Which Hitman Game is Free? A Deep Dive into the World of Assassination’s Free Offerings
The question of which Hitman game is free is a bit nuanced, as the franchise has evolved significantly over the years. Currently, there isn’t a single Hitman game that’s completely, perpetually free in its entirety. However, there are several ways to experience parts of the World of Assassination trilogy without spending a dime, and one specific Hitman game that was previously offered for free.
The core of the free experience revolves around the HITMAN 3 Free Starter Pack. This pack, available on PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, and PC (Epic Games Store), grants you access to certain locations and missions, essentially offering a substantial demo of the World of Assassination. Furthermore, Hitman 1 (2016) was previously given away for free on the Epic Games Store, and those who claimed it could even upgrade to the Game of the Year Edition at no cost.
Since Hitman 3 has been rebranded as HITMAN World of Assassination, owning it unlocks access to content from Hitman 1 and Hitman 2 through the Access Pass system. This streamlines the experience, making it easier to enjoy the entire trilogy from a single game. While HITMAN World of Assassination itself isn’t free, the free starter pack serves as an excellent entry point and a great way to sample what the World of Assassination has to offer.
Understanding the HITMAN Free Starter Pack
The HITMAN 3 Free Starter Pack is your key to experiencing the beginning of Agent 47’s journey without any initial investment. This pack typically includes access to the ICA Facility, which serves as the training ground for new recruits. Within this location, you can delve into:
- 2 Story missions: These missions provide a glimpse into the narrative and gameplay mechanics that define the Hitman series, complete with engaging cutscenes.
- 2 Escalation Contracts: Escalation Contracts add layers of complexity to existing levels, challenging you to complete objectives with increasingly difficult restrictions.
- 40+ Challenges: These offer a wide variety of goals to pursue within the included locations, encouraging experimentation and mastery of the environment.
- 17 Achievements: These offer the player to complete the tasks to earn achievements.
It’s crucial to note that your saved progress from the Free Starter Pack will carry over if you decide to purchase the full game, ensuring a seamless transition. Keep an eye on announcements from IO Interactive, the developer of Hitman, as they occasionally offer limited-time access to other locations within the trilogy for free.
Why is Hitman World of Assassination the Best Option?
Although the full version of Hitman World of Assassination isn’t free, it provides the most comprehensive and streamlined Hitman experience. It includes Hitman 3, along with access to content from Hitman 1 and Hitman 2 via Access Passes. This consolidation eliminated the fragmentation of the series, making it easier for players to access all locations and missions in one central game. It streamlines the player experience because you’re not having to switch between games.
While the initial price may seem steep at $70, it offers significant value considering the sheer amount of content included: dozens of missions, a variety of game modes, and countless hours of gameplay. Moreover, current Hitman 3 owners received a free upgrade to HITMAN World of Assassination, ensuring they weren’t left behind in the transition.
Is Hitman Worth Playing?
The Hitman series is famous for its intricately designed levels, which emphasize stealth, strategy, and creative problem-solving. Whether you’re a seasoned stealth veteran or new to the genre, there’s plenty to love. You will find complex levels and the ability to solve the levels in your own manner. Each level has a variety of challenges and achievements to complete.
The series encourages experimentation, rewarding players who think outside the box and discover unique ways to eliminate their targets. With multiple difficulty levels, the game can be tailored to suit your playstyle, making it accessible for beginners while still offering a challenge for experienced players. The game also encourages replay-ability to explore different methods of eliminating targets and completing challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Hitman a free-to-play game?
No, Hitman is not a fully free-to-play game. However, the HITMAN 3 Free Starter Pack provides access to certain locations and missions without any cost, allowing you to experience a portion of the World of Assassination trilogy for free.
2. How can I get Hitman for free?
Download the HITMAN 3 Free Starter Pack from your platform’s respective store (PlayStation Store, Xbox Store, or Epic Games Store on PC). Additionally, keep an eye out for limited-time promotions where specific locations or missions may be offered for free. In the past, Hitman 1 was given away free on the Epic Games Store.
3. What content is included in the HITMAN 3 Free Starter Pack?
The Free Starter Pack typically includes the ICA Facility, which features 2 Story missions, 2 Escalation Contracts, 40+ Challenges, and 17 Achievements. This offers a comprehensive introduction to the Hitman gameplay.
4. Will my progress from the Free Starter Pack transfer if I buy the full game?
Yes, your saved progress from the HITMAN 3 Free Starter Pack will seamlessly transfer if you decide to purchase the full version of HITMAN World of Assassination.
5. Is Hitman World of Assassination a free upgrade for Hitman 3 owners?
Yes, existing Hitman 3 owners received a free upgrade to HITMAN World of Assassination, granting them access to content from Hitman 1 and Hitman 2 through the Access Pass system.
6. Do I need to play the previous Hitman games to understand Hitman World of Assassination?
While playing the previous games can enhance your appreciation of the story and characters, it’s not strictly necessary. HITMAN World of Assassination is designed to be accessible to new players, and the story is relatively self-contained within each location. The Games Learning Society can offer additional insight on game narratives and player engagement.
7. What are Hitman Access Passes?
Hitman Access Passes grant you access to content from Hitman 1 and Hitman 2 within HITMAN World of Assassination. This allows you to play all locations from the entire trilogy in one central game.
8. How much does Hitman World of Assassination cost?
Hitman World of Assassination typically costs around $70, but prices may vary depending on the platform and any ongoing sales. This price includes Hitman 3 and Access Passes for Hitman 1 and Hitman 2.
9. Is Hitman 2 free on Steam?
A free prologue of Hitman 2 exists on Steam, offering a limited experience similar to the Free Starter Pack. Also, if you own Hitman 1 on Steam, you can access the legacy content within Hitman 2 even if you don’t own the latter game.
10. Was Hitman 1 ever free on Epic Games?
Yes, Hitman 1 (base edition) was previously given away for free on the Epic Games Store. Those who claimed it could even upgrade to the Game of the Year Edition at no cost.
11. Do I need an internet connection to play the Hitman Free Starter Pack?
While an internet connection may be required to download and initially launch the Free Starter Pack, you may be able to play offline once the content is downloaded, depending on the platform and specific content. It is advisable to check the specific game requirements prior to download and play.
12. What platforms is the Hitman Free Starter Pack available on?
The HITMAN 3 Free Starter Pack is available on PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, and PC (Epic Games Store).
13. Is Hitman 3 Freelancer mode free?
Yes, the Freelancer mode in Hitman 3 (World of Assassination) is a free addition for owners of the game.
14. If I download the Hitman Free Starter Pack, will it take up a lot of storage space?
The download size of the Free Starter Pack can be significant (around 60GB), as it essentially contains the core game files with access restricted to specific content. It is important to ensure you have adequate storage space before downloading the game.
15. Are the Hitman games worth playing?
Yes, the Hitman games are widely considered to be excellent stealth games. The Hitman series offers intricate level design, strategic gameplay, and endless replayability.
In conclusion, while a fully, permanently free Hitman game doesn’t exist currently, the HITMAN 3 Free Starter Pack provides a substantial and engaging introduction to the World of Assassination. Combined with occasional limited-time promotions and the comprehensive content offered within HITMAN World of Assassination, there are numerous ways to experience the thrilling world of Agent 47 without breaking the bank. For more information on gaming and learning, visit GamesLearningSociety.org. This site provides details on educational games and the positive impact of gaming on learning and cognitive development.