The stealth and espionage genre in gaming is usually a much more thoughtful experience than run-and-gun action games. They are designed to challenge a gamer in different ways than explosive and fast-paced action shooters like Call of Duty and even Doom.

Of course, having a game using themes based around espionage is more than just implementing good stealth mechanics. It has much to do with the story, presentation, and setting. In addition, great spy stories are not limited to spy fiction set during the Cold War but can extend to different periods and genres.

Updated February 24, 2024, by Michael Llewellyn: Games that focus stealth over action, or take the espionage route with their stories, appeal to fans of spy fiction like James Bond, Jason Bourne, and even Mission Impossible. These games play into the fantasy of going undercover and unveiling conspiracies or becoming a top-secret assassin working for a government or an organization. Thankfully, there are several titles if they want to play games geared toward stealth, espionage, and assassinations. This list has been updated to include more games for fans to play.

Related
7 PS2 Stealth Games Almost No One Remembers
For better or for worse, these PlayStation 2 stealth games have faded away and have been mostly forgotten by the masses.

25 The Occupation

Investigate Conspirace in an Immersive World

The Occupation - setting the timer
  • Released: 2019
  • Developer: White Paper Games
  • Platform: PC, PS4, and Xbox One

The Occupation is an immersive sim set in 1987 Britain. In response to a terrorist attack, the government has imposed strict deportation rules on immigrants, threatening their freedom and liberty. The player takes on the role of an investigative journalist named Harvey, who must conduct interviews and collect evidence using stealth in real-time.

Harvey will piece together evidence obtained using stealth and deception to avoid security guards and uncover a conspiracy relating to the new proposed laws and the terrorist attack. The voice acting is excellent, and the world reacts according to Harvey's actions. There's no action, but The Occupation offers depth for fans of espionage and conspiracies.

24 Alekhine's Gun

An Old School Hitman Clone That's Fun Despite Its Flaws

Alekhine's Gun - using stealth to avoid enemies
  • Released: 2016
  • Developer: Maximum Games
  • Platform: PC, PS4, Xbox One

With relatively poor reviews, some gamers might wonder why Alekhine's Gun is on this list. And the game is indeed unpolished, clunky, and awkward to control. However, as a low-budget game that plays similarly to the two-decades-old Hitman 2: Silent Assassin, it is worth a play for fans of Cold War-era espionage and drama.

Like Hitman, players must complete objectives without arousing suspicion from enemies, guards, and police. Despite looking and feeling like a twenty-year-old game, there are several moments where Alekhine's Gun makes players feel like a superspy. For all its faults, espionage fans will look past the flaws and enjoy the globe-trotting adventure.

23 Robert Ludlum's The Bourne Conspiracy

A Surprisingly Good Adaptation Of The Bourne Books And Movies

Bourne Conspiracy - Jason Bourne in combat
  • Released: 2008
  • Developer: High Moon Studios
  • Platform: PS3, Xbox 360

Launched in 2008 and developed by High Moon Studios, The Bourne Conspiracy was already in good hands with a team that knows how to create good licensed titles. After The Bourne Conspiracy, the studio developed the Deadpool game and two of the best Transformers games ever, Transformers: War for Cybertron and Fall of Cybertron.

The Bourne Conspiracy closely follows the plot of The Bourne Identity movie instead of the books but does not feature the likeness of its star, Matt Damon. It lacks the polish of a Splinter Cell game, but the use of stealth and combat closely resembles the movies and their fight scenes. Linearity is an issue for The Bourne Conspiracy, but considering it can be picked up for a reasonable price, it is worth stepping in the shoes of Bourne for a while.

22 Disjunction

An Old-School Cyberpunk Stealth Game

Disjunction Key Art
Disjunction

Platform(s)
PC
Released
January 28, 2021
Developer(s)
Ape Tribe Games

Released in 2021, Disjunction is a stealth game set in a cyberpunk vision of New York under the control of an authoritarian government. It was developed by a small indie studio called Ape Tribe Games. Disjunction is an old-school action RPG with some pretty low-tech visuals by modern standards, but those willing to look past this will find one of the deepest stealth games in a long time.

On a visual level, Disjunction is reminiscent of the classic Metal Gear Solid games on the SNES. The RPG mechanics, however, set it apart from the MGS series. Players can upgrade the skills and development of the characters they control. Furthermore, the dialogue choices available significantly impact how the story develops.

21 Republique Remastered

A Unique Take On The Stealth Genre

Republique - using stealth to avoid enemies
Republique

Platform(s)
Android , iOS , PC , PS4 , Switch
Released
February 26, 2015
Developer
Camouflaj

First launched as an episodic series, Republique Remastered hit shelves with all released content in 2016. It is a stealth espionage and mystery game that shares similarities with Metal Gear Solid, Splinter Cell, and Deus Ex. It is somewhat more simplistic than those games, but it is still a solid stealth-em-up for fans.

Players have two methods of gameplay. The first is to control the movements of the main protagonist, Hope. The player also takes on the role of a camera person, hacking into systems and guards like the Watchdogs series.

20 Alpha Protocol

Players Can Be James Bond Or Jason Bourne

Alpha Protocol - conversation wheel choices
Alpha Protocol

Platform(s)
PS3 , Xbox 360 , PC
Released
June 1, 2010
Developer(s)
Obsidian Entertainment

Despite being among the lower-scoring games on this list, Alpha Protocol is the most authentic espionage and spy experience here. Developed by Obsidian, the game takes inspiration from films like Mission Impossible, James Bond, and the Jason Bourne franchise.

Related
The Best Stealth Games On Xbox Game Pass (March 2024)
For gamers who prefer to sneak around in the shadows, these stealth games on Xbox Game Pass offer hours of fun.

The story in Alpha Protocol offers the player branching pathways through the game via its dialogue system. Players can be aggressive like Bourne or suave like Bond. Each approach yields different results. There is a lack of polish, and its combat system is clunky, but Alpha Protocol is better than the sum of its parts. The term "diamond in the rough" is apt for this title.

19 1979 Revolution: Black Friday

An Interactive Drama Based On Real Events

the protagonist with his police officer brother
  • Released: 2016
  • Developer: INK Stories
  • Platform: Android, iOS, OS X, PC, PS4, Xbox One

1979 Revolution: Black Friday is an interactive docudrama game similar to Telltale's Walking Dead and Heavy Rain from Quantic Dream. There are politically-driven story elements based on historical events surrounding the Iranian Revolution.

Players take on the role of a photojournalist drawn into the chaos of riots and protests, taking iconic photographs. It is more of a documentary than an espionage game. However, the political tension and the narrative taking players inside the events of a revolution will appeal to fans of the genre.

18 Device 6

An Espionage Puzzle Game With A Metascore of 92

Device 6 - Mobile Games With Surprising Depth
Device 6

Platform(s)
iOS
Released
October 17, 2013
Developer(s)
Simogo

Device 6 is a text-based adventure and puzzle game where the protagonist is trying to escape a prison island. The story seems to take a lot of inspiration from the classic 1960s British TV series The Prisoner in tone and plot devices.

Despite the limitations of the genre when compared to modern visual novels and graphic adventure games, this clever text adventure takes full advantage of the iOS hardware to create something unique and intriguing.

17 The Operative: No One Lives Forever

An Austin Powers Style Espionage Action Game

No one lives forever cate archer
The Operative: No One Lives Forever

Platform(s)
PC , PS2
Released
November 9, 2000
Developer(s)
Monolith Productions

No One Lives Forever is a tongue-in-cheek tribute to classic James Bond films and TV shows like The Avengers. It's worth noting that gamers should only seek out the PC version if they want to experience the best version of this game, as it is far superior to the PS2 port.

The 1960s-set spy actioner puts players in the shoes of a female protagonist called Cate Archer, a character designed to be the female equivalent of James Bond. Just like 007, Archer uses a variety of gadgets, weapons, and stealth tactics to tackle missions in this globe-trotting adventure.

16 Shadowrun Returns

An Old-School Cyberpunk Espionage RPG Thriller

Combat in Shadowrun Returns
Shadowrun Returns

Platform(s)
PC , PS4 , PS5 , Switch , Xbox One
Released
July 25, 2013
Developer(s)
Harebrained Schemes

Many still consider the Shadowrun franchise the best RPG series set in a cyberpunk universe. Mixing elements of fantasy and technology, the world-building in Shadowrun, its interactivity, and lore are original and intriguing. It merges features of the cyberpunk genre with high fantasy characters like Orcs, Elves, and Magic in a way that works.

Shadowrun has turn-based and tactical combat with gameplay reminiscent of classic CRPGs and the Shadowrun board game. The plot elements dive into themes of industrial espionage and corporate conspiracy.

15 Invisible, Inc.

A Turn-Based Tactical Espionage Stealth Game

Invisible Inc,
Invisible, Inc.

Platform(s)
Android , iOS , PS4 , Switch , PC
Released
August 19, 2014
Developer(s)
Klei Entertainment

First released in 2015, Invisible, Inc. is a turn-based industrial espionage stealth game where players must work through covert missions within a limited time. Developed by the same team that created Mark of the Ninja and Shank, Invisible, Inc. has similar mechanics to the XCOM series, but the missions, tasks, and layout are all procedurally generated.

Related
Best Hitman Stories, Ranked
The best Hitman games feature twists and turns in the narrative of Agent 47's complex and murderous life.

As a result, each playthrough gives players an incredible amount of replayability. For console players looking for an authentic experience, Invisible Inc. is one of the best spy games on the PS4 and Switch.

14 Sniper Elite 5

World War II Setting Combines Elements Of Splinter Cell And Hitman

Sniper Elite 5 Karl using the shadows with a silenced pistol
Sniper Elite 5

Platform(s)
PC , PS5 , PS4 , Xbox One , Xbox Series X , Xbox Series S
Released
May 26, 2022
Developer(s)
Rebellion Developments

Sniper Elite 5 is an improvement over its predecessors but appears to suffer on Metacritic because of the lack of reviews. It combines elements of the Hitman and Splinter Cell series. Karl Fairburne looks and behaves more like Sam Fisher than ever before, and the potential for environmental kills and flexibility is similar to the Hitman series.

It must be said that close-quarters combat is not as fun as sniping. However, the combination of stealth and the Hitman/Batman-like ability to mark enemies through walls allows players to strategize and plan more effectively without losing tension.

13 Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell: Conviction

A Jason Bourne-Style Entry In The Splinter Cell Series

splinter-cell-conviction-official-art
Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell: Conviction

Platform(s)
PC , Xbox 360 , Android , iOS
Released
April 13, 2010
Developer(s)
Ubisoft Montreal

With the Bourne movies influencing even James Bond with its fight scenes and darker take on the superspy genre, Splinter Cell: Conviction appeared to follow suit. There are valid complaints that Conviction dialed back on the difficulty and the stealth elements. Those looking for a more Splinter Cell experience should play on the more challenging difficulty levels.

The pacing and cinematic action require strategy and quick thinking. The narrative is a great espionage and spy thriller that pits Sam Fisher against Third Echelon, mercenaries, and hitmen as he tries to get to the bottom of his daughter's murder. The combat is dynamic and fast-paced, making it satisfying to put down enemies efficiently.

12 Cyberpunk 2077

Stealth Is One Of Many Play Style Options

cyberpunk 2077 judy alvarez
Cyberpunk 2077

Platform(s)
PC , Xbox One , Stadia , PS4 , PS5 , Xbox Series S , Xbox Series X
Released
December 10, 2020
Developer(s)
CD Projekt Red

Thanks to several issues at launch, the average Metacritic score for Cyberpunk 2077 is lower than it should be. However, thanks to the latest updates and performance patches, it is in a much better state now. The current-gen and PC versions are the best way to experience the game. Cyberpunk 2077's reputation has improved massively thanks to the current-gen versions.

There are multiple approaches, and players can take a stealthy assassin-style approach to missions. Furthermore, there are themes of corporate espionage that fans of the spy genre will enjoy, helped further by futuristic technology like hacking cameras, computers, and enemy weapons. Cyberpunk 2077 offers a lot of spy tech and immersion for fans of espionage.

11 Shadow Tactics: Blades Of The Shogun

A Commandos-Style Stealth And Strategy Game Set In Feudal Japan

Screenshot of Shadow Tactics
Shadow Tactics: Blades of the Shogun

Platform(s)
PS4 , Xbox One , PC , Linux , Microsoft Windows , macOS , Amazon Luna
Released
December 6, 2016
Developer(s)
Mimimi Games

Shadow Tactics: Blades Of The Shogun was released in 2016 for the PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC. It is a real-time strategy stealth game where the player takes control of a team of assassins in Feudal Japan on missions of espionage and assassinations.

Each mission needs to be approached like a puzzle with mechanics that work similarly to the Commandos series. Furthermore, Shadow Tactics has a great story with memorable characters to drive the plot forward. Moreover, it is more forgiving than the games it takes inspiration from but still offers enough challenge and replay value for old-school fans.

10 Commandos 2: Men Of Courage

A Classic World War II Tactical Stealth Game

Commandos is a classic tactical stealth game
Commandos 2: Men of Courage

Platform(s)
PC , PS2 , Xbox One , PS4 , macOS , Nintendo Switch , Xbox (Original)
Released
September 20, 2001
Developer
Pyro Studios, Zonic

​​​​First launched in 2001, Commandos 2: Men of Courage is a classic real-time tactical espionage game set during the events of World War II. It was remastered and re-released in 2020 for modern consoles.

Commandos is a challenging game that puts players in control of an elite team of commandos that have infiltrated Nazi Germany and have to perform covert missions behind enemy lines. Even with this remaster, Commandos 2 shows its age, but it is still one of the best tactical stealth experiences.

9 Hitman 2: Silent Assassin

A Groundbreaking Entry In The Hitman Series

Attending a party in Hitman 2 Silent Assassin
Hitman 2: Silent Assassin

Platform(s)
GameCube , PC , PS2 , PS3 , Xbox (Original) , Xbox 360
Released
October 1, 2002
Developer(s)
IO Interactive

Hitman 2: Silent Assassin is the highest-scoring game in the series, according to Metacritic. The excellent Silent Assassin was a far more polished title than its predecessor and laid the groundwork for the mechanics moving forward with disguises and open-ended level design.

Related
Every Hitman Game, Ranked
With multiple games in the franchise, which Hitman iteration is the absolute best... and the worst?

The recently released Hitman trilogy for the PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC are prequels/reboots of the series that return to the roots of what made Silent Assassin so good. They feature more polished gameplay, larger environments, and seemingly infinite ways to tackle mission objectives.

8 Deathloop

An Immersive Espionage Roguelike

deathloop state of play
Deathloop

Platform(s)
PC , PS5 , Xbox Series X , Xbox Series S
Released
September 14, 2021
Developer(s)
Arkane Studios

Released as a current-gen title for the PS5, Deathloop is a stealth/action title from the same studio that created the Dishonored franchise. Like Dishonored, Deathloop uses immersive sim-like mechanics to let players try various outcomes when taking out their targets.

The roguelike element of Deathloop offers the player a surprising amount of freedom and satisfaction in being an efficient assassin. Players will find they will improve with every playthrough, thanks to the roguelike mechanics. Deathloop is one of the most immersive and satisfying spy/espionage games on the PS5 and the Xbox Series X/S.

7 Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons Of Liberty

A Cinematic Stealth Epic

Metal Gear Solid 2
Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty

Platform(s)
PC , PS3 , Xbox 360 , PS Vita
Released
November 13, 2001
Developer(s)
Konami

Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons Of Liberty was first released in 2001, and an expanded version of the game followed a year later with Metal Gear Solid 2: Substance. Like its predecessor, Metal Gear Solid 2 is a high-tech espionage thriller with a science fiction twist.

It was also one of the earliest games in the stealth genre to offer players a non-lethal approach despite being equipped with various tools and methods to kill enemies. Whether playing as Snake in the prologue or as Raiden for the remainder of the game, MGS2 lives up to its subtitle of Tactical Espionage Action with several gameplay mechanics that made it the benchmark for stealth/spy games for years to come.

6 Dishonored

A Steampunk Stealth Action Game With Multiple Approaches

dishonored promo art
Dishonored

Platform(s)
PS4 , PS3 , Xbox One , Xbox 360 , PC
Released
October 9, 2012
Developer(s)
Arkane Studios

Despite its age, Dishonored holds up today thanks to its unique art style and immersive sim mechanics. The remastered ports are available for the PS4 and Xbox One, with the latter being on Xbox Game Pass.

Related
Dishonored: Best Weapons, Ranked
Players can really get creative in Dishonored when using these handy weapons.

Dishonored and Dishonored 2 give players freedom through their cleverly designed worlds and levels. The ability to infiltrate, explore, experiment, and manipulate the environment offers players a unique stealth experience with replay value.