Thick as Thieves: A Stealthy Adventure with a Twist
In a world where magic and technology collide, Thick as Thieves takes us on a thrilling journey through the fictional Scottish city of Kilcairn. This stealth-focused game, set in the 1910s, offers a unique twist on the traditional heist genre, and I'm here to delve into its charms and challenges.
The Allure of Kilcairn
Thick as Thieves introduces us to a captivating city, where the boundaries between magic and technology are blurred. The game's art style is a delight, creating an atmosphere that feels both familiar and fantastical. As we break into the Thieves' Guild, our mission is clear: acquire the Vistara Diamond, a gem that holds more secrets than meets the eye.
The diamond is not just a shiny trinket; it's a powerful tool that reveals hidden traps, guards, and even magical doors leading to greater treasures. Unraveling the diamond's mysteries becomes a journey through Kilcairn's history, uncovering the story of a prominent family and their connection to the city's magical underbelly.
A Tale of Stealth and Strategy
Thick as Thieves' gameplay revolves around the classic 'get in, get out' heist formula, but with a twist. Our thieves, equipped with unique abilities and tools, must navigate intricate levels, avoiding traps and outsmarting guards. The game encourages strategic thinking and quick decision-making, rewarding players for both stealth and calculated risks.
One of the standout features is the co-op play, allowing players to team up and tackle missions together. The coordination and collaboration required add a whole new layer of excitement, as players split up, cover each other's backs, and pull off daring escapes.
The Hauntstables: A Haunting Challenge
Enter the Hauntstables, a unique breed of guards cursed to be cops for eternity. These spectral guardians pose a significant challenge, as they can pass through walls and floors, and cannot be knocked out. Their presence adds a layer of tension and strategy, forcing players to adapt their tactics and think on their feet.
The Hauntstables' behavior and interactions with the environment create some hilarious moments, especially when they get stuck in infinite loops. However, their relentless pursuit and ability to deal damage at close range make them a formidable foe, sending players back to the drawing board time and again.
Level Design: A Masterclass
The game's two levels, Constable Guildhall and Elway Manor, are true masterpieces of level design. Multi-story behemoths, they offer a plethora of hidden paths and routes, encouraging exploration and strategic planning. The levels change dynamically, with paths opening and closing, keeping players on their toes and ensuring each playthrough feels fresh.
A Compelling Story, Told Differently
Thick as Thieves boasts a surprisingly compelling story, told primarily through text-based communiques and scattered notes. While the narrative is not front and center, it adds depth and context to the missions and objectives. The game's story, which unfolds over the course of around 12 hours, ties together the heists and the city's history, creating a satisfying and immersive experience.
Final Thoughts
Thick as Thieves is a stealth game with a unique twist, offering a captivating blend of strategy, co-op play, and a compelling story. While the game's scope could have been expanded, the levels, characters, and overall atmosphere more than make up for it. It's a game that encourages multiple playthroughs, as players uncover new paths, strategies, and secrets.
So, if you're looking for a stealthy adventure with a magical twist, Thick as Thieves is definitely worth your time. Just watch out for those Hauntstables!
