Thief - Deadly Shadows: An Enjoyable Medieval Stealth Adventure

While I won't spoil the game for you, I will mention that the writing in this game is very nicely done. For those who have played the previous Thief games, you'll recognize the main character Garrett - the character you play - as well as others. But even if you haven't played any Thief games in the past, its still easy to get the gist of whats going on. There is some depth to the storyline and there are some moments where you get a good idea what type of person Garrett really is. While the basic premise is that you play as a thief, there are larger things going on and you easily get caught up in all of this. Its accurate to say that the storyline is exemplary, something that current games could definitely use as a prime example of excellence in writing.

The controls for the game are usual for a FPS. Yes this is technically a FPS-type game, but thats like saying a Corvette is just a car. The environment for one thing is much more open than your usual FPS, so you can actually sneak around in the various city sections, interacting with the populace through pickpocketing or assassination. While there are missions or quests you work on, there's no particular way that you have to use to get there for the most part. The equipment you utilize is revolutionary and interesting. You carry a medieval arsenal, from the blackjack - used for knocking out foes - to the various types of arrows, such as water arrows to put out torches or moss arrows that cover the ground with moss to help you creep silently by. The AI is well done, such as when the guards become alarmed when a body is found or they see something in the shadows. Darkness is your friend, and the light indicator helps you stay in the shadows. There are too many good things to be listed with regards to this title, but its enough to say that gameplay is well done.

For a game that is almost five years old, this game still holds its own in the graphics department. The entire game has a very dark feeling to it, which really helps wrap you up in the stealthy imagery. Light plays a very important role, particularly since you are trying to not ever be seen. While the game isn't as good as some of the best out right now (Crysis for example), its still well done. The visuals pull you in and the tone is definitely in line with the rest of the game. The music and sounds of the game are also immersive, perfectly in tune with everything else the game provides.