It's been a while since I got my copy of the newest installment of the Hitman franchise. But, in light of what happened in Connecticut, around the time I finished the story of the game, I didn't think it would have been necessary to talk about it for a while. I plan on discussing violence in fictional media in another blog, but I just want to geek out right now.
While shooting games are controversial right now, many people think of Call of Duty when they talk about violent games these days. Hitman, however, is more of a cerebral game. Each mission is a puzzle, and if there is a time where you have to unload with a gun, you're probably better off restarting that mission. The goal isn't shooting up everyone, but delicately getting the job done, and causing as little disturbance as possible. And, for the most part, almost every mission involves a target that is not a "soldier like you" or "some Joe on the street." The targets are usually people you don't feel bad about dropping a chandelier upon, poisoning, car-bombing, or sniping from a far distance with a silenced Dragunov; corrupt cops, sleazy politicians, mob top-dogs, war profiteers, and sex fiends; the boils under society's skin.
I was hoping for a combination of good storyline and good gameplay, and it didn't disappoint. The story, itself has little in the way of actual missions. It's chapters in a story that involves murder, mayhem, genetic tampering, superweapon laboratories, and a heartwarming bond between a foster parent and a young girl - the scene where he's carrying the girl out of the invaded orphanage and saying "Don't worry, I won't let anyone hurt you," was an "Awwww!" moment. So, it's all about a cross-country ass-whoopin' delivered at the hands of 47. I won't get into the story any more, but it kicks ass.
The downloadable content, thus far, is great. Although it is used for weapons in contract mode only. Contracts are mini-quests that players online can create, and they happen in stages pulled from areas in the main storyline. You earn money to unlock more weapons and upgrades. I have my sniper rifle maxed out with the best silencer I can get, so I'm styling right now.
