've been binging your videos and holy shit you're script writing is amazing, it's been awhile since i've genuinely been so captivated by video game related video essays. please continue keeping up the amazing work
Green screen video essays are the superior format! Actually getting to see a youtubers personality through their mannerisms and body language makes the video watching experience much more personal! Keep the format!
Yeah I didn't realize how much potential it had until I saw NakeyJakeys videos, but now I think everybody should do it if they want to. It just makes the video grab your attention more like you're giving a ted talk or something lol.
To be honest, I never really saw Assassin's Creed as a stealth game. It seems more of an action game with stealth stapled on like Far Cry or Uncharted.
Dude it’s like way early in the morning I’ve been up all night and your video just started auto playing and man I cannot believe how little likes you have gotten for such a well put together and edited video this was keep it up man you have got yourself a new subscriber
I'm glad Shadow Tactics got mentioned at least :D I love stealth as well and this is one of my favourite games of all time. Even tho I have every achievement and basically know every guards position and route in every level, I regularly replay the game. It's such a shame that the development studio who made it, Mimimi Studio, had to close down
Yo, your vocal presentation is amazing. I’ve done theatre and your pronunciation is great. Also, Splinter Cell Blacklist was actually a good game, man… I remember hating Conviction because it was more action focused while Blacklist went back to giving you gadgets and tools to be stealthy. It allowed action, like Dishonored, but had many tools for stealth gameplay, again, like Dishonored. You should definitely check it out if it goes on sale. It was a gem that was overlooked because the one before it sucked.
also: stealth is hard. "shoot everything until it dies" is easy. Game journalists are notoriously bad at gaming. Making stealth the main focus, and complex, is likely to make the game journalist claim that the game is too hard, and reduce sales. It's also more difficult to scale the difficulty of stealth gameplay versus action. Modifying action gameplay is simply a matter of altering damage outputs, while modifying stealth gameplay means adapting the game to accommodate better or worse strategies.
I realized the whole line between action and stealth games blurring while playing the splinter cell series. In the original Splinter Cell as well as Splinter Cell Chaos theory you can control your exact movement speed and how much noise your making. They also tell you how hidden you are in the shadows. Then with Splinter Cell Blacklist it’s just crouch to be sneaky and parkour. Yes it still felt like a stealth game but the precision of the original is gone.
1:06 Like you said, I don't think it was an option. When I check the game card on consoles it labels stealth games like: MGSV: TPP, SC: Blacklist as "Action & Adventure"(Unlike PC stores like steam). Some of those games bought in the action and adventure genres may have been stealth titles. I'm unsure if this study was done on consoles only, pc only, or combined and I know stealth is less popular today but, c'mon.
I found your open world game video assay. Your scripts are so well constructed. You know these games so in depth (those that you know at least) and yet you look like you have a life!
Great video! The message for the industry is really one I wish they‘d take to heart. (Side note: I think you understated Thiefs influence though, when mentioning only metal gear solid as the main influence of splinter cell‘s, and Deus Ex‘s stealth, and putting it in the same category, influence and depth wise, with the original metal gears and castle wolfenstein, when at least in my opinion it fits not just chronologically, but also in the previous categories more into the group with Tenchu, and Metal Gear Solid…)
Really solid and thought-out video! For all that the stealth genre has done for gaming, it's an absolute shame to see it in its current state; especially now that the tech exists to really do it justice. While it falls outside the scope of what you wanted to focus on, one of the best stealth games I've played in a long time was Mark of the Ninja from a few years back. It manages to bring much of the depth of a proper stealth game (managing noise levels, light level, enemy line of sight/cone of sight, learning patrols and hiding bodies) into a 2D side-scroller way better than I expected, and really makes you feel like a badass for pulling off clean no kill/no alert runs of levels. While most big studios seem content with lower-hanging fruit these days, there are definitely still some small ones looking to keep stealth alive.
Spot on explanation. Gamers got casual and dont wanna think and play smart anymore, that's why new stealth sections are lazy as devs adopt to more casual approach. I miss old games and MGS will still remain my fav stealth and game franshize ever.
Best stealth games ive played in recent years has been hunting games. Getting close to an animal, undetected, and landing the perfect double lung or heart shot is quite satisfying.
Stealth as a genre is revolutionary. The fact that I could do a run-through of an MGS game without killing someone takes skill and is something to behold and cherish more compared to a market saturated with first-person shooters where you're aimlessly killing everything on screen.
As with every genre, when the triple a industry moves on to the next toy to play with, indie games pick up the slack. I recommend covert critter to metal gear solid fans, its one of many awesome indie stealth games out there. (Specifically made for mgs fans)
Could have earlier games too, but when you mentioned Siren as adding stealth to horror, my brain went to Clock Tower for the Snes/Super Famicom. The interactivity was very point n' click puzzle game, but the premise and main mechanic was a tiny yet invincible man with giant scissors chasing you around and popping up out of nowhere to get you, forcing you to hide, run away, and find ways to all around not die.
a little thing to add: all the mgs games were made from scratch instead of using the other games as bases. this is a big reason why mgsv was so expensive to make
Hitman 2: Silent Assassin is one of my favorite stealth games. It's buggy as all shit, but the satisfaction you get from beating a level on Silent Assassin, after carefully placing your saves (if you're playing on expert, the best difficulty), learning the ins-and outs of the level, getting used to the mechanics and learning the criteria for SA to finally, at the end, execute your plan and get the fuck outta dodge is unparalleled. Stealth is such an underrated genre of games.
@@morkgin2459 Blood money is the most replayable (barring Hitman 3 with all previous maps included) and Contracts has the best rating system for Silent Assassin
I never found stealth mechanics boring even once in my life. Also why would everyone end up being a stealth archer in Skyrim like the meme said if it was so bad? Imo it's more about the devs who find stealth mechanics a relic of the past, like they did with split screen
5:30 Correction, game has practically 2 endings depending on chaos. It doesn't change levels beside the last one. Other changes are purely cosmetic not mechanic like Emily drawing different things, or seeing different posters on the street
20:10 Anybody else have a moment EXACTLY LIKE THIS, but they aimed too low, and hit AN INVISIBLE HIT BOX that slightly protruded from what the step looked like?
We came a long way with the AI smartness in stealth games, but the one big wish I have, is that the enemies stop recognizing your walking footsteps from the 20 other guys, that are patrolling nearby.
I just found your channel and I'm glad this video is the one that popped up! I really love stealth games so thank you for showing the decline in stealth games because maybe it will inspire some dev to make a good one!
It's only a matter of time the Algorithm notices your stuff Your essays hit a nice sweet spot of not too long, not too short I loved your take on Elden Ring
" when that came out, I was 1." Oh dang, I feel old. That does make me realize something I took for granted though. Growing up alongside the medium of video games has given me much more knowledge and understanding of it than I realized. Makes me wonder what kind of experience my son will have with games.
Well MGS 1 came out in 1998 and Thief came out in 1998, so I choose to believe that Thief is the game that everyone copied now and for all times. What now Mr UA-cammanofficer? No seriously game industry, Thief affected lots of people and we would really like some full ghost, high realism thief games pls. Like as a treat?
if you wanna play a good Splinter Cell, the third one(Chaos Theory) is usually considered the best; they are also working on a remake of the first one, so you can also play that when it comes out.
Great video! You should check out Styx. Highly underrated stealth game where you play as a goblin infiltrating a castle. Game is pure stealth and nothing else!
The two things I took from this video is that allowing you to be sadistic is the main criteria for a good stealth game and the feeling of being old.(like seriously dishonored is 10 years old?)
I love games that have stealth options. Games like ghost recon future soldier and wildlands were both games where I loved the ability to take out one or two guys at a time.
After Kojima's announcement he's coming back to direct a stealth game, I hope there's still hope for the genre. I'm hyped over what he could bring as something new to the table.
If there's one thing Splinter Cell always did well and innovated on from its inception, it was the lighting. By God the shadows in the classic Splinter Cell games are some of the best ever made. You literally disappear in them if they're dark enough, can't even make out a silhouette.
What a great video. Finally some true love for the stealth genre. You have earned a sub. I look forward to watching the rest of your videos and your upcoming ones as well.
Great video. You mentioned you haven't had much exposure to the Splinter Cell series -- I recommend you give Splinter Cell Chaos Theory a shot, as it's held by fans as one of the best in the series (biased opinion, as it's my favorite in the series, and one of my favorite games ever).
I gotta say, I usually kinda hate stealth games and stealth sections in games, but Tsushima actually did the stealth stuff pretty well, and most of the time stealth wasn't forced. You could still charge in head first, but you were gonna probably regret doing so. At the same time, you could flail around or brute force your way thru it. And I really liked that. It doesn't do a whole lot of things in a unique way, but it does what it does so well that it didn't feel super repetitive.
I'm a solo game dev currently conceptualizing a full indie game I intend to make, and the idea is for it to be John Wick, the game (but without infringing on the IP of course). My aim is to make it into a dynamic stealth game that requires planning, positioning, and creativity to solve a level but with a faster paced execution, not unlike Ghost of Tsushima but with guns instead of swords. Your video definitely helps put into words a lot of the concepts I know in my head but can't put on paper, so thank you
I am a big sucker for immersive sim stealth games like the Thief series and Dishonoured. Sadly those games are quite few and far between as they are unprofitable. It is somewhat of a niche market and the nonlinearity and deep lore makes developing it harder. But still in my heart I thank all the previous games and pray for more of them.
Immersive Sim is my favorite genre. I hope more devs can continue to make them, because when they're done well, nothing can beat them in terms of fun and replayability.
While I would love it if I could say I was sure you people were aware of Weird West, I can't, because it wasn't exactly Elden Ring. In fact, it was an immersive sim with the gall to release in the same yearly quarter as Elden Ring!
I can't comment on its quality, as while I own it, I have yet to play it. But it's an immersive sim with an interesting setting with minds behind the likes of Dishonored involved in its creation.
@@Lextorias hey if you dont mind me asking blacklist also gave you a lot of options so l dont think its a bad stealth game
@@amcname8789 tysm for the recommendation, I'll check it out now
You should try Styx master of shadows feels like third person dishonerd
I remember watching that clip of Sam Fisher referencing Solid Snake on YT, the way he says, "it's only me" I find genuinely haunting, and sad.
Because I was a young man who just left school when MGS1 and splinter cell released a few years apart from each other...
and now that's all over, that era/genre is over :/
I played MGS1 in high school. I was sick and binged it over the course of a week. Probably one of my fondest gaming experiences. I've never fully played a Splinter Cell game and yet that Sam clip still gets me whenever I watch it. It's like I can hear the devs themselves saying it. The end of an era, and it just went out with a whimper.
"That genre is over" dude, there are plenty of indie stealth games, hell your a metal gear solid fan so here's one for you: covert critter.
What game is that clip even from? The used the wrong voice actor in Blacklist, and that clip doesn't look old enough to be from any of the other games.
@@ThisJustIn1516 from a mission in ghost recon
@@mr_indie_fan They probably mean the era of AAA stealth games. Absolutely nothing wrong with indies, but some people don’t jive with them.
I've never played Splinter Cell nor Metal Gear, but that video of the guy saying "So, it's only me" hits me each time.
You never played Metal Gear? It is a shame.
You never played splinter cell? Such a shame
@Nimbereth kept ya waiting huh ?
F*** you play metal gear
It’s from a DLC mission in Ghost Recon: Wildlands, which is a great game (but it’s the very most annoying mission in that whole game)
I'm amazed that you didn't mention the Batman Arkham games, especially Arkham Asylum where the relative small levels, enemy placements and tools at your disposal can give you a ton of creative options for stealth. I'm aware that AA is not strictly a stealth game, but the stealth is so engaging that you WANT to remain undetected.
but he did mention Asylum as a game with plenty of stealth elements
@Garland846 when I played batman punched everyone he possibly could no matter the odds.
@@wesleywyndam-pryce5305except for predator sections because he dies in a few shots
Not to mention, the stealth-parts in the Arkham games have a TON of depth. The enemies become increasingly-erratic, they adapt to your tactics, new elements are introduced that negate your X-ray vision or remove your vantage-points.
So glad I found your channel, you’re criminally underrated!!
Thank you!
Agree, third banger in a row now
Stealth channel
@@Lextorias What are your thoughts on the stealth mechanics of all 4 Batman Arkham Games?
@@etabiansosin they're pretty intentionally minimal, but effective. probably one of the clearest examples of the puzzle element of stealth
You nailed it by describing stealth games as a type of puzzle game. I didn't pick up on it myself until the recent Hitman trilogy. Sure, it has crouching and a detection meter, but that alone is rarely enough to succeed. And like puzzle games, a stealth game oftentimes has a brute force solution, but it isn't as satisfying, or it outright punishes you for not finding a solution. Games with "stealth mechanics" usually miss that and the worst that happens is you get forced into an action sequence that was just one of the other game mechanics.
Splinter Cell and MGS are far less puzzle games than Hitman. Hitman annoyed me because I tried to play it like a stealth game and you just can't. Key example for me is in MGS and SC you can turn all the hud elements off and still get through. Hitman has random enemies that spot you in whatever disguise you're currently wearing. I kept getting to a point of "Okay, how do the devs want me to do this, because I can't do it how I want." Or whatever challenges there were, where you had to learn their full routes and timing triggers to push someone onto someone else or something.
Hitman also frankly has pretty piss-poor combat because they don't want you doing that. Splinter Cell did that too for some of the earlier games and it sucked.
@@JZStudiosonline Part of why I love Thief 2 so much is because it has kind of a sandbox approach that allows you to handle problems in ways the devs may never even have thought of
@@JZStudiosonline I prefer to think of stealth games as a form of problem solving than puzzle games because you have more than 1 way of solving a problem, while puzzle games only have one answer to a problem.
@@iswitchedsidesforthiscat That's not inherently true, I just played a puzzle game and had some different solutions than what was shown in guides. But for later puzzles I think it only had 1 option and you had to figure out which of the 16 starting options was the correct one.
I'm still going to say Hitman is a puzzle game. You have to do events in a pre-defined order. They give some options that don't really matter, but tie progression to challenges that require brute force methods, and the AI walk in loops to facilitate the linear puzzle aspect. For example, in one mission you have to know the enemy AI pathing and timing to push one character on top of another character to kill both. Didn't like Hitman much.
Every game is essentially a puzzle game. And people tend to watch videos about how to beat a levels, so it comes off as easy.
My advice when playing games avoid watching other people play for as long as possible.
That way you sneak around not knowing which is the surest way to not get caugh.
A recommendation for a future video: the decline of HORROR GAMES. They're suffering the same problem as stealth games -- titles are now oversaturated with as many gameplay mechanics as possible that genres are blurring together, like you said, and a lot of niche games genres (like stealth and horror) are losing their identity. I haven't played a good horror game in a while so maybe I'm behind on the times but that was my first thought when you started this video. For example, Dead Space 2 is arguably one of the best horror games of all time and Dead Space 3 was just another un-scary action game trying to be everything to everyone.
And that's one of the main problems with games now...it's either 1.) everyone is trying to go the live service route and convince you that cosmetic upgrades and slight gameplay variations with each repetitive event is both innovative and interesting, or 2.) AAA game releases are now trying to encompass as many elements from as many genres as possible that at times games seem unfinished, unpolished, or outright broken (I love Elden Ring too, but it falls in this category).
Again, love your stuff and your humor. Thanks man!
Horror games is a good idea for a video. I think I'd want to take some different angle though. I had a bunch of ideas to talk about different genres, but the problem is very similar for most of them, being the one I describe at the end of this video. So with videos on other genres/games I'd want to do something different than just talking about them blending together like I did here.
The live-service and shady monetization is a good angle, possibly for series like Fallout as well as Dead Space 3. I'll definitely be writing that down. And a video on games like Cyberpunk and the rush to include so many things that it leaves the game unfinished is another good idea I got from your comment. I think for horror games I'd need to brainstorm something unique about them to talk about. Thanks for the suggestion!
Yeah. The best horror game I have played in five years is Omori. I really haven't been interested in horror for a while, largely due to most new "horror" games abandoning their roots.
There is hope dead space remake looks promising, Callisto protocol looks good and System Shock 1 remake is on the way.
Says a lot that the big names in the horror industry (Capcom and Konami) are remaking old titles
So glad you mentioned StealthGamerBR. Soon as this video started I was thinking about them. They’re the reason I started playing the Hitman games
Started watching for the metal gear praise, finished watching for the unsatiated stealth hunger
You're on your way from being a youtube boy to becoming a big youtube MAN.
Glad to have been here from the start.
As someone who grew up playing Stealth games as their favorite genre of game (Hitman Blood Money, Splinter Cell Chaos Theory and MGS 3 being some of my favorite games of all time), I appreciate the effort you put into this video
Oh God. Chaos Theory is one of my favorite games of all time.
Splinter Cell never got as in depth mechanically as Hitman or MGS, but Chaos Theory has stuck with me for so long. The dynamic lighting and noise systems is the combo I've needed and missed for so long in the genre.
All these other mechanics are nice, but those are the 2 that really make me feel immersed when I'm trying to be a ninja
I felt the same way whenever I try the "stealth" route in modern games but couldn't really describe why I found them so unsatisfying...this was a very useful video.
Alien Isolation is the most intense stealth game I've played for sure,easily my favourite too.
If I wasn’t a scared little baby I would love that game so much more
@@Lextorias isnt that the point haha
@@Pixelblut Well yeah, but some people would rather not bother
You have to try it Alien Isolation in VR. One of the best VR experiences I've had
@@Skrenja but only if your cool with having a heart attack tho
I know the Tenchu series was probably a little bit too far before your time but it is the best example of a good stealth game in my opinion. I tend to stay away from stealth games that have guns just because they usually end up just being a sniper simulation for me. Everything you said about Ghost of Tsushima, Tenchu pioneered.
Damn I loved tenchu. One of my first games was tenchu z
I disagree entirely with your thoughts on MGSV. There are missions that force a direct approach, but that's normal for final boss fights in MGS with large setpieces. This game is the culmination of Kojima's stealth game know how and development. The stealth missions are infinitely fun, and he even made it more accessible.
Man the videos you make are just so good in quality to be honest.
Kudos to the dedication!
Thank you! I appreciate it
A big problem I have with the evolution of the stealth genre is that it started out that you were the weak guy who needed to sneak around because you couldn't fight anyone directly. But as it evolved, now you're the super killer, and the reason why you do stealth is to murder as many people as you can without anyone noticing you're there.
Outlast vs. Far Cry
Bro the jump in quality is immaculate. Keep up the good work man!
This actually really inspired me. What if a new passionately dedicated stealth game comes out in the future? I'd be so happy
As long as people enjoy video games there’s going to be passionate devs making good ones. Someone who loves stealth could make something amazing with our current tech. I just hope they get the support and resources they need to make it, like Kojima got with MGS1.
Mgsv gives more options. Stealth is highly advice because action will get you destroyed. You could snipe a whole outpost without anyone even hearing you or you could run up to someone and knock them out. Or you can open fire with no suppressor and kill everyone. This isn’t different from any other metal gear game the controls are just easier so kill guards so guard are tougher and more plentiful.
First 2 Minutes were really captivating, very unique, nice.
Thanks! I put a lot of work in, so I’m glad you liked it :)
Well constructed, well paced and interesting content. Good video
Thanks!
Stealth games haven’t declined in popularity. Stealth game have ALWAYS been niche. And will always be niche. And devs/publisher don’t like that they lack the mass market appeal and high return that other genres bring.
Also you missed Tenchu and Thief, which also came out in 98.
This channel is going to blow up. Great presentation. Great scripting. Intelligent commentary... good job brotha... can't wait to take this ride with u.
Tenchu and Shinobido on PS2 had a lot of the satisfying stealth kills, including that wall and door kills.
I understand that you cannot talk about every single stealth game, but one of the bigger franchises that keeps the genre alive to me is the "Sniper Elite" series. To me they stand shoulder to shoulder with the new Hitman Trilogy
Recently tried out Metal Gear Solid V: Ground Zeroes just to dabble in Stealth games for a bit and god damn, the atmosphere, graphics and overall immersiveness were insane. Like, contextual stuff guards are talking about, different finishers when hiding and just overall feel. Really cool!
My issues is that they are more immersion breaking than most other genres: Like you become invisible in a shadow everyone should be able to see. Guards are basically blind and hearing disabled and have a memory of 30 seconds. But I can see though walls.
Suspension of disbelief. COD also has you be a one-man army and regenerate from a million bullets. Where are your complaints about that?
you are playing horrible "stealth games" like assassins creed thats why you feel that way
depends on the game
i've been binging your videos and holy shit you're script writing is amazing, it's been awhile since i've genuinely been so captivated by video game related video essays. please continue keeping up the amazing work
Green screen video essays are the superior format! Actually getting to see a youtubers personality through their mannerisms and body language makes the video watching experience much more personal! Keep the format!
Thank you! I like the format a lot, and I'm glad its enjoyable to watch.
Yeah I didn't realize how much potential it had until I saw NakeyJakeys videos, but now I think everybody should do it if they want to. It just makes the video grab your attention more like you're giving a ted talk or something lol.
He was my main inspiration lol
Hitman games are dominating now, also MGSV is the best Stealth game in terms of gameplay, I wish more games take inspiration from it
I have been playing hitman 3 constantly
To be honest, I never really saw Assassin's Creed as a stealth game. It seems more of an action game with stealth stapled on like Far Cry or Uncharted.
Wow great production and great voice this channel has potential
Binge-watching all your videos right now.
Love the humor!
Dude it’s like way early in the morning I’ve been up all night and your video just started auto playing and man I cannot believe how little likes you have gotten for such a well put together and edited video this was keep it up man you have got yourself a new subscriber
I'm glad Shadow Tactics got mentioned at least :D I love stealth as well and this is one of my favourite games of all time. Even tho I have every achievement and basically know every guards position and route in every level, I regularly replay the game. It's such a shame that the development studio who made it, Mimimi Studio, had to close down
Hey! You're doing great! Keep it up dude.
Yo, your vocal presentation is amazing. I’ve done theatre and your pronunciation is great.
Also, Splinter Cell Blacklist was actually a good game, man… I remember hating Conviction because it was more action focused while Blacklist went back to giving you gadgets and tools to be stealthy. It allowed action, like Dishonored, but had many tools for stealth gameplay, again, like Dishonored.
You should definitely check it out if it goes on sale. It was a gem that was overlooked because the one before it sucked.
also: stealth is hard. "shoot everything until it dies" is easy. Game journalists are notoriously bad at gaming. Making stealth the main focus, and complex, is likely to make the game journalist claim that the game is too hard, and reduce sales.
It's also more difficult to scale the difficulty of stealth gameplay versus action. Modifying action gameplay is simply a matter of altering damage outputs, while modifying stealth gameplay means adapting the game to accommodate better or worse strategies.
I realized the whole line between action and stealth games blurring while playing the splinter cell series. In the original Splinter Cell as well as Splinter Cell Chaos theory you can control your exact movement speed and how much noise your making. They also tell you how hidden you are in the shadows. Then with Splinter Cell Blacklist it’s just crouch to be sneaky and parkour. Yes it still felt like a stealth game but the precision of the original is gone.
It's a day when Lextorias uploads
This comment made my day
Bruh you present your vids like you’re spitting straight fire 🔥 keep it up 🤙
Yeah you're gonna blow up soon, glad I'm here early
1:06 Like you said, I don't think it was an option. When I check the game card on consoles it labels stealth games like: MGSV: TPP, SC: Blacklist as "Action & Adventure"(Unlike PC stores like steam). Some of those games bought in the action and adventure genres may have been stealth titles.
I'm unsure if this study was done on consoles only, pc only, or combined and I know stealth is less popular today but, c'mon.
Your videos are absolutely incredible man i really enjoyed this
I'm so glad to find this channel
I found your open world game video assay. Your scripts are so well constructed. You know these games so in depth (those that you know at least) and yet you look like you have a life!
I’m glad I look presentable, because I indeed have no life whatsoever.
@@Lextorias you sacrificed your life to games now I do the same in the form of lextorias marathons
10:29 : that metaphor was so nice, felt like poetry, your writing is really good in these videos
Great video! The message for the industry is really one I wish they‘d take to heart.
(Side note: I think you understated Thiefs influence though, when mentioning only metal gear solid as the main influence of splinter cell‘s, and Deus Ex‘s stealth, and putting it in the same category, influence and depth wise, with the original metal gears and castle wolfenstein, when at least in my opinion it fits not just chronologically, but also in the previous categories more into the group with Tenchu, and Metal Gear Solid…)
Thief set the standard for stealth games .
MGS is frequently mentioned as a stealth game, but its really just as hybrid as anything else on his list.
This was an awesome analysis. Thanks for taking the time to make this. Loved it! Looking forward to your future videos.
Really solid and thought-out video! For all that the stealth genre has done for gaming, it's an absolute shame to see it in its current state; especially now that the tech exists to really do it justice.
While it falls outside the scope of what you wanted to focus on, one of the best stealth games I've played in a long time was Mark of the Ninja from a few years back. It manages to bring much of the depth of a proper stealth game (managing noise levels, light level, enemy line of sight/cone of sight, learning patrols and hiding bodies) into a 2D side-scroller way better than I expected, and really makes you feel like a badass for pulling off clean no kill/no alert runs of levels. While most big studios seem content with lower-hanging fruit these days, there are definitely still some small ones looking to keep stealth alive.
I second MotN
Spot on explanation.
Gamers got casual and dont wanna think and play smart anymore, that's why new stealth sections are lazy as devs adopt to more casual approach.
I miss old games and MGS will still remain my fav stealth and game franshize ever.
This was a really good video man, very well paced, edited and you articulated your points really well.
great video! keep up the good work!
Best stealth games ive played in recent years has been hunting games. Getting close to an animal, undetected, and landing the perfect double lung or heart shot is quite satisfying.
Like?
Hunt: call of the wild or way of the hunter
Stealth as a genre is revolutionary. The fact that I could do a run-through of an MGS game without killing someone takes skill and is something to behold and cherish more compared to a market saturated with first-person shooters where you're aimlessly killing everything on screen.
As with every genre, when the triple a industry moves on to the next toy to play with, indie games pick up the slack.
I recommend covert critter to metal gear solid fans, its one of many awesome indie stealth games out there. (Specifically made for mgs fans)
how don't you have a million subs? ur channel is criminally underrated
Could have earlier games too, but when you mentioned Siren as adding stealth to horror, my brain went to Clock Tower for the Snes/Super Famicom.
The interactivity was very point n' click puzzle game, but the premise and main mechanic was a tiny yet invincible man with giant scissors chasing you around and popping up out of nowhere to get you, forcing you to hide, run away, and find ways to all around not die.
a little thing to add: all the mgs games were made from scratch instead of using the other games as bases. this is a big reason why mgsv was so expensive to make
Hitman 2: Silent Assassin is one of my favorite stealth games. It's buggy as all shit, but the satisfaction you get from beating a level on Silent Assassin, after carefully placing your saves (if you're playing on expert, the best difficulty), learning the ins-and outs of the level, getting used to the mechanics and learning the criteria for SA to finally, at the end, execute your plan and get the fuck outta dodge is unparalleled. Stealth is such an underrated genre of games.
I would agree with this but on CONTRACTS and BLOOD MONEY.
@@morkgin2459 Blood money is the most replayable (barring Hitman 3 with all previous maps included) and Contracts has the best rating system for Silent Assassin
@@kalinka3133 contracts improved the "crouch" and "disguise system
@@kalinka3133 Well Silent Assassin is also replayable but it is showing it's age.
Loved your open world video, and this one is no different. Keep it up, man. You got a good thing going.
That means a lot. Thank you!
Well written and performed. Glad I subbed
Kinda wish more love has been given to Hitman since it's one of the modern flag bearers of the genre but oh well
I never found stealth mechanics boring even once in my life. Also why would everyone end up being a stealth archer in Skyrim like the meme said if it was so bad? Imo it's more about the devs who find stealth mechanics a relic of the past, like they did with split screen
Very underrated video and channel btw. I feel like you're going to blow sometime next year, keep grindin.
Sly Cooper is my Stealth game of choice. 😎
Truly
5:30 Correction, game has practically 2 endings depending on chaos. It doesn't change levels beside the last one. Other changes are purely cosmetic not mechanic like Emily drawing different things, or seeing different posters on the street
The amount of guards, their routes, the amount of infected people, and most NPC dialogue all change in every level after the first few
20:10
Anybody else have a moment EXACTLY LIKE THIS, but they aimed too low, and hit AN INVISIBLE HIT BOX that slightly protruded from what the step looked like?
Really glad I found your videos and channel you're most definitely underrated and I'm sure you'll blow up looking forward to your next videos!
We came a long way with the AI smartness in stealth games, but the one big wish I have, is that the enemies stop recognizing your walking footsteps from the 20 other guys, that are patrolling nearby.
I just found your channel and I'm glad this video is the one that popped up! I really love stealth games so thank you for showing the decline in stealth games because maybe it will inspire some dev to make a good one!
Glad i subscribed, love stealth games
It's only a matter of time the Algorithm notices your stuff
Your essays hit a nice sweet spot of not too long, not too short
I loved your take on Elden Ring
Thank you so much!
@@Lextorias Thank yourself for your effort :)
" when that came out, I was 1."
Oh dang, I feel old. That does make me realize something I took for granted though. Growing up alongside the medium of video games has given me much more knowledge and understanding of it than I realized. Makes me wonder what kind of experience my son will have with games.
Well MGS 1 came out in 1998 and Thief came out in 1998, so I choose to believe that Thief is the game that everyone copied now and for all times. What now Mr UA-cammanofficer?
No seriously game industry, Thief affected lots of people and we would really like some full ghost, high realism thief games pls. Like as a treat?
I hate how there hasn't been a Splinter Cell game in 10 years. I'd love even just a remastered collection.
Bro your punchlines got me in stitches haha. On top of that I'm also gaining knowledge on gaming history. All in all great formula!
10/10 most compelling subscription pitch
if you wanna play a good Splinter Cell, the third one(Chaos Theory) is usually considered the best; they are also working on a remake of the first one, so you can also play that when it comes out.
This, it's one of the best. But I think he should still play the 1st one.
Great video! You should check out Styx. Highly underrated stealth game where you play as a goblin infiltrating a castle. Game is pure stealth and nothing else!
I’ve played a bit of Styx. I didn’t fall in love with the game, but I also respect the hell out of it for the pure stealth aspects.
Styx looks interesting, thanks for bringing it to my attention!
My man Lextorias is dripped out in that Camo sweatsuit.
Found your channel from the open world video in my recommended. Subscribed. Rung the bells. Watching all your videos. Keep up the great work.
The two things I took from this video is that allowing you to be sadistic is the main criteria for a good stealth game and the feeling of being old.(like seriously dishonored is 10 years old?)
Honestly stealth games are my favorite type of games, I really hope they make a come back in some way. Especially Metal Gear and Splinter Cell.
Dude, this guy has NEVER played a Splinter cell game and spent hours making a video on stealth games. That ain't right
I love games that have stealth options. Games like ghost recon future soldier and wildlands were both games where I loved the ability to take out one or two guys at a time.
After Kojima's announcement he's coming back to direct a stealth game, I hope there's still hope for the genre. I'm hyped over what he could bring as something new to the table.
If there's one thing Splinter Cell always did well and innovated on from its inception, it was the lighting. By God the shadows in the classic Splinter Cell games are some of the best ever made. You literally disappear in them if they're dark enough, can't even make out a silhouette.
Hey great video! Nice voice and i really liked the format with you in the screen!!
The fact that u mentioned Tenchu made me soo happie
I hope one day Splinter cell get the love it deserves.Choas theory is the best stealth game i have ever played.
Same, Chaos Theory is up there for one of the best. Such a shame to make a video on stealth games and not knowing what Splinter Cell games are like.
What a great video. Finally some true love for the stealth genre. You have earned a sub. I look forward to watching the rest of your videos and your upcoming ones as well.
If you’re into stealth games PLEASE play the splinter cell series. Specifically 1-chaos theory
Great video.
You mentioned you haven't had much exposure to the Splinter Cell series -- I recommend you give Splinter Cell Chaos Theory a shot, as it's held by fans as one of the best in the series (biased opinion, as it's my favorite in the series, and one of my favorite games ever).
Bro you deserve so many more views, just gained a new sub!
I will always choose a stealth option in a game if it’s there. Tomb Raider and Ghost of Tsushima were especially satisfying
damn these videos are so good, UA-cam waited too long to put you in my recommendations lol
I gotta say, I usually kinda hate stealth games and stealth sections in games, but Tsushima actually did the stealth stuff pretty well, and most of the time stealth wasn't forced. You could still charge in head first, but you were gonna probably regret doing so. At the same time, you could flail around or brute force your way thru it. And I really liked that.
It doesn't do a whole lot of things in a unique way, but it does what it does so well that it didn't feel super repetitive.
I played the original Thief recently, a game that was made in 1998, and can't believe that it's better than the majority of the new stealth games.
I'm a solo game dev currently conceptualizing a full indie game I intend to make, and the idea is for it to be John Wick, the game (but without infringing on the IP of course).
My aim is to make it into a dynamic stealth game that requires planning, positioning, and creativity to solve a level but with a faster paced execution, not unlike Ghost of Tsushima but with guns instead of swords.
Your video definitely helps put into words a lot of the concepts I know in my head but can't put on paper, so thank you