What is the Best Version of the Hitman?
The Hitman series has been a staple of the gaming world for decades, with its unique blend of stealth, strategy, and assassination. With the release of Hitman 3, fans of the series are left wondering which version is the best. In this article, we’ll dive into the world of Hitman and explore the pros and cons of each game in the series.
Hitman (Codename 47)
Released in 2000, Hitman (Codename 47) was the first game in the series and set the tone for what was to come. This game introduced players to Agent 47, a genetically engineered assassin with a barcode tattooed on the back of his head. The game’s storyline follows 47 as he attempts to uncover the truth about his past and take down his targets.
Pros:
- Classic gameplay: Hitman (Codename 47) laid the foundation for the series’ gameplay mechanics, which have remained largely unchanged over the years.
- Simple yet effective storyline: The game’s storyline is straightforward and easy to follow, making it accessible to new players.
Cons:
- Graphics: The game’s graphics are dated, and the game’s engine has not aged well.
- Limited levels: The game features only six levels, which can be completed relatively quickly.
Hitman 2: Silent Assassin
Released in 2002, Hitman 2: Silent Assassin built upon the success of the first game and introduced new gameplay mechanics. The game’s storyline follows 47 as he takes on a new target list, while also dealing with the consequences of his actions in the first game.
Pros:
- Improved graphics: Hitman 2: Silent Assassin features improved graphics compared to the first game, making it a visually appealing experience.
- New gameplay mechanics: The game introduces new ways to take out targets, such as the use of explosives and disguises.
Cons:
- More complex storyline: The game’s storyline is more complex than the first game, which can be confusing for new players.
- Less levels: The game features only nine levels, which can be completed relatively quickly.
Hitman: Blood Money
Released in 2006, Hitman: Blood Money is widely considered one of the best games in the series. The game’s storyline follows 47 as he becomes embroiled in a conspiracy involving a wealthy businessman and a group of mercenaries.
Pros:
- Improved graphics: Hitman: Blood Money features improved graphics compared to the previous games in the series.
- More levels: The game features 20 levels, which provide a significant amount of gameplay.
- Improved AI: The game’s AI is more advanced than previous games in the series, making it more challenging to take out targets.
Cons:
- More complex storyline: The game’s storyline is more complex than previous games in the series, which can be confusing for new players.
- More bugs: The game has a higher number of bugs than previous games in the series, which can be frustrating.
Hitman (2016)
Released in 2016, Hitman (2016) is a soft reboot of the series and introduces a new gameplay mechanic called "Contracts." The game’s storyline follows 47 as he takes on a new target list, while also dealing with the consequences of his actions in the previous games.
Pros:
- Improved graphics: Hitman (2016) features improved graphics compared to previous games in the series.
- New gameplay mechanic: The game introduces the "Contracts" system, which allows players to create their own contracts and share them with others.
- More levels: The game features 17 levels, which provide a significant amount of gameplay.
Cons:
- Less focus on stealth: The game’s focus on action and combat can make it less stealthy than previous games in the series.
- More bugs: The game has a higher number of bugs than previous games in the series, which can be frustrating.
Hitman 2
Released in 2018, Hitman 2 is the sequel to Hitman (2016) and introduces new gameplay mechanics and levels. The game’s storyline follows 47 as he takes on a new target list, while also dealing with the consequences of his actions in the previous games.
Pros:
- Improved graphics: Hitman 2 features improved graphics compared to the previous game in the series.
- New gameplay mechanics: The game introduces new ways to take out targets, such as the use of drones and hacking.
- More levels: The game features 21 levels, which provide a significant amount of gameplay.
Cons:
- Less focus on stealth: The game’s focus on action and combat can make it less stealthy than previous games in the series.
- More bugs: The game has a higher number of bugs than previous games in the series, which can be frustrating.
Hitman 3
Released in 2021, Hitman 3 is the latest game in the series and introduces new gameplay mechanics and levels. The game’s storyline follows 47 as he takes on a new target list, while also dealing with the consequences of his actions in the previous games.
Pros:
- Improved graphics: Hitman 3 features improved graphics compared to the previous game in the series.
- New gameplay mechanics: The game introduces new ways to take out targets, such as the use of firearms and explosives.
- More levels: The game features 23 levels, which provide a significant amount of gameplay.
Cons:
- Less focus on stealth: The game’s focus on action and combat can make it less stealthy than previous games in the series.
- More bugs: The game has a higher number of bugs than previous games in the series, which can be frustrating.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the best version of the Hitman series is subjective and depends on personal preference. If you’re looking for a classic Hitman experience with simple gameplay and a straightforward storyline, then Hitman (Codename 47) may be the best choice for you. If you’re looking for a more modern take on the series with improved graphics and new gameplay mechanics, then Hitman 3 may be the best choice for you.
Recommendation
Based on the pros and cons of each game in the series, here is a recommended order to play the games:
- Hitman (Codename 47)
- Hitman 2: Silent Assassin
- Hitman: Blood Money
- Hitman (2016)
- Hitman 2
- Hitman 3
This order allows you to experience the series in chronological order and see how the gameplay and storyline have evolved over time.