The Hitman series has been a staple of the gaming world for decades, offering players a unique blend of stealth, strategy, and action. With the rise of free-to-play games and subscription-based services, many gamers are wondering if Hitman is a free game. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Hitman, exploring the different games in the series, their pricing models, and what you can expect from this beloved franchise.
A Brief History of Hitman
The Hitman series was first introduced in 2000 by IO Interactive, a Danish video game developer. The game follows the story of Agent 47, a highly skilled assassin working for a secret organization known as the International Contract Agency (ICA). The series has since grown to include multiple games, each with its unique storyline, gameplay mechanics, and features.
Main Games in the Series
Here are the main games in the Hitman series:
- Hitman: Codename 47 (2000)
- Hitman 2: Silent Assassin (2002)
- Hitman: Contracts (2004)
- Hitman: Blood Money (2006)
- Hitman: Absolution (2012)
- Hitman (2016)
- Hitman 2 (2018)
- Hitman 3 (2021)
Pricing Models and Free Versions
So, is Hitman a free game? The answer is a bit complicated. While there isn’t a completely free version of Hitman, there are some options that offer free gameplay or discounted prices.
Free Trial Versions
Some games in the series offer free trial versions, allowing players to experience a limited portion of the game before deciding to purchase it. For example, the 2016 Hitman game offers a free trial version that includes the first episode, “Paris.”
Free Starter Pack
In 2019, IO Interactive released a free starter pack for Hitman 2, which includes the first level, “Nightcall,” and a selection of contracts. This starter pack is available on PC, Xbox, and PlayStation.
Hitman Free on Epic Games Store
In 2020, the 2016 Hitman game was available for free on the Epic Games Store as part of their weekly free game promotion. This was a limited-time offer, but it gave players a chance to experience the game without spending a dime.
Hitman 3 Free Demo
IO Interactive released a free demo for Hitman 3, which includes a playable level, “Dubai.” This demo is available on PC, Xbox, and PlayStation.
Subscription-Based Services
Another way to access Hitman games without purchasing them outright is through subscription-based services.
Xbox Game Pass
Xbox Game Pass is a subscription service that offers access to a library of games, including Hitman 2 and Hitman 3. For a monthly fee, players can download and play these games without having to purchase them.
PlayStation Now
PlayStation Now is a cloud gaming service that allows players to stream games, including Hitman: Absolution and Hitman: Blood Money. While not all Hitman games are available on the service, it’s a great way to experience some of the older titles in the series.
Purchasing Hitman Games
If you’re interested in purchasing Hitman games, there are several options available.
Individual Games
Each game in the series can be purchased individually, either digitally or physically. Prices vary depending on the game and the platform.
Season Passes
Some games in the series offer season passes, which include additional content, such as new levels, contracts, and game modes.
Complete Editions
IO Interactive has released complete editions for some games in the series, which include all the DLCs and additional content.
Conclusion
While Hitman is not a completely free game, there are several options available that offer free gameplay or discounted prices. From free trial versions to subscription-based services, players can experience the world of Hitman without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or new to the series, there’s never been a better time to join the world of Agent 47.
Final Thoughts
The Hitman series is a beloved franchise that offers a unique blend of stealth, strategy, and action. With its rich storyline, engaging gameplay, and high replay value, it’s no wonder why fans keep coming back for more. Whether you’re looking for a free game or willing to purchase one, the Hitman series is definitely worth checking out.
Hitman Game Pricing Table
Game | Platform | Price |
---|---|---|
Hitman (2016) | PC, Xbox, PlayStation | $19.99 – $29.99 |
Hitman 2 | PC, Xbox, PlayStation | $29.99 – $39.99 |
Hitman 3 | PC, Xbox, PlayStation | $39.99 – $49.99 |
Hitman: Absolution | PC, Xbox, PlayStation | $9.99 – $19.99 |
Hitman: Blood Money | PC, Xbox, PlayStation | $9.99 – $19.99 |
Note: Prices may vary depending on the region and retailer.
Is Hitman a free game?
Hitman is not entirely a free game, but it does offer some free content. The game’s developers, IO Interactive, have made the first episode of the game available for free on various platforms, including PC, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One. This free episode allows players to experience the game’s core mechanics and get a feel for the gameplay. However, to access the full game, players need to purchase the remaining episodes or the complete season.
It’s worth noting that the free episode is a great way to try out the game before committing to a purchase. The episode includes a variety of missions and challenges, giving players a good idea of what to expect from the full game. Additionally, the free episode is a great way for new players to get started with the series, as it introduces the game’s protagonist, Agent 47, and the game’s core mechanics.
What is the gameplay like in Hitman?
The gameplay in Hitman is focused on stealth and strategy. Players take on the role of Agent 47, a highly trained assassin, and must use their skills and abilities to complete missions and eliminate targets. The game features a variety of environments, from crowded cities to isolated mansions, and players must use their wits to navigate these environments undetected. The game also features a variety of challenges and objectives, such as completing missions without being detected or eliminating targets in a specific way.
The gameplay in Hitman is highly replayable, with multiple ways to complete each mission. Players can choose to play stealthily, using disguises and hiding spots to remain undetected, or they can take a more aggressive approach, using guns and explosives to take out their targets. The game also features a variety of upgrades and unlocks, allowing players to customize their gameplay experience and improve their skills.
What are the system requirements for Hitman?
The system requirements for Hitman vary depending on the platform and the level of graphics quality desired. For PC players, the minimum system requirements include a 64-bit operating system, a quad-core processor, 8 GB of RAM, and a graphics card with at least 2 GB of VRAM. The recommended system requirements are more demanding, requiring a more powerful processor, more RAM, and a higher-end graphics card.
For console players, the game is available on PlayStation 4 and Xbox One, and the system requirements are built into the console hardware. However, players with older consoles may experience some performance issues, such as slower loading times or reduced graphics quality. It’s worth noting that the game’s developers, IO Interactive, have optimized the game for a wide range of hardware configurations, so players with lower-end hardware can still enjoy the game.
Can I play Hitman with friends?
Hitman does not have a traditional multiplayer mode, where players can play together in the same game world. However, the game does feature a variety of online modes and features that allow players to interact with each other. For example, players can participate in online contracts, where they can compete with other players to complete missions and earn rewards.
The game also features a leaderboard system, where players can compare their scores and progress with other players. Additionally, the game’s developers, IO Interactive, have released a variety of online challenges and events, where players can participate and compete with other players. While the game does not have a traditional multiplayer mode, the online features and modes provide a fun and competitive way for players to interact with each other.
Is Hitman suitable for all ages?
Hitman is rated M for Mature by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB), which means it is not suitable for all ages. The game features a variety of mature themes, including violence, blood, and strong language. The game’s storyline also deals with mature topics, such as assassination and murder.
While the game’s developers, IO Interactive, have taken steps to reduce the level of graphic violence and gore, the game is still not suitable for younger players. Parents and guardians are advised to review the game’s content and make an informed decision about whether it is suitable for their child. Additionally, the game’s online features and modes may expose players to user-generated content that is not suitable for all ages.
Can I play Hitman on multiple platforms?
Yes, Hitman is available on multiple platforms, including PC, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One. The game is also available on Google Stadia, a cloud-based gaming platform. Players can purchase the game on their preferred platform and play it without any issues.
It’s worth noting that the game’s developers, IO Interactive, have implemented a variety of features to allow players to play the game across multiple platforms. For example, players can use the game’s cloud saves feature to access their game saves from any platform, allowing them to play the game on multiple devices. Additionally, the game’s online features and modes are available across all platforms, allowing players to interact with each other regardless of the platform they are playing on.
Is Hitman a part of a larger franchise?
Yes, Hitman is part of a larger franchise that includes multiple games, novels, and other media. The franchise follows the adventures of Agent 47, a highly trained assassin, as he completes missions and eliminates targets. The franchise includes multiple games, including Hitman: Codename 47, Hitman 2: Silent Assassin, and Hitman: Absolution.
The franchise also includes a variety of novels and comics, which explore the game’s storyline and characters in more depth. Additionally, the franchise has been adapted into a feature film, which was released in 2007. The game’s developers, IO Interactive, have also released a variety of spin-off games and content, including Hitman: Sniper and Hitman: Go.