Does Square Enix still own Hitman?
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Square Enix no longer owns the Hitman franchise, as IO Interactive, the developer of the series, gained full rights to the stealth-action IP after parting ways with Square Enix earlier this year. The studio now has complete ownership of the Hitman franchise, but lost the right to make Kane & Lynch sequels.
Introduction to Hitman Ownership
The Hitman series has undergone significant changes in recent years, particularly with regards to its ownership. To understand the current state of the franchise, it’s essential to delve into its history and the factors that have contributed to its evolution.
History of Hitman
The Hitman series was created by IO Interactive, a Danish game development company. The first Hitman game was released in 2000, and since then, the series has grown to include several mainline titles, spin-offs, and mobile games. Square Enix acquired IO Interactive in 2009, but the two companies parted ways in 2021, resulting in IO Interactive gaining full ownership of the Hitman franchise.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What company owns Hitman 3?
IO Interactive is the developer and publisher of Hitman 3, a 2021 stealth game that is part of the World of Assassination trilogy.
2. Are they still making Hitman games?
IO Interactive plans to continue evolving the World of Assassination trilogy, but the studio has shifted its primary focus to its upcoming James Bond project, which means that the next major Hitman entry may not be released anytime soon.
3. Why is there no Hitman 4?
IO Interactive has released its past four main Hitman titles two years apart, but the developer has recently shifted focus to a brand-new franchise, Project 007, which is a James Bond game.
4. Did EA make Hitman?
No, EA did not develop the Hitman series. IO Interactive, a Danish company, has developed all the mainline Hitman games.
5. Why was EA sued?
EA was sued in 2009 by former UCLA basketball player Ed O’Bannon, who alleged that an EA Sports title used his likeness without first acquiring his permission.
6. Why was Hitman banned?
Hitman: Absolution was banned in Saudi Arabia due to unspecified violent content after a 12-year-old boy and a 13-year-old girl had allegedly committed suicide after participating in an online “Blue Whale” challenge.
7. Is Agent 47 a human?
Agent 47 is a cloned human designed to be genetically superior to the average human, but he is also designed to blend in like most agents of espionage.
8. Is Hitman 1 no longer available?
Yes, Hitman 1 is no longer available as a standalone game, as it has been delisted and is now part of the Hitman World of Assassination package.
9. What is the new Hitman 2023?
The new Hitman content for 2023 includes a brand-new Elusive Target mission for HITMAN World of Assassination featuring international superstar DJ Dimitri Vegas.
10. Did Hitman 3 sell well?
Yes, Hitman 3 managed to subvert expectations and over-perform in sales within its first year, with a budget of about $22.5 million.
11. Why is Hitman 3 $70?
Hitman 3 is now part of the Hitman: World of Assassination package, which costs $70 and includes Hitman 1 and Hitman 2.
12. Why was Hitman 3 renamed?
Hitman 3 was renamed to Hitman: World of Assassination to better reflect the way players engage with Agent 47’s murderous misadventures.
13. Has Agent 47 smiled?
Yes, Agent 47 has smiled or smirked a couple of times in the Hitman series.
14. What is Agent 47’s IQ?
Agent 47’s IQ is estimated to be at least 175, given his genetically modified abilities and acute knowledge of various situations.
15. Should I let my 13-year-old play Hitman?
No, Hitman 3 is rated 18 and above by PEGI and Mature 17+ by the ESRB, making it unsuitable for children under the age of 18 due to strong violence and use of strong language.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Square Enix no longer owns the Hitman franchise, as IO Interactive has gained full rights to the stealth-action IP. The Hitman series continues to evolve, with new content and projects in development, including a James Bond game. As the gaming industry continues to shift and change, the Hitman franchise remains a beloved and iconic part of gaming culture.