Curve studios latest game, Stealth Inc formally known as Stealth Bastard (apt name) on PC is the perfect amalgamation of stealth and platforming, and coupled with gorgeous graphics, a stellar soundtrack and a cheap price tag, Stealth Inc is a must have for gamers looking for a challenge.
The storyline in this game is virtually non-existent. You play as a clone in a stealth suit with a nifty pair of spy goggles and your task is to access the various computer terminals and switches placed across each level to open the exit door to the next level. Of course it isn’t as easy as it sounds because strewn across each level is an assortment of traps, robots and lasers that are simply there to hinder your progress. Each of the 80 levels in the game are varied and contain different traps and enemies for you to try and outwit. Throughout the game, I never felt like I was playing the same level over and over again and the incredible soundtrack helps to create the atmosphere of tension and danger. The platforming is tight and the balance between stealth and puzzle solving is perfect.
As you progress throughout the game, different gameplay mechanics are introduced to the player. Mechanics such as teleportation points and moveable platforms help to keep the player interest all the time. The game is tough and there are times when the player will feel like giving up but thankfully the developers gave the players some leeway when it comes to checkpoints. The game also allows the player to skip a level 3 times in each of the eight stages. Although, I never needed to skip a level having the option to do so is welcoming.
The 8th level of each stage contains a boss battle but these are not the conventional boss battle we are used to playing. Instead of an enemy that the player has to kill, in Stealth Inc the boss is a level size robot that has a 3600 arc sensor that is able to sense the movement of the player at all times. In these levels, the player has to use the environment to their advantage and manipulate it in such a way so the robot does not detect you and kill you. These levels are tough as nails but when the player figures out how to outwit the boss, the level of satisfaction when you enter the exit door is unmatched since the likes of Dark Souls and Hotline Miami.
The game is huge and boasts an online leaderboard for each level, unlockable clones and a level editor. A patch is being created for the game that will allow players to share their custom level online for other players to enjoy. The game is cross-buy so for €9.99 you get the ps3 and the PS Vita version. Cross-save is also included thankfully so you can game on the go and then continue on the PS3.
Stealth Inc is an amazing, original game and a great addition to the PS Vita and PS3 library. Although the game is perfect on the PS3, I much preferred playing it on the PS Vita. It is the perfect fit for the handheld, it looks beautiful on the OLED scene and the levels are only 1-2 minutes long at most so it is the ideal travel companion. Stealth Inc is tough as nails but deeply rewarding and for €9.99 for 80 levels, cross-buy and a level editor every gamer should give this game a go.
80/100