Exploring the Intricacies of Thick as Thieves
My initial hours spent in Thick as Thieves unfolded like a delightful escapade. This first-person stealth game captivates with its minimalist controls and maps that evoke the charm of hand-drawn illustrations, reminiscent of a street vendor named “Fingers” peddling his wares from the depths of his overcoat. The game’s unique setting intertwines elements of technology and magic, brought to life by guards with Scottish accents who ponder the nature of light—be it electric or fey.
As I navigated the labyrinthine corridors of Elway Manor’s basement, I encountered an area intriguingly marked with a question mark, hinting at mysteries yet to be uncovered. Clambering onto rooftops and slipping through vents, I was struck by the attention to detail; guards reacted perceptively when I extinguished candles or left doors ajar. The experience evoked nostalgia for classic stealth games while introducing innovative concepts, such as ghostly sentinels that glide through walls and ascend into the ether, keeping players on their toes regarding safety. Notably, these ethereal guards still emit coughs, a reminder of their living counterparts lurking nearby.
Originally designed as a PvPvE experience, the game has transitioned to a single-player and co-op format. This shift may explain the current state of the game, which presents itself as an immersive simulation yet lacks features like key rebinding and offers only two maps. Otherside has dubbed this release the first chapter, though it feels more akin to an early access title, a sentiment that resonates with many players.
Despite its limitations, the game comes with an appealing price tag of just . If the timer paused until every aspect of my contract was fulfilled, I might still be engrossed in its world. At this price point, I would even consider purchasing a copy for a friend to join me in a co-op adventure, although I must admit, in its current form, they might not express their gratitude.
