4.3: Before The Mission

Learn about Garrett's preparation and the crucial elements to consider before embarking on your missions in Thief: The Dark Project. Master stealth and strategy.

Alright, before you dive headfirst into the shadowy streets of The City, let's talk about getting ready. This isn't about charging in like a brute; it's about being smart, being prepared. Think of it as your pre-mission checklist, Garrett-style.

Gear Up

You've got a set amount of gold to spend before each mission, and what you choose can make or break your success. Don't just grab the first thing you see! Think about what the briefing told you. Are you expecting a lot of guards? Maybe some armored ones? That'll influence whether you want more broadheads, or perhaps some noisemakers to create distractions.

• Arrows: Standard broadheads are your bread and butter, but don't forget about water arrows to douse torches, moss arrows to quiet your footsteps on noisy surfaces, and fire arrows for… well, you know.
• Tools: Lockpicks are essential, obviously. Rope arrows can be a lifesaver for reaching new areas or escaping tricky situations.
• Consumables: Health potions are good to have, but use them sparingly.

Know Your Objective

Always, and I mean *always*, pay attention to the mission briefing. Garrett doesn't just steal for the thrill of it (well, maybe a little). He has specific goals, whether it's retrieving a particular artifact, eavesdropping on a conversation, or eliminating a target. Knowing exactly what you need to accomplish will help you plan your route and prioritize targets.

Scout the Area (Mentally)

While you can't physically scout ahead before the mission starts, you can use the information from the briefing and your knowledge of the game's mechanics to anticipate what you'll face. Think about:

• Enemy Types: What kind of guards will be there? Heavily armored knights? Nimble scouts? Undead horrors? Each requires a different approach.
• Environment: Will it be dark and cramped, or open and exposed? Are there likely to be noisy surfaces like gravel or metal?
• Potential Loot: While your primary objective is key, don't forget about the valuable loot scattered around. Sometimes, a little extra gold can make a big difference in future missions.

Practice Makes Perfect

If you're struggling with a particular mechanic, like picking locks or mastering the art of silent movement, don't be afraid to practice in an earlier, easier mission. The more comfortable you are with Garrett's abilities, the better you'll perform when the stakes are high.

Remember, patience and preparation are your greatest allies. Now, let's get to it!