Thief: The Dark Project
Release Date: December 2, 1998
Action, FPP, fantasy, steampunk, stealth, immersive sim, singleplayer
Steam
A first person action game with stealth features, set in a Medieval world, developed by the experienced Looking Glass Technologies studio, known from such games as System Shock and Flight Unlimited. In Thief: The Dark Project we take the role of Garret, a young adept of the art of thievery, who leaves the ranks of a secret brotherhood to start working on his own.
The first part of – as we can now say – a classic stealth action, or, as some prefer to say, “first person sneaker” game series. The game takes us to a Medieval-like world, where the player takes the role of a young thief, Garret, who leaves the ranks of Keepers, a secret brotherhood guarding the balance between magic and technology, and begins to work on his own. For us awaits 12 missions, during which we will explore various locations, including huge aristocratic mansions, mines, cathedrals etc. Naturally, on our path we will meet ordinary people, guards and professional assassins as well as blood-thirsty monsters like zombies.
A unique idea – that is, for an action game – is the concept that attacking your enemies directly will most likely end with our loss. We complete mission’s objective not by fighting face to face, but rather by avoiding direct confrontations and setting traps. If we must kill somebody, it’s best to sneak in behind them and eliminate with a backstab or snipe them from afar using the bow. Thief uses a spectacular, fully three dimensional graphic engine, the Dark Engine, offering detailed weather effects, good-looking character models, buildings, backgrounds etc. It is perfectly complemented by splendid audio, which e.g. makes it easier to realize the direction from which the danger is coming. It should also be noted that the game features a highly engaging and unpredictable plot, filled with interesting, unique puzzles and atmosphere rarely seen in modern games.
Last updated on December 30, 2015
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Videos and Screens
The main pros of the game
- Atmosphere and Story: The game is praised for its dark, immersive atmosphere, interesting story, and engaging voice acting. Many users find the narrative compelling and well-integrated with gameplay.
- Gameplay Mechanics: Players appreciate the stealth mechanics and the variety of tools available, such as different types of arrows (e.g., water arrows, moss arrows) that enhance gameplay strategy.
- Level Design: The game features large, sprawling maps with diverse environments that encourage exploration and strategic planning.
- Audio Design: Users highlight the impressive sound design, which plays a crucial role in gameplay by helping players detect enemies and navigate stealthily.
- Timelessness: Despite its age, many players feel that the game still holds up well against modern stealth games, often noting that it has inspired many elements in contemporary titles.
The main cons of the game
- Graphics: The graphics are considered outdated by modern standards, which can deter some players. However, some users suggest that modding can enhance the visual experience.
- Map Design Issues: Some maps are described as bland or confusing, making it difficult for players to navigate and distinguish between locations.
- Difficulty and Frustration: Certain levels, particularly those involving undead enemies, are noted to be frustrating and can lead to challenging combat situations, which some players find less enjoyable.
- Learning Curve: The game requires patience and can be challenging for those unfamiliar with stealth mechanics or older game design.
The features or elements that are missing from the game according to users
- Modern Quality of Life Features: Users mention the lack of modern conveniences, such as clearer map indicators or more intuitive tutorials, which could enhance the user experience.
- Translation and Accessibility: Some players express disappointment over the absence of localization options, such as subtitles or translations for in-game dialogue and documents, making it difficult for non-English speakers.
- Cutscene and File Management Issues: Players note that some cutscenes require tweaking to work properly, and there are challenges related to file management for optimal gameplay.
Summary
- Overall, while Thief? Gold has its drawbacks, particularly in terms of graphics and certain gameplay mechanics, it remains a highly regarded title in the stealth genre, celebrated for its innovative design and atmospheric storytelling.
Summary generated on:
GAMERS Score
Average score from 3537 votes.
5
GAMES
in Thief Game Series
Game Series
Thief Series
A highly acclaimed series of first-person perspective (FPP) action games in which the player has the opportunity to take on the role of a thief. The series was created by the now-defunct Looking Glass studio, and its development is currently overseen by the Eidos Montreal development team.
5 video games
Thief: The Dark Project Summary
Platforms:
PC / Windows
Developer: Looking Glass Studios
Publisher: Square Enix
Age restrictions: 16+
Thief: The Dark Project System Requirements
PC / Windows
Recommended: Pentium II 233MHz, 32MB RAM, graphic card
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