Thief Returns — VR Spin-Off Legacy of Shadow Gets Release Date and New Trailers

The legendary stealth-action series Thief is officially returning — this time in virtual reality. Developer Maze Theory has released new gameplay trailers for Thief VR: Legacy of Shadow, showcasing the PS VR2 and Meta Quest 3 versions. Both videos are nearly identical, though each includes a few platform-specific details. The game is set to launch on December 5.

Set in the grim, oppressive City ruled by the tyrant Baron Uliss Northcrest, the game follows a thief known as Magpie — the bearer of a mysterious ancient artifact and the only one capable of uncovering a conspiracy that threatens the world.

This marks the first new Thief title since 2014, when Eidos Montreal released a divisive reboot. Hopes are much higher this time: early previews from Western outlets praise the natural immersion of VR gameplay — players physically stow items in their backpack, extinguish torches, and knock out guards with their own hands.

Despite the leap to VR, Legacy of Shadow stays true to the franchise’s roots — nonlinear missions, optional objectives, and multiple paths to success. Critics have highlighted its atmosphere and performance, though some note issues with responsiveness and the lack of difficulty settings.

Thief VR: Legacy of Shadow will launch on PlayStation VR2 and Meta Quest 2/3. The Steam version currently lists only English localization.

The original Thief (1998) is widely considered the pioneer of the immersive sim genre — games where player choice shapes the world. Its influence can be felt in titles like Dishonored, Deus Ex, and Prey, setting the standard for atmospheric stealth and creative freedom.

Earlier this month, Maze Theory shared the game’s first full gameplay trailer.