Do You Need to Play Hitman: Absolution Before Hitman (2016)?
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The simple answer is no, you absolutely do not need to play Hitman: Absolution before playing Hitman (2016). While Absolution does exist within the overall Hitman timeline, the 2016 reboot, simply titled “Hitman,” functions as a fresh start, both narratively and mechanically, for the franchise. Jumping into Hitman (2016) without any prior knowledge of the series, including Absolution, will not hinder your experience in any meaningful way.
Why Absolution Isn’t Essential
The Hitman series, at its core, has always been more about isolated contracts and intricate level design than a deeply interwoven overarching narrative. While there are recurring characters and loose threads that connect some games, each entry generally stands on its own. Absolution, released in 2012, is arguably the outlier in this regard. It features a more focused and linear story, diverging from the open-ended sandbox gameplay that defines the best Hitman titles.
The 2016 reboot acknowledged this shift in direction and intentionally steered the series back to its roots. Hitman (2016), and its subsequent sequels Hitman 2 and Hitman 3 (collectively known as the World of Assassination trilogy), prioritize player freedom, intricate level design, and replayability. The narrative, while present, takes a backseat to the emergent gameplay opportunities that arise from exploring each meticulously crafted location.
Story vs. Gameplay: What Matters in Hitman
Even if you were deeply invested in the Hitman narrative, Absolution’s story doesn’t have a significant impact on the events of Hitman (2016) and beyond. The game resolves Agent 47’s personal storyline from Blood Money and introduces a new character, Victoria. However, Victoria’s role is largely concluded within Absolution, and the 2016 reboot returns Agent 47 and Diana Burnwood to their established roles within the ICA.
The most compelling reasons to play any Hitman game are the innovative gameplay mechanics, the freedom to approach contracts in countless ways, and the satisfaction of executing a flawlessly planned assassination. Absolution offers a different kind of Hitman experience, one that leans more into stealth action and a pre-defined narrative. While it has its merits and fans, it’s not essential for understanding or enjoying the more recent entries in the series. If you are interested in learning how games can offer deep learning opportunities, visit GamesLearningSociety.org.
Starting Your Hitman Journey
If you’re new to the Hitman franchise, Hitman (2016), Hitman 2, or Hitman 3 (World of Assassination) are all excellent starting points. They provide a modern, accessible, and highly replayable experience that captures the essence of what makes Hitman so unique. You can even access levels from Hitman (2016) and Hitman 2 within Hitman 3, creating a unified experience across all three games. So, you don’t need to worry about playing the games in any particular order.
FAQs: Your Hitman Questions Answered
1. Is Hitman Absolution connected to Hitman (2016)?
Yes, it is loosely connected. However, Hitman (2016) acts as a soft reboot, largely ignoring the specific plot points of Absolution. Recurring characters are present, but their past experiences in Absolution don’t significantly influence the narrative of the newer games.
2. Do I need to play any previous Hitman games before Hitman (2016)?
No, absolutely not. Hitman (2016) is designed to be a fresh starting point for the series. You don’t need any prior knowledge to enjoy it.
3. Is the story important in the Hitman games?
The story is present, but it’s not the primary focus. The emphasis is on the emergent gameplay and the freedom to approach contracts in creative ways.
4. Should I play Hitman 1, 2, or 3 first?
You can start with any of them. Many recommend starting with Hitman (2016) or Hitman 3 (World of Assassination) as they offer the most modern gameplay and features. Hitman 3 gives access to all the levels of previous versions.
5. Are Hitman 1, 2, and 3 connected?
Yes, they form the World of Assassination trilogy and share a continuing storyline. However, each game can be enjoyed independently.
6. Does Hitman 3 include all missions from Hitman 1 and 2?
Yes, through the Access Pass system, owners of Hitman 3 can access and play all the levels from Hitman 1 and Hitman 2 within Hitman 3.
7. Is Hitman: Absolution the first Hitman game?
No, Hitman: Codename 47 was the first game in the series. Hitman: Absolution is the fifth installment.
8. Why is Hitman: Absolution sometimes disliked by fans?
Some fans disliked its more linear story, restrictive disguise system, and overall shift away from the sandbox gameplay of previous Hitman titles.
9. Is Hitman: Absolution worth playing?
That depends on your preferences. If you enjoy stealth action games with a strong narrative focus, you might enjoy it. However, if you prefer the open-ended gameplay of the classic Hitman games, you might find it disappointing.
10. What makes the World of Assassination trilogy (Hitman 1, 2, and 3) so good?
The intricate level design, player freedom, replayability, and satisfying assassination gameplay are the key factors.
11. Can I skip Hitman 1 and 2 and just play Hitman 3?
Yes, you can. Hitman 3 allows you to access all the levels from the previous two games. If you don’t own the earlier games you may be able to purchase Access Passes.
12. Is Hitman 1 the same as Hitman 2?
No. Hitman 2 continues the story and introduces new locations and gameplay mechanics. However, Hitman 2’s core gameplay is very similar to Hitman (2016).
13. Is Hitman Blood Money better than Absolution?
Many fans prefer Blood Money for its open-ended missions, darker humor, and classic Hitman gameplay. Absolution is generally more stealthy and less comical.
14. What are some tips for getting into the Hitman series?
Start with Hitman (2016), Hitman 2, or Hitman 3. Focus on exploring the levels, experimenting with different approaches, and learning the mechanics. Don’t be afraid to fail and try again.
15. How does Hitman encourage learning and problem-solving?
The Games Learning Society could explore how Hitman’s complex environments and diverse gameplay options promote critical thinking, planning, and adaptation. Players must analyze situations, identify opportunities, and execute plans effectively, fostering valuable cognitive skills.