DCEmu Homebrew, Hacking, Emulation, Gaming and Theme Park News. - The Hitman Franchise

Hitman is one of the most popular stealth action video game series of all time. It is known best for its heavy emphasis on executing the perfect hit and sandbox approach to stealth gameplay.

In all of the Hitman instalments, players have a choice from a variety of weapons, items and tools in order to get as close to their intended target without being noticed. You have the ability to disguise your character in a large selection of outfits, ranging from classic suits to chicken costumes, in order to avoid being detected by your enemies. The franchise has been in existence for over 20 years and still managed, for the most part, to retain it original style. This is down to the fact that the franchise is still overseen by the original developers who have remained as loyal to their fan base as they have to the game. It has even transcended the stealth game industry in the form of two motion pictures and a Hitman based slot machine featured on the best online casino in the UK.

How Did it All Begin?

The first Hitman release came way back in 2000 in the form of Hitman: Codename 47. It was the brainchild of two Danish video game developers who joined forces in 1998 to form IO Interactive. It was a PC exclusive title and was quickly recognised as on of the most unique stealth action games in the gaming industry.

The Best of Both Worlds

In Hitman: Codename 47, the main character transformed from a simple hired gun into a professional killer clone, dressed in a fitted black suit and blood red tie, with a signature bar code on the back of his head. Agent 47 was the result of a cloning experimentation who, after escaping the cloning facility with the help of his creator, is issued with and executed hits on those who were behind his original commission. With each subsequent release, the complexity of the overall storyline deepens, allowing for an emotional connection to grow between the player and Agent 47. The character development is on par with a Hollywood blockbuster; we get to realise, first-hand, the motivations behind the characters actions, as well as his creator, who issues him with his hits.

When it comes to gameplay, the Hitman franchise is arguably one of the most ambitious projects in video game history. With seven releases and two mobile games, the Hitman series has maintained the perfect balance between creating new and exiting titles and sticking to what it does best. The gameplay is clearly the developers primary focus and they definitely do not fail in that regard. The stealth mechanics approve in tandem with the introduction of more complex objectives. There is a steady introduction of more detailed locations, new weapons, remastered missions, and refined movement controls that cater for a re-playability that is rivaled by few. Overall, the Hitman games allow for one of the most cohesive and connected experiences in the gaming industry.

The Big Screen

So popular was the video game series that a film adaptation of the game was released in 2007, in the form of the film Hitman. This was followed up by the 2015 film Hitman: Agent 47. While the motion pictures were met with mixed review, with some critics and fans believing the films to be cliché and generic, the fact that the movies exist is testament to the popularity of the character.

The Big Hit

One departure from the game that definable did not disappoint fans came in the form of the 2008 Hitman slot machine. The 5 reel, 15 payline slot machine is based on the video game and film series, and does not fail to match the high octane nature of the original franchise. The slots beautifully pay homage to the paraphernalia of the video game series, featuring the main character in his trademark suit, the instantly recognisable insignia, as well as spinners with syringe, silver pistol and a sniper rifle symbols on full show. This slot machine is a must for all Hitman fans looking to test their nerves alongside Agent 47 himself!