Open-World Games Where Stealth Is More Fun Than Combat

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Summary

  • Open-world games now require action-packed gameplay to engage fans effectively.
  • Most open-world games offer combat and stealth mechanics for player enjoyment.
  • Stealth gameplay shines in titles like Watch Dogs 2, Assassin’s Creed Syndicate, and Metal Gear Solid 5.

Over the last ten years, open-world gaming has made significant strides. Merely wandering around an open environment no longer captivates most gamers; they now seek exciting gameplay elements that engage and entertain them. Today’s players anticipate action-packed experiences in their games to stay engaged.

As a gaming enthusiast, I find myself drawn to open-world games that seamlessly blend straight-up combat with covert stealth tactics, creating a rich and engaging gameplay experience. Sometimes, sneaking up on foes and taking them out quietly feels so thrilling that it becomes my preferred approach rather than engaging in direct confrontation. If you’re one of those players who appreciates the art of stealth, then these games are tailor-made for us stealthy gamers!

5. Watch Dogs 2

Players Have Many Options When It Comes To Stealth

In the sequel, Watch Dogs 2, many criticisms leveled at the original game were effectively addressed. Most of these concerns were valid: Aiden’s narrative was overly somber, the hacking elements were underdeveloped, and an emphasis on intense combat clashed with the concept of a stealthy hacker who could incapacitate opponents invisibly.

In Watch Dogs 2, enthusiasts can find an experience that leans towards a lighter mood. The follow-up offers non-violent alternatives, strengthens the impact of hacking abilities for stealth, and encourages players to operate covertly more effectively. This is appealing because combat isn’t particularly engaging, as it primarily involves conventional third-person shooting mechanics.

4. Assassin’s Creed Syndicate

Combat Is Somewhat Floaty, But Stealth Is Satisfying

It’s unfortunate that Assassin’s Creed Syndicate saw a decline in sales, as it seems to have signaled a change for the franchise. Many fans of the series would likely concur that the captivating backdrop of Victorian London is hard to resist. The twin leads, Jacob and Evie Frye, are both enjoyable characters to play, although there’s a preference for controlling Evie over her impulsive brother due to her proficiency in covert missions. Leaving aside problematic gender norms, there are numerous reasons why Evie Frye is more engaging to control than her headstrong sibling.

Although fighting can be enjoyable on its own, it seems to fall short compared to the Arkham games and lacks the fluid animations that made playing Rocksteady’s games so delightful. Prolonged engagement with the combat loop can even feel a bit clunky. However, once players unlock Evie’s ultimate skill, allowing her to remain undetectable even when enemies are looking directly at her, many find this stealth approach more enjoyable than one might expect.

3. Deus Ex: Mankind Divided

Direct Combat Is Possible, But Stealth Is Where The Game Shines

In the game “Mankind Divided,” the city of Prague serving as an open-world hub sets it apart. Unfortunately, some ill-advised business decisions tarnished the game’s reputation at launch, with criticisms directed towards its hasty release, microtransactions, and an incomplete ending. However, if players are willing to overlook these flaws, they will find a well-crafted gameplay experience that showcases Adam Jensen’s abilities effectively, whether he’s operating stealthily or engaging in combat.

In these Deus Ex games, while it’s thrilling to perform cover shooting and close-range takedowns, any devoted fan would argue that the true brilliance lies in stealthy play. Mankind Divided is no exception, offering players the opportunity to carry out silent, powerful takedowns from hidden vantage points, manipulate machines for assistance rather than confrontation, and employ quiet weapons to swiftly eliminate foes. Stealth, in essence, proves to be an exhilarating aspect of Mankind Divided gameplay.

2. The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim

There’s A Reason Players Gravitate Towards A Stealth Archer Build

In Skyrim, players are captivated by numerous aspects, but the promotion of player freedom is a significant factor that made this game a hit among players. Players can choose to be warriors, mages, thieves, or even mix the strongest traits from different classes to achieve unprecedented power. This game also boosted the stealth system significantly compared to previous Elder Scrolls games. Players enjoy sneaking up on enemies and taking them out from the shadows to benefit from the Sneak Damage bonus, which has the potential to instantly defeat opponents.

Over time, this tactic causes players to become covert bowmen who opt for sneaking when foes are spotted nearby. This style of gameplay in Skyrim has grown so common that it’s a subject of humor and requires deliberate effort to avoid slipping back into the same build which many players found themselves drawn to during their initial playthroughs. While employing magic or charging aggressively with heavy melee weapons can be exhilarating on its own, stealth archery is so effective that players may overlook enemies succumbing one by one as they struggle to locate their elusive attacker.

1. Metal Gear Solid 5: The Phantom Pain

Stealth Is The Bread-and-Butter Of This Open-World Experience

The game “Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain” is often hailed as one of the greatest video games ever created, unfortunately, its creator Kojima left the company prior to wrapping up the storyline. Despite this setback, enthusiasts who are particularly interested in the gameplay aspect will find much to enjoy. “The Phantom Pain” boasts an enhanced stealth mechanics that provides players with a multitude of tactics for navigating enemy bases undetected.

As a gamer, I can say that mastering the art of stealth in Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain is what truly sets it apart. Using trickery by setting up decoys and blending into the environment using Snake’s famous cardboard box, I love taking out enemies without giving away my position. While there are instances where combat becomes inevitable, these situations don’t occur frequently and never diminish the exhilarating stealth experience that makes each mission engaging and thrilling.

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2025-08-23 06:06