Decoding the Endings of Hitman 3: A Comprehensive Guide

Hitman 3, the thrilling conclusion to the World of Assassination trilogy, offers not one, not two, but three distinct endings. While two endings are readily available based on your immediate choices during the final confrontation, the elusive third ending requires a specific, less obvious action to unlock, providing a unique and surprising conclusion to Agent 47’s journey.

Unveiling the Three Endings of Hitman 3

The ending of Hitman 3 hinges on your interaction with Arthur Edwards, The Constant, the primary antagonist of the trilogy. After navigating a series of intense missions and unraveling a complex web of conspiracies, Agent 47 finally corners Edwards. At this pivotal moment, you’re presented with two apparent choices:

• Ending 1: Eliminating The Constant: This is the most straightforward and arguably the most expected ending. Agent 47 can simply kill Edwards, fulfilling his role as an assassin and bringing an end to Providence’s influence. This ending is clean, decisive, and reflects the core gameplay loop of the Hitman series.

• Ending 2: Erasing The Constant’s Memory: The Constant possesses a serum that can wipe memories. Agent 47 can use this serum on Edwards, effectively neutralizing him as a threat by erasing his knowledge and influence. This ending is more nuanced, offering a sense of control and potentially hinting at a future where Edwards is no longer a danger.

• Ending 3: The Secret Ending: Self-Inflicted Amnesia: This is the hidden gem. Instead of using the serum on Edwards, Agent 47 can inject himself with it. To trigger this option, you must pick up the serum but NOT administer it immediately. You need to hold onto the serum for approximately one minute while Edwards tries to goad you into injecting him or yourself. If you wait long enough, Agent 47 will ultimately inject himself. This results in Agent 47 losing his memories, turning him back into a blank slate and a tool for others to use. This ending paints a bleak picture, undoing the personal growth and autonomy Agent 47 gained throughout the trilogy.

The secret ending is especially interesting from a narrative standpoint and ties into some of the core themes of the trilogy. It explores the idea of agency, identity, and the consequences of choosing to relinquish control over one’s own destiny. It’s a risky choice for Agent 47, but it undeniably provides a compelling alternative to the more conventional endings.

Beyond the Endings: Implications and Resolutions

Regardless of which ending you choose, the game provides closure for several key characters and plot threads. Diana Burnwood’s role is resolved, often involving a complex mix of loyalty, betrayal, and ultimate reconciliation. The future of the ICA (International Contract Agency) and Agent 47’s place within it are also addressed. These narrative threads tie together to create a satisfying conclusion to the overall narrative of the World of Assassination trilogy.

Hitman 3: More Than Just Assassination

What’s truly fascinating about Hitman 3 is how it elevates the series beyond simple assassination contracts. The branching narrative, even in the final moments, demonstrates a commitment to player choice and its impact on the story. The presence of the secret ending encourages exploration and experimentation, rewarding players who delve deeper into the game’s mechanics and narrative possibilities. This contributes to the game’s overall replayability and its lasting appeal among fans of the stealth-action genre. If you are interested in the educational aspects of games, you can visit the Games Learning Society website.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What happens after the “good” ending in Hitman 3?

There isn’t a definitively “good” ending, as each ending has different implications. However, the ending where Agent 47 eliminates The Constant is usually considered more positive than the ending where he injects himself. After Edwards’ death, Diana takes control of Providence, but the organization is essentially dissolved.

2. How do you get the “best” ending in Hitman 3?

Again, there’s no single “best” ending. It depends on your interpretation and what you consider to be the most satisfying conclusion for Agent 47. Many consider the ending where 47 eliminates The Constant to be the most favorable, as it preserves his autonomy and resolves the primary conflict of the trilogy.

3. Why does Diana betray 47 in Hitman 3 (initially)?

Diana’s apparent betrayal is revealed to be a ruse. She feigns disloyalty to manipulate events and ultimately achieve her own goals, which align with Agent 47’s in the long run. This calculated maneuver allows her to dismantle Providence from the inside.

4. Does Diana forgive Agent 47 for killing her parents?

Yes, Diana does forgive Agent 47. Despite learning that he was responsible for her parents’ death, their bond and shared history outweigh the pain. She understands that he was merely a tool at the time and recognizes the value of their partnership.

5. What happens if Agent 47 injects himself with the serum?

If Agent 47 injects himself, he loses all his memories. This effectively resets him to his pre-Hitman: Codename 47 state, turning him back into a programmable assassin, which many consider to be a bittersweet ending. The loss of memory and identity can be perceived negatively, as this is a major setback for the character.

6. Is Agent 47 a clone?

Yes, Agent 47 is a clone. He was created in a lab by Dr. Otto Wolfgang Ort-Meyer, along with other clones like Subject 6 (Lucas Grey). His genetic makeup is designed for peak physical and mental performance, making him an exceptional assassin.

7. How old is Agent 47 in Hitman 3?

Based on his established birthdate, Agent 47 is approximately 57 years old during the events of Hitman 3. While this age might seem surprising, given his agility and physical capabilities, it’s a testament to his genetically engineered design.

8. Will there be a Hitman 4?

While Io Interactive hasn’t officially announced Hitman 4, they have indicated that the Hitman franchise is not concluding anytime soon. Future projects may explore different aspects of the Hitman universe or even introduce new characters and storylines.

9. What is Providence in Hitman 3?

Providence is a shadowy organization pulling the strings from behind the scenes, manipulating global events for their own benefit. They are the primary antagonists throughout the World of Assassination trilogy, and Agent 47 and Diana work to dismantle them.

10. Why did Agent 47 turn against the ICA?

Agent 47 initially betrayed the ICA to align with Lucas Grey, who revealed the truth about their shared past and the machinations of Providence. Working with Grey allowed 47 to strike at the heart of Providence and dismantle its influence.

11. Does Hitman 3 include levels from previous Hitman games?

With the “Hitman World of Assassination” update, Hitman 3 effectively became a hub for the entire trilogy. Players who own Hitman 3 can access levels from Hitman 1 and Hitman 2 through the Access Pass system, creating a unified gameplay experience.

12. Is Hitman 3 appropriate for children?

Hitman 3 is rated M for Mature due to its violence, blood, and language. While the game might not be excessively graphic, the mature themes and violent content make it unsuitable for younger audiences.

13. What is the barcode on Agent 47’s head?

The barcode tattoo on Agent 47’s head serves as his identification and grants him access to restricted areas within the facility where he was created. It also holds symbolic significance, representing his status as a product of genetic engineering.

14. What happens to the ICA after Hitman 3?

After the events of Hitman 3, the ICA is effectively dismantled. Diana takes control and seemingly dissolves the agency. She and Agent 47 continue their work independently.

15. Where can I learn more about the educational benefits of gaming?

For further exploration of the educational aspects of video games and their impact on learning, visit the GamesLearningSociety.org website for insightful research and resources.

Hitman 3 is not just a game; it’s a complex narrative tapestry woven with themes of identity, betrayal, and redemption. The three distinct endings offer players the freedom to shape Agent 47’s destiny and provide a satisfying conclusion to the World of Assassination trilogy. The secret ending, in particular, highlights the game’s depth and encourages players to think critically about the choices they make and their consequences.