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Hitman: Absolution – A Flawed But Interesting Detour on Switch

Feral interactive’s recent Switch eShop release of Hitman: Absolution arrives with a reputation as ⁣the outlier in the Hitman series. Originally released in 2012, it was⁣ often criticized for prioritizing ​a⁤ cinematic narrative over the series’ hallmark of open-ended player freedom. Tho, with the success of IO Interactive’s World of Assassination trilogy, a ​retrospective look at Absolution reveals a⁢ unique entry with its ‌own ‍merits, much like a re-evaluation of Resident ⁢Evil 6.

While not​ a perfect experience,Hitman: Absolution offers a compelling,if diffrent,take on the Agent 47 formula.It serves as a fascinating step ‌in the evolution of the series, laying groundwork for future titles, including the upcoming 007 First Light.

Gameplay revolves around identifying and eliminating targets with a‌ focus on stealth.⁤ Players are ⁣encouraged to​ achieve a high stealth rating, though direct confrontation is also viable. Utilizing environmental “accidents” remains ‍a key tactic, and the game features ⁣Instinct Mode – activated by holding ‘R’ – which highlights⁢ enemies, items, and potential traps to aid​ in planning.

Disguises allow ⁤access ⁤to restricted areas, but‌ guards are adept at recognizing imposters. Instinct ‌Mode can definitely help bypass suspicion, but its use is limited by a finite resource that is⁤ replenished by eliminating ⁣guards and completing challenges.The game encourages ⁢players to rely⁢ on their own observation skills ‌rather than overusing Instinct Mode for a more engaging experience.

Compared to later Hitman games, Absolution features ⁤smaller, more‍ focused levels. This reflects the increased emphasis ⁣on storytelling. Players ⁤will find themselves relying more on cover‍ and close-quarters maneuvering than the open-world blending seen in other entries. This linearity was a point of contention upon the game’s initial release, but the game still provides multiple approaches to target elimination.

The ‌Switch version ‌of hitman: Absolution runs at 30fps with occasional performance dips, notably‌ in​ crowded areas.Visuals have been scaled‌ back, but the game ⁤remains aesthetically pleasing, complemented by a consistently strong musical score.

Feral ⁣Interactive has announced a free upgrade for the‌ upcoming Switch 2 console in 2026, which will include an additional Contracts Mode. However,‌ Hitman: Absolution ⁢ on​ the current Switch is a solid, if ⁢imperfect, addition to the Hitman library.