Mini Review: Hitman: Absolution (Switch)

Hitman: Absolution is commonly seen as the ‘outlier’ of the franchise due to its emphasis on cinematic narrative rather than player autonomy. This perception still holds true with this new launch on Switch from Feral Interactive; however, now that the original creator IO Interactive has steered the course with the remarkable World of Assassination trilogy, it becomes significantly simpler to revisit Absolution and truly value it for what it represents – somewhat akin to Resident Evil 6.

Does this imply it’s flawless? No, far from it. Yet, it’s an intriguing diversion for Agent 47 that continues to deliver ample enjoyment while establishing groundwork for future games, including the forthcoming 007 First Light.

Like earlier installments, Absolution necessitates that you identify your targets and eliminate them with minimal commotion (while continuously evading the po-po). Achieving a high stealth score is the main objective, but if you wish to charge in with guns blazing, that’s available. Alternatively, clever little ‘accidents’ often prove to be the best strategy, and you can initiate Instinct Mode to highlight foes, items, and traps to assist in planning your approach.

Disguises enable you to access areas that might otherwise be prohibited, yet many of the guards can see through your costumes (not literally, cheeky) and uncover your true persona. Instinct Mode is useful here as well, so by holding down ‘R’ while in an adversary’s line of sight, you can become subtle enough to pass unnoticed.

Unlike World of Assassination, Instinct Mode is limited. Excessive reliance on it will exhaust your resources. Eliminating guards and fulfilling challenges will restore it, but I recommend employing it sparingly and instead trusting your instincts to identify opportunities; it’s far more enjoyable that way.

Levels are generally smaller and more condensed than what you may be accustomed to. IO Interactive places greater emphasis on delivering a coherent narrative, which is evident in the layout. In other Hitman games, you’d spend considerable time meandering in the open and blending into your environment, but in Absolution, stealthy maneuvering and taking cover is typically more advisable owing to the close-quarters settings.

This exasperated many individuals back in 2012, and the game faced considerable criticism for its overarching linearity compared to previous titles. This aspect remains unchanged, but there’s still a fair amount of choices available when determining how to tackle your targets. Understand what you are diving into, and you’ll have an enjoyable experience.

Performance aligns with my expectations. You’re looking at 30fps with a few minor stutters here and there, particularly in crowded areas. Textures and assets have also been considerably downgraded, yet it remains a visually appealing game, and the accompanying soundtrack is consistently excellent.

Feral has guaranteed a complimentary Switch 2 upgrade in 2026 along with an extra Contracts Mode, so if you don’t mind waiting until then, feel free to do so. However, Hitman: Absolution on Switch is solid, flaws and all.