Stealth gaming has seen fewer standout entries in recent years, leaving room for the return of cunning thieves and methodical infiltration. Cyanide Studio is filling that gap with Styx: Blades of Greed, the latest entry in the series that reintroduces players to Styx, a goblin with a sharp tongue, dark humor, and a unique approach to stealth. Scheduled to release on February 19 on the Epic Games Store, the game aims to maintain the series’ hardcore roots while expanding gameplay possibilities.
Unlike traditional stealth heroes like Solid Snake or Garrett, Styx is small, agile, and physically fragile. His size and cunning allow him to hide in unconventional spots, and his approach prioritizes planning, observation, and evasion over direct confrontation. According to Cyanide Studio’s game director, Julien Desourteaux, Styx’s personality and abilities remain central to the gameplay experience, setting him apart from human stealth protagonists.
Quartz Powers and Expanded Abilities
A defining feature of the new game is Quartz, a mysterious substance capable of controlling other creatures, including goblins. In Styx’s world, Quartz has become a source of power and conflict, and it enables the character to unlock new abilities that expand the options for stealth and environmental manipulation. Players can now utilize skills such as Flux Blast, which pushes objects or enemies, and Goblin Reflexes, which allow Styx to dodge attacks automatically. Time Shifting slows the flow of time briefly, and Mind Control gives temporary influence over enemies, adding depth to both exploration and tactical decision-making.
These abilities complement the existing Amber-related powers from previous titles, providing continuity for long-time fans while introducing fresh mechanics. The skill tree encourages experimentation, giving players multiple ways to approach challenges without compromising the strategic focus on stealth.
Focus on Stealth and Agile Gameplay
Although Styx can engage enemies directly, combat is generally discouraged, as stealth remains the core of the game. The new abilities also enhance mobility, allowing Styx to move faster, climb more efficiently, and escape encounters with greater flexibility. Desourteaux emphasizes that success often depends on observation and careful planning rather than brute force, reinforcing the series’ philosophy of “cautious cunning over confrontation.”
Open-World Exploration Across the Iserian Continent
Styx: Blades of Greed expands the series beyond the confined corridors of previous titles. The game introduces open-world areas such as The Wall, Turquoise Dawn, and Akenash, inhabited by humans, orcs, and elves. Players can traverse these locations using tools like a grappling hook and glider, with additional tools unlocking later for greater progression. This design adds verticality and freedom, allowing Styx to explore multiple paths and engage with environments in creative ways similar to Metroidvania-style progression.
Unreal Engine 5 Enhances Stealth and Visual Fidelity
The shift to Unreal Engine 5 has allowed Cyanide Studio to enhance both visual fidelity and gameplay systems. Technologies such as Nanite and Lumen improve lighting, shadows, and environmental detail, which are critical for stealth. The engine also supports smoother movement, making Styx feel agile and responsive when navigating vertical environments or escaping enemies. According to Desourteaux, the technical upgrade provides more options for players to approach each encounter while maintaining the series’ stealth-focused core.
Balancing Hardcore Stealth With Modern Accessibility
While the game introduces modernized controls and gameplay improvements, it remains true to the series’ hardcore stealth roots. Enemy AI is designed to challenge players intelligently without crossing into frustration. Cyanide Studio has updated game mechanics and controls to meet current expectations, ensuring that the experience is accessible to new players without diluting the challenge or depth that long-time fans appreciate.
Release Information
Styx: Blades of Greed will launch on February 19 on the Epic Games Store. The game introduces Quartz-based powers, open-world exploration, refined stealth mechanics, and modern technical upgrades, aiming to reestablish Styx as a significant figure in stealth gaming.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What platforms will Styx: Blades of Greed be available on?
The game will be released exclusively on the Epic Games Store for PC.
When is the release date for Styx: Blades of Greed?
Styx: Blades of Greed launches on February 19, 2026.
What is Quartz in Styx: Blades of Greed?
Quartz is a powerful substance in the game world that allows Styx to gain new abilities, including Flux Blast, Goblin Reflexes, Time Shifting, and Mind Control.
Is combat necessary in Styx: Blades of Greed?
Combat is possible but generally discouraged. The game is designed around stealth, and direct confrontation is usually a last resort.
How does the open-world design affect gameplay?
The game features expansive areas such as The Wall, Turquoise Dawn, and Akenash. Players can explore these zones using tools like grappling hooks and gliders, with new tools unlocking additional progression paths over time.
What improvements does Unreal Engine 5 bring to the game?
Unreal Engine 5 enhances visual fidelity with Nanite and Lumen technologies, supports smoother character movement, and allows for more complex environmental interactions critical to stealth gameplay.
Will new players be able to enjoy Styx: Blades of Greed?
Yes. While the game maintains its hardcore stealth roots, controls and mechanics have been updated for accessibility, allowing newcomers to learn the game without compromising the challenge for veteran players.
