The medieval fantasy stealth game Styx: Master of Shadows is currently available for free, on Windows — 100% free to keep, for a limited time, in a special promotional Epic Store’s giveaway! Don’t miss out, as Styx: Master of Shadows normally costs US$19.90!
Styx: Master of Shadows is a third-person stealth action game with RPG elements, set in a medieval fantasy world — the same as Of Orcs and Men (2012), to which it also serves as a prequel. The game was developed by Cyanide Studio and originally released on October 7, 2014.
In the game, you control Styx, a goblin who was once an orc, tasked with infiltrating a massive fortress to free a prisoner, even though he does not fully understand the reasons driving him. The gameplay demands careful, tactical approaches to navigate areas filled with enemies and/or traps. One of its most interesting mechanics is the ability to create clones, which greatly expands the possibilities for exploration, enemy distraction, and the execution of stealth-based strategies.
Originally published by Focus Home Interactive (and currently by Nacon), with versions available for Windows, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Blacknut, Styx: Master of Shadows received mixed reviews from critics. Despite this, it is very well rated on PC digital platforms, at least as of the time of this publication. In 2017, the game received a direct sequel, Styx: Shards of Darkness, with another title, Styx: Blades of Greed, scheduled for release on February 19, 2026.
You can get the game here!
Trailer
Gameplay
Styx: Master of Shadows is a third-person stealth game set inside the Tower of Akenash, a colossal structure where humans and elves guard Amber, an ancient source of power linked to the World Tree. The player assumes the role of Styx, a goblin over two centuries old who is physically weaker than his enemies but exceptionally skilled as an assassin and thief — a condition that essentially defines the game. Direct confrontations almost always result in death, making stealth not just an option, but a necessity.
Progression requires the player to remain in the shadows, carefully observing the environment and enemy behavior. Patrols must be studied, routes planned in advance, and every movement calculated. Lighting plays a central role in gameplay, as dark areas allow concealment, while illuminated zones drastically increase the risk of detection. Silently eliminating enemies, luring guards into secluded areas, or staging “accidents” are all part of the strategies used to advance without raising suspicion.
Styx possesses arcane abilities fueled by Amber that expand his tactical options, such as temporary invisibility, Amber Vision — which allows him to detect enemies, traps, and interactive elements — and the ability to create magical clones. This last mechanic is one of the game’s defining features, allowing players to explore dangerous areas without risk, distract enemies, or set up ambushes, effectively breaking the traditional stealth game formula.
Enemy behavior is dynamic and reacts to the player’s actions, punishing careless approaches and rewarding careful planning. In addition, Styx: Master of Shadows incorporates RPG mechanics: by gaining experience, the player unlocks new abilities, special moves, equipment upgrades, and more lethal weapons. These upgrades are organized into six talent trees, allowing players to shape their playstyle — whether focusing on pure stealth, faster assassinations, or heavier use of Amber powers.
About the game
Styx: Master of Shadows is an infiltration game with RPG elements taking place in a dark fantasy universe, where you sneak, steal and assassinate your way through as Styx, a Goblin two-centuries of age.
Deep inside the vertiginous and multi-layered forsaken Tower of Akenash, where Humans and Elves protect the World-Tree, source of the Amber – a powerful and magical golden sap – is hidden Styx’ chance to understand his true origin… and to make a fortune at the same time.
Prowl through the huge, miles-high Tower of Akenash, completing various missions (assassination, information recovery, etc.) and avoiding detection. Progress in the shadows, assassinate your targets in close combat, or orchestrate «accidents». RPG mechanics let you unlock new powerful skills, impressive special moves, and an optimized equipment. Amber will grant you spectacular powers such as invisibility, «amber vision», and the ability to clone yourself. Explore the levels to discover every bit of information about your past, and steal prized treasures to acquire equipment upgrades. Embrace the shadows!
- Mission areas featuring truly organic player path-finding.
- A strong focus on hardcore stealth and infiltration: progress through the shadows with a sense of verticality, and explore to find hidden treasures.
- Upgrade your skills along six unique skill-trees to improve your stealth, assassination, and technique.
- Distract, solve, smother and prowl with your clone.
- An intricate story full of twists and revelations.
Screenshots
