A
stealth game is a type of
video game that tasks the player with using
stealth to avoid or overcome antagonists. Games in the
genre typically allow the player to remain undetected by hiding, using disguises, and/or avoiding noise. Some games allow the player to choose between a stealthy approach or directly attacking antagonists, perhaps rewarding the player for greater levels of stealth. The genre has employed
espionage,
counter-terrorism and
rogue themes, with
protagonists who have been identified as
special forces operatives,
spies,
thieves,
ninjas, and
assassins. Some games have also combined stealth elements with other genres, such as
first-person shooters and even
platformers.