Stealth is really an underused genre in gaming, but unfortunately, when it is done, it usually fails to such a degree that it ruins the game. Fortunately, in the last couple years, the stealth genre has redeemed itself with the likes of Dishonored and Hitman: Absolution. Back in the day, the Thief series defined the stealth genre with the release of Thief: The Dark Project in 1998. This year’s reboot of the series, simply named Thief, lives up to that hype.

Thief’s stealth elements are beautifully done and are actually one of the best parts of the game. Graphics are top notch, but are noticeably glitchy during some cutscenes. Resetting the console might help this problem, but no promises.

In Thief, the player steps into the shoes of Garrett, a professional Thief. After about the first 45 minutes of gameplay, (no spoilers here), the plot seems to lack substance, but the game never feels boring even in this flaw. The environments are really enjoyable to explore, but unfortunately the levels are awfully small compared to the Thief games before this. The game lost a huge opportunity with the small levels, and the game could’ve drawn more gamers in if the levels were vast and more than just a few lootable houses and loading screens.

The combat is a great addition to the stealth elements, and players will find that using Garrett’s special bow and arrow, called “Blackjack”, to maneuver through levels especially enjoyable. Players can use specialty arrows to put out open flames, hit switches to turn off lights, and, of course, knock out guards.

Sure, it isn’t game of the year, and it might fall under the radar in a few weeks when the likes of Titanfall and Dark Souls 2 come out, but it’s worth picking up a copy if you can look past the glitchy cutscenes.

Platform Played On: PS4

Available on: PS3, PS4, Xbox One, Xbox 360, PC