The basics of operating in shadows | Hints Thief Guide

Sliding is a good way to avoid the well lit areas without the necessity to use the equipment elements.

In Thief, just like in any other stealth game, the key to succeeding is to stay in shadows and avoid detection on a constant basis, thanks to which you avoid drawing attention of the opponents or (in the extreme situations) failing the current mission automatically. About the fact that you are staying in a dark area, you can learn by looking at the Light Gem that you can see on the screen. However, you need to keep in mind that not all of the locations are 100% safe and a given location can suddenly fill with light, after someone turns on the lights or when an opponent with a torch strolls by.

What you can use to avoid lit areas is swoop, whose use you will learn still in the prologue. I recommend that you take advantage of this action, especially that the main protagonist performs in, nearly, listlessly. Apart from that, you can also try putting out the torches, with water arrows, or by using lighting switches, although, it is worth noting that the opponents may react to this kind of changes in the environment (more about this at the next page).

Finally, it is worth mentioning that many of the locations offer multiple ways to the destination. That is why it is a good thing to start by taking an advantage point located at heights, so as to enable yourself to plan your route. I recommend that you especially search for catwalks high above the ground and rooftops. Later into the campaign, you can also use venting shafts to your advantage, thanks to which it is easier to avoid rooms guarded by the enemy units.

To the extent it is possible, avoid walking over, e.g. broken glass

You need to attach care not only to being invisible, but also to being inaudible. A quite obvious thing is that you should not be running, or walking fast, in a situation in which there are hostile characters around. This is not the only thing that you need to remember about, because also the surfaces over which you move, influence how much noise you make. I especially recommend that you watch out while walking on water, broken glass or metal catwalks. In such situations, you need to remember to crouch, at the same time and sneak, which will suppress the sounds made by your footsteps.