Stealth mechanics in many sci-fi games frequently incorporate a hacking component, offering players a modern twist on traditional lockpicking. Hacking allows you to gain access to terminals and machines, serving as an essential tool for navigating restricted areas, gathering vital intelligence, or even turning hostile technology to your advantage.By utilizing hacking, players can often evade direct confrontations altogether, enhancing their strategic gameplay.
A variety of games not only feature engaging hacking mini-games, but they also enable players to outsmart their foes through espionage and subterfuge, often before enemies even detect their presence.
10. Watch Dogs 2
Hack Everything
Although it doesn’t occupy the number one spot, Watch Dogs 2 is a vital inclusion due to its overarching theme of hacking. The game provides players with the exhilarating fantasy of being part of an underground hacktivist group known as DedSec.
While the first installment included simplified hacking mechanics, the sequel evolves these elements into a comprehensive gameplay style where players can hack virtually any technology in their environment. Although you can approach the game like a conventional third-person shooter, it’s far more rewarding to explore the potential of completing missions without firing a single shot.
9. Sleeping Dogs
The Numbers, What Do They Mean?
In Sleeping Dogs, the hacking mechanic serves as a minor collectible feature primarily utilized during Drug Busts. It allows protagonist Wei Shen to access surveillance cameras for identifying drug dealers within this Hong Kong crime drama.
After establishing a relationship with a hacker character named Not Ping, players unlock access to security terminal panels across the city, aiming for the achievement titled “Hong Kong Super Hacker.” The accompanying hacking mini-game tasks players with guessing a four-number code based on provided hints, rewarding persistence and logical deduction.
8. Crysis 3
Infiltrate and Hack
Notable for its focus on nanotechnology, the hacking mini-game in Crysis 3 acts primarily as a tactical tool used to disable traps and create stealthy gameplay options. Limited to the main campaign, players can use their nanosuit’s Tactical Visor to select and access a hacking interface.
The objective is to connect bouncing nodes to decipher the code’s wavelength. Successful hacking allows players to disable defenses and turn enemy technology against its operators, enhancing the element of surprise.
7. GTA 5
Score Big
Grand Theft Auto 5 appeals to players both for its gameplay and its online community, which often engages in hacking. The single-player campaign incorporates recruiting skilled hackers for heists, while GTA Online brings interactive hacking mini-games that allow players to engage in high-stakes thefts.
Through in-game devices and terminals, players access various mini-games, each tailored to specific challenges—like HackConnect.exe for unlocking doors or BruteForce.exe for breaking passcodes. Unique mini-games cater to individual heist themes, enriching the overall gameplay experience.
6. Warframe
They Won’t Know What Hit ‘Em
During Grineer missions in Warframe, hacking involves timing operations to align spinning pins within a circle—a quick and efficient task that requires strategic completion to minimize vulnerability to attacks.
Conversely, Corpus terminals feature hexagonal puzzles demanding alignment of internal lines. The gameplay can be fast-paced, forcing players to act quickly as they connect to securing systems. With mod options available to streamline hacking, players can balance the trade-off between strategy and speed.
5. Fallout 4
Clickity Clackity on the Terminal
In the desolate, post-apocalyptic landscapes of Fallout 4, players encounter terminals that require astute hacking skills to unlock secrets and resources. Engaging with these terminals presents lines of seemingly random code, offering a total of four attempts to decipher the correct access word before locking players out.
To hack efficiently, characters need to possess the Hacker skill, which is dependent on intelligence attributes. Successfully narrowing down potential options involves identifying common letters and eliminating incorrect entries within the algorithm.
4. Deus Ex: Mankind Divided
Capture Those Nodes
The Deus Ex series has resonated with fans due to its impressive blend of FPS mechanics and world-building. In Mankind Divided, the hacking mini-game operates as a tower defense-style mechanic where players must capture nodes while avoiding detection.
Starting from a base node, players navigate a grid attempting to secure additional nodes, all while contending with a firewall that seeks to regain control. This engaging format results in high-risk, high-reward gameplay that challenges players to balance speed with strategy regarding their objectives.
3. Cyberpunk 2077
Break Through the ICE, Choom
Within the sprawling universe of Cyberpunk 2077, players can explore diverse abilities suited for various gameplay styles. Netrunners, the cyber sorcerers of this world, wield the capability to manipulate their surroundings without any physical intervention.
V, the protagonist, possesses a Quick Hack ability to install viruses remotely, but initial access to devices is gained through the Breach Protocol mini-game. This aspect challenges players to identify sequences of code within a complex matrix to successfully establish a link to the local network.
Completing this mini-game can significantly amplify a Netrunner’s power, allowing them to control devices and attack adversaries with strategic precision. The reputation of Netrunners as feared entities in Night City is well-earned.
2. Sly Cooper: Thieves In Time
Bentley’s Specialty
Unlike other entries on this list that present hacking through terminal interfaces, Sly Cooper: Thieves in Time employs a top-down bullet hell style for its hacking sequences. Within this context, Bentley, the tech-savvy member of the thieving gang, emerges as the central hacker.
Players engage in a mini-game called System Cracker, guiding an avatar through cyberspace while evading enemy attacks. This title extends the concept with additional mini-games that utilize motion controls, introducing further diversity to the hacking experience.
1. NieR Automata
9S Is An Unsung Hero
In NieR: Automata, 9S, the second protagonist, plays a pivotal role as both a scout and hacker for the YorHa organization. Unlike the more combat-focused characters, 9S has a unique ability to infiltrate systems of devices and Machine Lifeforms to control enemies while launching his attacks.
The hacking mechanic, available in specific chapters, transforms the usual combat rhythm, substituting 2B’s heavy attack with a bullet hell mini-game. The objective centers around dismantling defenses while weaving through enemy projectiles, presenting a thrilling challenge.
Successfully executing hacks grants players the option to command defeated foes, with strategic abilities including explosive detonation or remote control, which can significantly influence battle dynamics.
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