Finished the game this evening. Overall, I really enjoyed it once I managed to adapt to its flaws and new direction. It is NOT a Hitman game in my eyes - it's too different in terms of mechanics, level design, structure etc. If I was to draw a comparison, I think Absolution's departure from old Hitman is about as much as Conviction deviated from Splinter Cell. But unlike Conviction, this is actually a solid game that can stand on its own two feet. Here's a little breakdown of what I liked and didn't like:
+ new controls were mostly superb (although it did struggle at times when multiple items were overlapping). I would maybe swap aim with crouch though, since the emphasis is on sneaking.
+ story was well done overall. It didn't set the world on fire, but it was an obvious step up from previous games. Dexter was a fantastically disgusting villain. Also my favourite rendition of 47 yet.
+ very capable graphics engine. I think I would put it on par with something like CryEngine 3. sometimes it does push the boundaries of taste though, with all the lens flare and depth of field.
+ general presentation was superb - art, voice work, cutscenes, and even the music was decent despite lacking Jesper Kyd. You can tell those Square Enix dollars were used well.
+ Contracts mode is a fucking fantastic idea for asynchronous multiplayer. So much potential in this mode going forward.
+ long single player. it took me 14 hours to complete, which is excellent value for £20.
+ felt reminiscent of Manhunt and older Splinter Cell games, which were some of my favourite games last gen
+ there were quite a few moments that brought a huge grin to my face, like pretending to be a judge, and murdering people while dressed as a scarecrow in a corn field
- not enough traditional Hitman style levels. Probably only 1/3 of the game had open environments.
- ... and these open environments are fragmented by points of no return at that
- busted disguise system. A mod fixes it, but its influence runs so deep in the game's design that by changing it you expose how shallow the game's social stealth really is.
- Instinct needs a lot of tweaking, especially in how it's earned/recharges/depletes. And even with changes, you have to ask if it's all really worth it when a simple map sufficed.
- there is a much more arcade-y feeling to the game. From the HUD, to the huge emphasis on scoring and achievements, to even the feeling of the gunplay. I prefer things to feel more mature.
- the game's mechanics break the higher you put the difficulty.
Purist mode is a nightmare and doesn't make the game like old Hitman at all.
- lots of small stuff that's bizarrely missing like not being able to close doors, no coin distractions, no first person view (really disappointing because there is so much environmental detail)
- I don't like the new inventory system. 47 should not be able to store a hunting rifle in his coat.
- AI isn't impressive. Crowds don't react enough when the shit hits the fan. They just kind of stand around screaming and gawking at 47 as he guns them down. There wasn't anything as cool as a random civilian grabbing a gun to try to be the hero like in Blood Money.
- I miss the whole mission preparation aspect where Diana briefs you and you pick weapons to take with you. I know the story couldn't accommodate it, but I miss it all the same.
- The newspapers and accompanying notoriety system were also really unique elements of Blood Money that are now gone. It had its problems, but don't take the Bioware approach and ditch rather than improve..
- I strongly dislike the idea of upgrading abilities. 47 is a badass with years of experience under his belt, he doesn't need developed during the game.
- broken checkpoint system. everyone should not respawn if i'm killed
- just generally very few moments that make you feel like a pure professional killer. you get none of that buzz that you get from popping a single bullet in a target's head, then calmly strolling out the front door while everyone is none the wiser. Absolution is more "wham bam thank you mam".
So overall, I believe that if Eidos Montreal (or whoever is in charge of the next game) were to take the positives and reconcile them with the old Hitman formula, you would have the perfect next step for the franchise.
