Unveiling the Shadows: Introducing Sleight of Hand
In a notable announcement during today’s Xbox Partner Preview, RiffRaff Games, led by Joshua Boggs—the mastermind behind the acclaimed noir puzzle game FRAMED—has introduced their latest project, Sleight of Hand. This game is set to redefine the stealth action genre with its unique combination of third-person gameplay, card mechanics, and an occult narrative. Scheduled for a 2025 release, it will be available on Xbox Series X|S, Windows PC through Xbox Game Pass, and Steam.
The Setting and Gameplay
Sleight of Hand is staged in the gritty, rain-drenched Steeple City. Players will embody the character of Lady Luck, voiced by Debi Mae West (known for her role as Meryl Silverburgh in Metal Gear Solid). As a former occult detective with a complicated past, Lady Luck is drawn back into the fray for one last mission—to dismantle the very coven she once belonged to. The game promises a deep dive into a world where ritual magic and cursed artifacts delineate the lines between the powerful and the powerless.
The gameplay revolves around utilizing a deck of cursed cards to cast spells and navigate through a city teeming with danger. From evading patrols by transforming into smoke to employing cards that link fates and enable simultaneous effects on multiple targets, Sleight of Hand offers a fresh take on stealth action. The game emphasizes strategy and adaptability, allowing players to tailor their approach to each challenge.
Innovative Features and Development Insights
Sleight of Hand is designed to be highly replayable, with levels that encourage experimentation and a variety of strategies. Players can upgrade their deck to suit their play style, whether they prefer sneaking past enemies undetected or taking them out with potent combinations of cards and spells.
Joshua Boggs shared his enthusiasm for the project, citing his inspiration from Hideo Kojima’s work and a desire to innovate within the stealth genre through strategic card play. The development of Sleight of Hand, as described by Boggs, has been both challenging and rewarding, representing a significant step forward in game design and narrative.
Release and Availability
As anticipation builds for its launch, Sleight of Hand is poised to offer a novel experience for fans of the stealth action genre. With its innovative gameplay, intriguing storyline, and the pedigree of its development team, the game is set to make a significant impact when it releases on Xbox Series X|S and PC via Xbox Game Pass and Steam in 2025.
Platforms: Microsoft Windows, Xbox Series X|S
