Explore a thrilling blend of stealth and metroidvania in The Siege and the Sandfox, where every move counts in this unique platformer experience.
A Perfect Blend of Stealth and Exploration
If you're like me and have a soft spot for both retro side-scrollers and stealth adventures, you probably noticed there aren’t many games that mix these genres well. We’ve been waiting for titles like Mark of the Ninja 2 or a cool Splinter Cell demake to hit the scene, but nothing quite scratches that itch — until now. The Siege and the Sandfox, a fresh "stealthvania" that just launched on Steam, steps in to fill that gap.
When I first booted up The Siege and the Sandfox, it felt like Metroid had been given a stealth makeover inspired by Assassin’s Creed. Honestly, it’s a mashup that surprised me with how well it worked. The game’s open-ended layout encourages exploration, but don’t expect to breeze through it. Locked doors and barriers require clever upgrades — only here, instead of high-tech gadgets, you wield classic thieves’ tools. Imagine boots for scaling walls, or a blackjack to quietly knock out guards.
Stealth is the Name of the Game
The Sandfox, the game’s sly protagonist, isn’t built for brawling. Instead, the key is to stay hidden, sneak along quietly, and use tactics like extinguishing torches to shrink enemy sightlines. It’s a methodical experience that rewards patience over brute force.
What adds a charming twist is the game’s narration, which comments on your every move. Hide behind a pillar and the narrator might whisper how the Sandfox disappeared from sight. Take a breather during a less tense moment, and you’ll hear remarks about the hero’s rusty but improving skills. These little touches are paired with atmospheric music cues to keep you on your toes.
"The Sandfox dove out of sight."
Beautiful Pixel Art and Immersive Movement
Graphically, the game is a feast for the eyes. From majestic desert palaces to shadowy caverns, the pixel art world is richly detailed and varied. It feels handcrafted with love, pulling you into its sand-swept narrative.
Movement in The Siege and the Sandfox stands out too. Unlike the breezy double jumps and air dashes common in many metroidvanias, your actions here feel weightier and more intentional. The Sandfox rolls into long jumps, clambers up walls, and shimmies up pillars with a solid, satisfying sense of momentum. You can practically feel the thud when he lands; it’s parkour with a realistic edge.
A Fresh Take on Stealth Platforming
While I can’t yet say how the stealth challenges develop later on, the opening hours left me refreshed and eager for more. If you enjoy the frantic, brutal combat of games like Blasphemous or Bloodstained, this might offer a welcome breather. Instead of rushing headlong, you’re invited to think, plan, and maybe worry a little about those heavily armed foes lurking down the hall.
The Siege and the Sandfox is out now on Steam, where it’s already earning a solid "Mostly Positive" reception from players.
Conclusion
The Siege and the Sandfox emerges as a captivating stealthvania that perfectly marries stealth mechanics with metroidvania exploration. Its charming pixel art, weighty movement, and witty narration bring a fresh vibe to the genre, making it a must-try for fans of stealth or retro platformers.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What makes The Siege and the Sandfox different from other stealth games?
This game pairs stealth with metroidvania-style exploration, featuring thoughtful upgrades and a narrative that highlights every stealthy move. - How is the game’s art style described?
It boasts beautiful pixel art ranging from grand desert castles to dark, foreboding caverns, creating an immersive world. - Is combat a major part of the game?
No, the focus is on sneaking and avoiding fights. The Sandfox is not a fighter, so staying hidden is crucial. - What kind of upgrades can players expect?
Rather than futuristic gadgets, upgrades include traditional thieves’ tools like wall-running boots and a blackjack for stealth takedowns. - Where can I purchase The Siege and the Sandfox?
It’s available on Steam and has received positive reviews from early players.
