Hitman: Absolution™
" Stylish action game with engaging story and varied stealth, but highly linear missions limit freedom "
Hitman: Absolution™ Review
Hitman: Absolution is a divisive entry in the Hitman franchise, often described as both underrated and overhated. It diverges from the traditional open-world stealth assassination style by focusing more on a linear, cinematic, and story-driven experience. Players appreciate the game's engaging story that explores a more emotional and human side of Agent 47, with well-developed characters like Victoria and a noir thriller atmosphere.
The gameplay blends stealth with action elements, allowing players to approach missions with patience or guns blazing, though some find the stealth mechanics janky and the checkpoint system frustrating. The game’s graphics were praised for their style at release and still hold up reasonably well, despite some complaints about the yellowish tint and character models.
While the game offers a fresh take and solid mechanics, many players criticize its linearity, limited tactical freedom, and certain gameplay design choices that stray from the franchise’s roots. Overall, it remains a worthwhile experience, especially when purchased on sale.
Highlights
Players particularly praise the storyline for adding depth to Agent 47, making him more than just a cold assassin. The gameplay mechanics are enjoyed for their mix of stealth and action, allowing creative approaches to missions. The game’s graphics and atmosphere are considered stylish and fitting for its noir tone, with some reviewers noting it has aged well. Fans appreciate the iconic executions and the variety of ways to complete objectives, despite the more linear mission design.
Criticisms
Common criticisms include the linear level design which limits player freedom and creativity, making it feel more like an interactive film than a sandbox game. The stealth mechanics are sometimes described as janky, with problematic disguise systems and a punishing scoring system that discourages non-lethal or aggressive playstyles. Some players also find the story generic or rushed, and the game suffers from a lack of replay incentives and multiplayer features due to server shutdowns. Visual issues like the yellow tint and character model quality are also noted.
Pros
- • Engaging story adds unexpected emotional depth to Agent 47’s character.
- • Blend of stealth and action allows varied playstyles and creative kills.
- • Stylish graphics and noir atmosphere hold up well over time.
- • Iconic executions and satisfying core gameplay mechanics remain enjoyable.
- • Good pacing with tense, cinematic missions for newcomers.
- • Strong character development, especially for supporting cast like Victoria.
- • Runs well on low-end PCs, offering value for money.
Cons
- • Highly linear mission design restricts player freedom and creativity.
- • Stealth mechanics and disguise system are often janky and frustrating.
- • Checkpoint and AI behavior can lead to excessive waiting and repetition.
- • Scoring system punishes aggressive or non-stealthy playstyles unfairly.
- • Story can feel rushed, generic, or uneven in pacing.
- • Visuals suffer from a persistent yellow tint and some poor character models.
- • Lack of replay incentives and multiplayer due to server shutdowns.
Rating Criteria
The original assassin is back! Betrayed by the Agency and hunted by the police, Agent 47 finds himself pursuing redemption in a corrupt and twisted world.
