Thick as Thieves set to launch on PC on 20 May
Thick as Thieves launches on PC via Steam on 20 May, bringing co-op stealth gameplay to a fantasy Scottish city.
A new stealth-action game titled Thick as Thieves is scheduled to launch on PC via Steam on 20 May, following a new gameplay reveal during the Triple-i Initiative showcase. The title is being developed by OtherSide Entertainment and published by Megabit Entertainment.
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The release date was confirmed alongside a fresh trailer that highlighted the game’s setting and mechanics. The showcase featured a wide selection of independent titles, with Thick as Thieves standing out for its stealth gameplay set in a distinctive fantasy-inspired world.
Veteran developers shape a new stealth world
The development of Thick as experienced figures leads Thieves in the stealth genre. OtherSide Entertainment was founded in 2013 by Paul Neurath, known for his work on classic stealth titles such as Thief and System Shock 2. In 2016, the studio was joined by Warren Spector, creator of the influential cyberpunk title Deus Ex.
Their involvement has generated interest among fans of stealth-focused games, as they have played a role in shaping the genre’s modern design principles. The new trailer introduced players to the fictional Scottish city of Kilcairn, a setting that blends early 20th-century architecture with magical elements. The environment features a mix of 1910s-inspired music, technology and fantasy, creating a distinctive atmosphere intended to support stealth-based gameplay.
At launch, the game is expected to include two playable thieves, two maps, and 16 contracts players can undertake. The developers have also included six unique pieces of equipment, allowing players to approach missions in different ways. Multiple difficulty settings will be available, each with a layout that adjusts to increase replay value and challenge.
Gameplay direction shifts towards cooperative play
Since its original reveal at The Game Awards 2024 in December 2024, Thick as Thieves has undergone significant changes in its design direction. Initially described as a PvPvE title, the project has shifted to focus on solo and cooperative play, removing direct player-versus-player combat from its core.
The studio confirmed the change in an update posted to Steam on 2 April 2026. Developers explained that the decision came after observing how players interacted with the evolving game world during development.
“As development progressed and the world of Kilcairn came to life, we found that we were having more fun with solo and co-op play. So, we’ve made a decision we feel is right for the game: Thick as Thieves is now focused on two-player co-op and single player. This sharpened focus has allowed us to double down on what makes Thick as Thieves truly special — dynamic stealth gameplay.”
The shift has drawn mixed reactions from early fans and playtest participants. Some players expressed disappointment at the removal of competitive player-versus-player elements, which had been part of the original concept. In response to community questions, one developer suggested that PvPvE features could return in the future, stating, “PvPvE may come further down the line.”
Platform plans remain uncertain beyond PC
Although Thick as Thieves was previously announced for multiple platforms, including PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S, the latest announcement confirmed only a PC release via Steam. There has been no further update on the timing or status of console versions.
This lack of clarity has left some uncertainty about the game’s wider rollout. The earlier multi-platform announcement suggested a broader launch strategy, but current information indicates that the PC version may arrive first, with console editions possibly following later.
Despite these unanswered questions, anticipation remains high among fans of stealth games. The involvement of veteran developers and the game’s emphasis on strategic, dynamic stealth mechanics have contributed to continued interest. The unique blend of magic and technology within Kilcairn’s setting also positions the title as a distinctive addition to the stealth genre.
With the confirmed PC release now approaching on 20 May, players are expected to gain their first full experience of the world and mechanics that have been evolving since the game’s initial reveal. Further announcements regarding additional platforms and future gameplay features are likely to follow once the PC version launches.
