When Mentioning Stealth Games, the Importance of Sound is Often Underrated by Players
Most games in the stealth genre focus on the player’s visual awareness or the use of light and shadow to remain hidden, but stealth games must cleverly utilize sound as well. However, controlling sound is equally important if players want to navigate through various challenges.
Some Stealth Games Also Emphasize Sound as a Strategy, Especially When Players Need to Be in a Specific Position. Here are a Few Titles That Highlight the Importance of Sound in Stealth Gameplay:
Thief
In Thief, players can choose a more cautious and stealthy approach to successfully steal items within the city. Patience is key, and the game provides a sound meter that allows players to track their noise levels to avoid detection. However, it doesn’t offer direct alerts for specific noise levels.
This aspect forces players to be attentive to their surroundings and move stealthily, especially when the main character, Garrett, is suspected of being present.
The Last of Us
A critically acclaimed title known for its narrative-driven gameplay, The Last of Us utilizes sound design effectively.
Throughout the survival journey of Joel and Ellie, making noise can attract dangerous infected creatures, such as Clickers—these foes are especially sensitive to sound. Joel’s listening ability allows players to determine the positions of enemies behind walls, providing a tactical advantage. Additionally, the atmospheric sound effects and detailed audio design enhance the feeling of immersion in this post-apocalyptic world.
Hitman: World of Assassination
The World of Assassination package grants players access to all three parts of the Hitman series, featuring over 20 locations and numerous assassination methods.
Sound in the game not only helps Agent 47 eavesdrop to gather information, but it is also used strategically—particularly when throwing objects to distract enemies. Conversely, actions that create noise, such as bumping into objects or firing weapons, can lead to detection, so players must be cautious when navigating through environments.
