Aragami

2016 has been so far a very good year for stealth titles, with games such as Hitman and Human Ex: Mankind Divided hitting PC and consoles to moderate success. However, most, if not all, of the stealth games released this year sport a realistic or futuristic setting, leaving those longing for a game set in ancient times no choice but to replay some classics of the past, such as the Tenchu games. Thankfully, the drought is over and Lince Works came to the rescue with Aragami, a stealth game that manages to set itself apart from other 2016 similar titles not only for its Feudal Japan inspired set...

With its elegant design, solid gameplay and a narrative that keeps you engaged, Aragami is a wonderful return – and tribute – to the old formula of classic stealth. There are some niggles here and there that can be rather irritating, but it’s not enough to put a black mark on this otherwise great game. Since we are so used to bigger, AAA titles these days, you may need a brief period to readjust. I wasn’t sure myself at first, but when I put the hours in, it made me realise why games like this are sorely missed today. Aragami is a title that deserves a bigger budget, and maybe sometime in the ...

Who better to combat an army of soldiers who possess the power of light than a warrior of the shadows? Summoned by an imprisoned woman named Yamiko, it is up to you to defy the army's aggression as you make your way to her. A game built on stealth-action, and the freedom to choose your path of either killing or progressing unseen, you'll find a reason to make it to the end no matter the cost.

It takes a while to get going and it has its fair share of annoying quirks, but as it progresses Aragami becomes a solid stealth game with a compelling story. The addition of extra DLC chapters gives the game a welcome boost in longevity, and though its temperamental mechanics prevent it becoming an unarguable gem, its stylish look and the range of abilities you acquire by the end mean fans of stealth games (and fans of stealth only) will still have a fun time with it. Eventually.

Aragami is a sight for sore eyes if you're a fan of the stealth genre. While we have incredible games integrating its conventions with Dishonored, Assassin's Creed, and even Wolfenstein: The New Order, they treat stealth gameplay as an equal alternative to action rather than the only realistic option. Seasoned game series like Metal Gear Solid and Thief are primary examples of the latter, emphasising stealth to the point of making combat a major threat. Aragami falls in line with this traditional focus on stealth gameplay, but is it worth leaving in the shadows or exposing to the light for all...

Although the occasional technical issue and odd mechanic put a damper on things, Aragami has its heart in the right place. Its strict adherence to stealth with no ifs, ands, or buts will turn some people off, but it’ll speak to a lot of old-school fans who are sick of experiences that allow you to blast your way out of everything.

Aragami has an interesting style and has truly captured the essence of the stealth genre. However, it has too many elements that hold it back from being a great game.

Games like Dishonored and Assassin’s Creed have really boosted the stealth genre of video games, the methodical style lends itself well to those who want a game that is not simply about killing but working your way around a situation. Due to this stealth games have become a favorite for the thinking man to play, and Aragami is one of the latest to embrace this method of hiding in the shadows and planning your next move, but at the same time feeling a little too dull to ever truly shine.