Sleight of Hand for Xbox Series X|S

Action deck-builder in a noir world

Sleight of Hand is a premium adventure experience set in a dark, hardboiled world. This unique game from RiffRaff Games combines deckbuilding-based combat with stealth-focused gameplay. Lead an unlikely hero as she takes down the coven she used to work with.

The good use of 30s noir design choices and the combination of gameplay elements make Sleight of Hand a promising title, much like a mix between deck builders like Balatro and Ruff Ghanor, and the mystery-filled world of Black Skylands.

Move with stealth, fight with cards

Sleight of Hand has a rather interesting premise. You play as a rogue witch intent on taking down her old coven. Her main weapon is a deck of cards and depending on your draw, can be used for a variety of tasks. Scout areas, set traps, disable enemies, and interact with the environment. This deckbuilding format works well with its stealth-focused adventure gameplay.

Aside from the interesting gameplay take, the overall design is also worth noting. The unlikely combination of tarot and other card-related mystic arts together with the noir feels straight out of the 1930s make a fascinating and enjoyable world, plus the soundtrack it has. This only catch is its steep learning curve.

Where card-based gameplay takes center stage

Overall, Sleight of Hand is a very promising title. Its visual treatment and gameplay concept can draw more people into the deckbuilding subgenre. The unusual combination of witches and gangsters has resulted in an unusual but very refreshing world-building effort. All these elements combine to create a new and utterly enjoyable experience.