Epic Games Store is distributing two underrated stealth games at no cost this week, providing players with an entry point into the Styx series without financial commitment. Master of Shadows and Shards of Darkness will be available for free until January 22, after which they will no longer appear on the platform unless claimed by that date.
These titles, originally released in 2014 and 2017, feature a goblin protagonist navigating complex environments with precision. While not as widely known as other franchises, they serve as a foundation for Blades of Greed, the series' next entry scheduled for February 19 across PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series S|X.
The free promotion is part of a broader strategy by publisher Nacon and developer Cyanide Studio to generate interest in the upcoming game. Blades of Greed will introduce expanded sandbox mechanics, including new tools like poisonable food and vertical traversal options. Players who claim both games will also receive the Deluxe Edition of Shards of Darkness, which includes additional content.
Stealth games are a rare commodity in today's market, making this an unusual opportunity for players to explore the series' strengths without obligation. The upcoming Blades of Greed demo on Steam further extends this preview, with saves carrying over seamlessly when the full game launches.
The Styx games may not redefine the genre, but they offer tight controls and inventive mission design. Whether climbing structures or exploiting environmental hazards, these titles showcase a level of creativity that is often overshadowed by more prominent franchises.
For those interested in the series, this is an ideal time to experience both games before they disappear from Epic's library permanently.
