Here's a breakdown of why some consider Thief (2014) underrated and why it might not be everyone's cup of tea:
Arguments for Thief (2014) being underrated:
* Strong stealth mechanics: While the game faced criticism for its overall design, many players praised its core stealth gameplay. It offered a challenging and rewarding experience for those who mastered its systems.
* Atmospheric world: Thief (2014) delivered a dark, gothic atmosphere with a compelling world that felt distinct and immersive.
* Interesting story: The game's narrative explored themes of corruption, power, and the consequences of choices, which resonated with some players.
Arguments against Thief (2014) being underrated:
* Glitches and bugs: The game suffered from numerous technical issues at launch, negatively impacting the overall experience.
* Linear level design: The game's level design was criticized for being more linear than its predecessors, limiting player freedom and creativity.
* Disappointing gameplay: Some found the game's mechanics clunky, repetitive, and ultimately unsatisfying.
Other contenders for underrated games in 2014:
* Transistor: A beautiful and thoughtful action RPG that flew under the radar of many.
* The Vanishing of Ethan Carter: A stunningly atmospheric and narrative-driven adventure game with a unique art style.
* The Wolf Among Us: A compelling episodic adventure game based on the Fables comic book series.
Ultimately, whether Thief (2014) is truly underrated is a matter of opinion. Some enjoyed its stealth mechanics and atmosphere, while others found it flawed and underwhelming.
Remember, a game's "underrated" status depends on your personal preferences, the criteria you use to judge a game, and the context of the gaming landscape at the time.