GAME REVIEW: Hitman Absolution (PC)

Once again you play as the great hitman, Agent 47. Forced to eliminate your former handler, Diana, you are left protecting a young girl targeted by The Agency, called Victoria. Hitman: Absolution brings a new layout to the franchise in a more linear storyline and arcade-like competitive modes.

GOOD

1.       Replay Value

Hitman: Absolution introduces a more arcade layout by providing a scoring system and in-game achievements that can be completed during each level. The many achievements available and score rankings allows for great replay value, as you compete against other players in your country and the entire world. 

Additionally, the ‘multiplayer’ aspect consists of player-made contracts. These individually made contracts enable the player to set their own targets and methods of assassination, which can then be completed by other players. 

2.       Shooting Mechanics

The bullet time mechanic is integrated into the ‘instinct’ meter that allows you to mark out multiple targets for a few seconds as the ‘instinct’ meter depletes. This makes for quick and easy assassinations, when outnumbered.  Additionally, the cover system enables fluent movement between cover and the wide shooting range while leaning, makes taking the stealthier solutions more enjoyable. 

3.       AI Response 

The A.I demonstrates responsive noise and motion detection, as they actively search and follow you, if detected or under suspicion. The responsive-ness of the A.I further encourages the stealth approach of the game. 

BAD

1.       Storyline

Due to the arcade-like layout of the game, the storyline is abruptly interrupted as every mission ends with a menu. This menu displays overall score, unlocks, achievements, and the option to replay the mission. Having played a little of the previous Hitman games, I found that this new edition is quite different and regrettably less fun, in terms of embracing the freedom to make your own fun. 

2.       Uninspiring Characters

The characters introduced throughout the game are quite poorly written as they seem tacked on with inefficient background story. Not having a justifiable reason to eliminate these villains simply makes them card-board cut-outs that needed to be eliminated. However, an exception is the main villainous cowboy that is wonderfully voiced and well written with devilish humour. 

3.       Strict Stealth-orientated

Accustomed to a more Rambo style, I initially was irritated as the game constantly refuses to let me divert from the stealth-orientated approach. If you choose to gun your way out of a situation, the game harshly punishes you by sending numerous, heavily armoured backup that almost guarantees you to die. Additionally, negative scores are clearly displayed if you choose to play anyway other than the stealthiest approach. However, when I finally accepted the stealth approach, the game became quite complex and exciting. Planning and waiting multiple approaches to eliminate your target becomes slightly addictive. 

Initially annoyed how the game harshly punishes me for diverting from the stealth-orientated gameplay, I soon appreciated the amount of fun and replay value that the game provides. Nevertheless, I do find myself slightly sad that Absolution decided to become more arcade-like, as it does not seem to be as fun as the previous games. However, as a game on its own, Hitman: Absolution does provide accessible replay value, which can be played at a more casual pace.