The iconic video game franchise Hitman is back, but with a twist. The latest installment, developed by IO Interactive, introduces a bold new direction for the series: episodic gameplay. Instead of a full game release, the new Hitman is being launched in episodes, starting with a tutorial and a mission set in Paris. As fans of the series are curious about this shift, the question remains: Is it worth the wait, and does this change fit the game’s legendary assassin, Agent 47?
A Look Into the Story: Where It All Begins
Hitman first hit the gaming world in 1992, and the latest game takes us back to the early days of Agent 47. The story kicks off with Agent 47 undergoing training at an ICA facility, where he meets Diana Burnwood, his handler. From the start, the cold and emotionless demeanor of Agent 47 sets him apart from other protagonists, and it’s clear that he is both feared and respected.
As the training progresses, Agent 47 is put to the test by Erich Soders, the training director. Their interactions highlight the main character’s mysterious and dangerous nature. After a few simulated missions, the game fast-forwards to the present day, just after the events of Hitman: Absolution.
Agent 47’s next mission involves taking out two fashion moguls who secretly lead an international spy ring. If he fails, the lives of several undercover MI6 agents will be at risk. Successfully completing the job, Agent 47 escapes, but the mission is only the beginning of what promises to be an intense journey ahead.
The story itself is rather minimalistic, and while it sets up the premise, there’s a lot more to come. With the game being episodic, players will have to wait a month between each new episode, which can be a tough wait for those eager to see how the plot unfolds.
Sound Design: Setting the Mood
From the very beginning, the sound in Hitman sets a serious and exciting tone. The opening theme is filled with suspenseful beats, reminiscent of action-packed spy thrillers like Bourne and Bond. As you dive into the missions, the music maintains that intense vibe, keeping you engaged.
One of the standout features of the sound design is the voices of the NPCs. Their dialogue adds a layer of humor and realism to the otherwise intense atmosphere. David Bateson returns as Agent 47, and his voice work brings an eerie coldness to the character. His tone is unsettling at times, which only adds to the mystery of Agent 47. This unique vocal performance keeps you questioning whether Agent 47 is even human anymore.
Gameplay: Silent But Deadly
What sets Hitman apart from many other games is its need for a more strategic approach. Most games will let you run and gun, but in Hitman, you need finesse. The game’s core mechanics are based on stealth, observation, and careful planning. This is where the latest installment shines.
Each mission offers multiple ways to take out your target. In the Paris mission, for example, you can disguise yourself as various people, find creative ways to eliminate the target, or use the environment to your advantage. This flexibility is part of what makes Hitman so fun and rewarding to play.
The game includes challenges within each mission, making you go back and explore different ways of achieving your goals. This not only extends the gameplay but also encourages replayability. The various approaches to each mission make you feel like there’s always something new to discover, and the satisfaction of pulling off a perfect assassination is immensely gratifying.
Despite its challenging nature, the game never feels punishing. Even when you make mistakes, you can quickly learn from them and continue trying different tactics. The trial-and-error gameplay never feels like a chore but rather a rewarding experience. If you’re a fan of stealth games that demand planning and patience, you’ll love this installment.
That said, there were a few moments where commands didn’t register as expected, and sometimes guards would spot you from behind walls. However, a recent patch has addressed some of these issues, so you may not encounter them as often.
The Verdict: A Fresh Take on an Old Favorite
One of the biggest concerns about the new Hitman is the episodic release model. For some, waiting a month between episodes might feel like a drawback, but personally, I found it to be an enjoyable experience. Each mission took around 45 minutes to an hour to complete, and I spent several hours exploring, completing objectives, and finding new ways to eliminate my targets. If you’re the type of player who enjoys replaying levels, this structure adds extra value to the game.
While I do miss the days of a complete game all at once, I can’t deny that this new Hitman is a blast. The episodic format brings a fresh perspective to the franchise, and despite the occasional technical hiccup, it remains a highly enjoyable and rewarding game. If you’re a fan of stealth gameplay, strategic thinking, and a cold, calculating assassin, then this new Hitman installment is definitely worth picking up.