WhileHitmanhas carried forward the essential storyline in its games, 2016’sHitmanis the beginning of the “World of Assassination” trilogy, which is a soft reboot of the franchise. For this reason, the first four games are seen as the original series, whileAbsolutionis considered a standalone offering.
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WithHitman 3on the horizon, it’s worth a look at the major differences in the original and reboot series. Both of these have delivered the goods when required. However, certain things have been done much better on either side. That said, here are five ways the original is better, and five areas in which the reboot shines.
10Original: The Soundtrack
Few can forget the impact that “Ave Maria” has onHitmanfans. The song is forever associated with the series, considered as the trademark of the original games. It’s one of many from the soundtrack, which sets the stage for every mission.
If a level is supposed tocarry a scary theme,then the chilling environment is complemented by the music. Likewise, any thrilling sequences are also adrenaline-pumping due to the soundtrack. The reboot series remains rather bland in this area. There’s nothing to separate one scene from the next where the uniqueness of the music is concerned.
9Reboot: A World Of Content
The reboot is where you may truly make full use of allplaystyles. The levels are bursting with content, all from weapon choices to tactics. There are also many hidden secrets to be uncovered, and it’s always fun to locate something on your own.
Using different vantage points or weapons can totally change the course of the game. And this comes down to the content available, which allows for the player to get creative in their playthrough.
8Original: The Overarching Storyline
The first fourHitmangames all have one storyline. This allows for the plot to kill 47 to be engaging, as the motives of the antagonists slowly become apparent and interesting. Theoriginal games’ story brings targetsthat one can even sympathize with.
Several twists occur, such as Diana’s “betrayal” and eventual rescue of 47. This storyline also contextualizes 47’s missions in such a way that they don’t just come across as random kills. The reboot does have an overarching story as well, but it’s far too slow-paced to truly capture the interest of players.
7Reboot: Expansive Environments
NoHitmanfan can forget the feeling of amazement when the 2016 game brought withthe sandbox-style missions.These levels are incredible due to their endless possibilities. Gamers can potentially spend hours simply roaming the area and learning how the environment works.
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The original games can’t boast this level of freedom. Here, the intent is mainly to usethe map to finish the mission. Meanwhile, the reboot places the backdrop as the main hook for players. The enormous depth to be found here makes every mission worth a shot.
6Original: Characterization For 47
If one is to only play the reboot series, then 47 seems like a ratherone-note character.There’s not much to know about him unless you try out the original games. Here, 47’s past, who his biological parents are, and how his loyalty to the ICA works are shown.
There are also flashes of his innate personality, such as his liking for his pet bird, along with the relationship he and Diana have. It’s due to this characterization that fans appreciate 47 for his placement within the story.
5Reboot: Abundance Of Side Missions
Helping the series solidify itself amongthe best spy gamesare the abundant side missions. These are only in the reboot games, though, since the original treats side missions as Easter eggs for the most part.
These extra levels bring challenging conditions, new techniques, and several more hours to play. What’s more, there are dozens within each map, making them feel like a whole game on their own. This greatly contrasts with the original games, where finishing the story pretty much means the conclusion of gameplay as well.
4Original: Thematic Levels
There’s nothing to suggest where the story is going when one ventures into the missions of the reboot series. Although they’re vast and impressive, they seem similar in that 47 is dropped in one location and has to finish his target.
The original games’ levels all carry unique themes. There’s a story apparent from the targets to be taken out, and the backdrop reflects this. Horror-based locations look intense and thrilling, parties and events carry that celebratory theme, and incognito-based ones are low-key, requiring smart tactics. This allowsthese levels to stand outin a way that makes them last in memory.
3Reboot: Polished A.I. Mechanics
The main reason why the reboot games feel like a whole world of their own is because of the realistic A.I. While there are still some nonsensical things, the in-game characters are much smarter, giving off a level of authenticity.
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The original ones haven’t aged well in this regard since the A.I. is purely ridiculous. Agent 47 can kill someone, run off, then return to the area and have nobody suspect him. There are also unique traits among certain characters in the reboot. Taking advantage of these unlocks new ways to engage the gameplay.
2Original: Larger Variety Of Levels
The uniqueness of the original games’ levels is even more appealing when one considers how many there are. They might be smaller in length and scale, but they do grant a refresh in gameplay by dropping the player in a wholly different environment.
The drawback of the reboot series is that, should a certain location not appeal to a player, the game’s quality goes down since there are very few maps to explore. In any case, having more levels to play through is always the preferable option for gamers.
1Reboot: Replay Potential
There are fans who’ve logged in hundreds of hours of gameplay for the reboot series. These range from repeat plays of the story, side missions, and those who want to perfect their craft and reach the top rankings in “Silent Assassin” ratings.
Add to that the expansive maps and the many opportunities they bring make for a perfect setting for gamers to immerse themselves in. The original games are great in level design, but they do lack that all-important replay value that has players coming back for repeated playthroughs.
