Hitman Absolution – Review

Hitman: Absolution – A Blast from the Past That Still Hits the Mark

Remember when stealth games were actually challenging? When choice and careful planning mattered more than just running and gunning? Hitman: Absolution, even years after its release, still scratches that itch.

Sure, it wasn’t a perfect game. It deviated from the classic Hitman formula with a more linear story, and some levels were a bit too straightforward. But when it hit its stride, Absolution delivered those signature Hitman moments that stick with you.

Freedom to Choose Your Path

The beauty of Hitman has always been the freedom to approach a mission in countless ways. Whether you’re a silent assassin, a master of disguise, or a chaos-loving agent of destruction, there’s always a path to success. Absolution, while a bit more guided, still offered that sense of agency.

Memorable Moments

One level that still stands out for me is the deranged scientist experimenting on pigs with landmines. Plenty of ways to take him out, but for me, there was only one right way: poetic justice via landmine. It took some planning, but the satisfaction of watching my plan unfold perfectly was immense. Piggies avenged!

That’s the core of what makes Hitman so rewarding: the planning, the strategy, and the flawless execution (or the hilarious screw-ups, depending on your playstyle).

Visual Feast & Crowd Mechanics

Graphically, Absolution still holds up surprisingly well. The crowds, in particular, were mind-blowing for the time. Whether navigating a bustling Chinese market or a packed subway station, the sheer number of NPCs on screen added so much to the atmosphere and immersion.

A Few More Thoughts

• The Ending: It gets a bit frustrating if you’re aiming for a Silent Assassin rating. I’ll admit, I resorted to more… direct methods in the final act.
• Disguise System: Could use some refinement, but overall it added an interesting layer of challenge.
• Contracts Mode: Creating and sharing custom hits was a brilliant addition, adding tons of replay value.

Final Verdict

Hitman: Absolution isn’t perfect, but it’s still a damn good stealth game. If you’re looking for a slower-paced, methodical experience that rewards careful planning and execution, give it a shot.

My Score: 8.5/10

(Disclaimer: This review was originally written years ago for another site, but my love for Hitman – and the occasional rant about its flaws – remains strong!)