Multiplayer: None (Primary Game). Ghost Mode was a 1v1 competitive mode in Hitman 2, not carried over directly. Sniper Assassin had co-op. Freelancer is single-player.
Setting: Various Global Locations (Dubai, Dartmoor, Berlin, Chongqing, Mendoza, Carpathian Mountains + Hitman 1 & 2 locations)
Platforms: PC (Windows), PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch (Cloud Version), Google Stadia (discontinued)
Unique Feature: World of Assassination Platform (integrates H1/H2), Deep Sandbox Levels, Mission Stories & Creative Kills, Disguise System, Location Mastery & Unlocks, Freelancer Roguelike Mode.
Perspective: First-Person (Third-Person Mode available in Winters' Expansion)
Multiplayer: Single-Player Campaign. The Mercenaries mode is single-player. (RE:Verse was a separate bundled multiplayer game).
Setting: Isolated Eastern European Village & Surrounding Areas (Castle, Factory, etc.)
Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch (Cloud Version), macOS, iOS
Unique Feature: Four Distinct Lord Domains with Unique Horror Themes, Memorable Antagonists (Lady Dimitrescu), Inventory Management & Crafting, First-Person Immersive Horror, Winters' Expansion (Shadows of Rose, Third-Person Mode).
sports_esports
Gameplay & Mechanics
Companions/Followers
Diana Burnwood (Via Comms / Narrative): Agent 47's primary handler. She provides mission briefings, intelligence on targets and locations, real-time updates during missions, and exfiltration guidance via radio communication. She is a crucial narrative and gameplay support figure but does not physically accompany 47 on missions.
Human
Lucas Grey (Temporary AI / Narrative): During certain story missions in Hitman 2 and the beginning of Hitman 3, Lucas Grey fights alongside Agent 47 as an AI-controlled companion or coordinates actions with him. His presence is scripted for specific narrative sequences.
Human (Fellow Clone)
Olivia Hall (Via Comms / Narrative): A skilled hacker allied with Lucas Grey and later 47. She provides technical support, hacking assistance, and intelligence via radio communication during certain missions.
Human
No Persistent Gameplay Companions: Agent 47 is a lone operative by nature. The core gameplay loop focuses on his individual skills in stealth, disguise, and assassination. He does not have persistent AI companions that follow him or can be commanded during missions.
None (Ethan Winters - Gameplay): For the vast majority of his playable sections, Ethan Winters fights alone. He does not have persistent AI companions that follow him or can be commanded in combat during his main story segments.
Hound Wolf Squad Members (Chris Redfield's Section - Temporary AI): During Chris Redfield's playable segment, he is accompanied by members of his Hound Wolf Squad (e.g., Canine, Lobo, Night Howl, Umber Eyes). They are AI-controlled and provide significant combat support with military-grade weaponry and tactics during these specific missions.
Human (BSAA Elite Soldiers)
Mia Winters & Rosemary Winters (Narrative Context): While central to Ethan's motivations, Mia and Rosemary do not act as gameplay companions for Ethan. Rosemary is an infant, and Mia's active role is primarily at the beginning and end of the game.
Human
Michael (Shadows of Rose DLC - Temporary Guide/Entity): In the 'Shadows of Rose' DLC, Rose is guided by a mysterious entity calling itself 'Michael,' which communicates through text appearing on surfaces. It provides hints and narrative direction but is not a physical companion.
Mysterious Entity (Megamycete Construct)
Key Collectibles
Location Mastery Unlocks (Starting Locations, Agency Pickups, Gear, Suits): Earned by gaining XP and leveling up Mastery for each specific mission location (up to Level 20). Unlocks new starting points within the level, allows smuggling items via Agency Pickups, and grants new weapons, gadgets, and cosmetic suits for use in any mission.
Challenges (Assassination, Discovery, Feats, Targets): A vast list of specific tasks and objectives to complete within each mission, categorized by type. Completing challenges grants XP towards Location Mastery and sometimes unlocks specific items or achievements/trophies. Examples include eliminating a target in a specific way, finding all disguises, or completing a mission with a Silent Assassin rating.
Intel & Mission Stories: Clues, documents, overheard conversations, or environmental interactions that reveal 'Mission Stories' – guided opportunities for often elaborate, unique, and sometimes humorous ways to assassinate targets. Following these stories can lead to unique kills and easier access.
Disguises: Found by incapacitating NPCs. While not 'collected' in a persistent inventory (except for starting suit selection), discovering and utilizing all available disguises in a level is often a tracked challenge and key to unlocking all areas and opportunities.
Items & Weapons (Found in Level / Unlocked): Numerous melee weapons, firearms, tools, and environmental objects can be found and used within each mission. Unlocking weapons and gear through Mastery allows them to be selected for loadouts or smuggled in.
Shortcuts & Keys: Persistent shortcuts (e.g., permanently unlocked doors, ladders) can be opened within levels, making subsequent playthroughs or different approaches easier. Keys or keycards grant access to restricted areas.
Freelancer Mode - Merces & Gear Collection: In Freelancer mode, players earn Merces (currency) to purchase weapons, gear, and tools from suppliers for their campaigns. Successfully completing campaigns allows them to add collected high-tier weapons to their permanent Safehouse collection. Failure can result in losing non-Safehouse gear.
Files (Notes, Diaries, Documents, Reports): Numerous readable documents found throughout all areas. They provide rich backstory on the village's history, the Four Lords, Mother Miranda's experiments, the BSAA's involvement, Ethan and Mia's past, and general lore about the Resident Evil universe. Essential for understanding the full narrative.
Goats of Warding: 20 small, wooden goat effigies hidden in various locations across the village and its surrounding areas. They make a distinct clicking sound when nearby. Destroying all of them unlocks an achievement/trophy and Challenge Points for the Extra Content Shop.
Treasures (Crystal Fragments, Wooden Animals, Combineable Treasures, etc.): Valuable items that can be found hidden in the environment, dropped by certain enemies, or in locked areas. These can be sold to The Duke for Lei (in-game currency). Some treasures consist of multiple parts that can be combined to create a more valuable item (e.g., Dimitrescu's Necklace, Moreau's Hidden Weapon).
Weapon Parts (Attachments): Found in specific locations, often in locked cases or hidden areas, or purchased from The Duke. These attachments (e.g., scopes, stocks, extended magazines, compensators) can be equipped to weapons at The Duke's Emporium to improve their stats or functionality.
Cooked Meals Ingredients (Fish, Poultry, Meat - Quality Tiers): Animals like fish, chickens, pigs, and goats can be hunted in the village and surrounding areas. They drop different qualities of meat. These ingredients are given to The Duke to cook special meals that provide permanent upgrades to Ethan's maximum health, blocking defense, or movement speed.
Outhouse Puzzles (Hidden Items): Many outhouses in the village have a small item hidden inside, often requiring a lockpick or a specific angle to see and shoot down. These usually contain ammo or minor resources.
Labyrinth Puzzles & Balls: Each of the Four Lords' main areas (and the village) contains a Labyrinth Puzzle model. Ethan must find a corresponding metal ball (e.g., Crimson Skull, Black Goat) and guide it through the miniature labyrinth to obtain a valuable Crystal Treasure.
Agent 47's signature sidearms. Essential for stealthy takedowns (silenced variants) or as a backup combat weapon. Various models with different stats (accuracy, damage, suppression level, magazine size).
Rapid-firing weapons effective at close range if stealth is broken. Can be found in levels or unlocked via mastery. Often available in silenced versions.
Devastating at close range, ideal for loud encounters or eliminating heavily armored targets quickly.
Sniper Rifles (e.g., Sieger 300 Ghost, Jaeger 7 Lancer, Druzhina 34 Arctic): Long Range Firearm (Precision Assassination)
Used for eliminating targets from extreme distances. Many variants offer different levels of suppression, zoom, and special properties (e.g., subsonic, armor-piercing). Often require assembly from parts smuggled in a briefcase.
Fiber Wire: Melee (Silent Garrote)
Agent 47's classic tool for silent, non-messy strangulation kills from behind. A starting item.
Numerous everyday objects that can be used to knock out NPCs silently from behind or in melee combat. Essential for non-lethal playthroughs and acquiring disguises.
Can be used to contaminate food or drink, or directly injected. Lethal poison kills targets discreetly. Emetic poison makes them sick and seek a bathroom. Sedative poison knocks them out.
Various explosive devices for creating diversions, eliminating targets through 'accidents,' or breaching locked doors. Some are designed to be inconspicuous.
Distraction Items (Coins, Various Throwable Objects): Utility (Stealth)
Coins are a staple for luring NPCs or making them investigate a sound. Many other small objects can be thrown for similar purposes.
Unlockable tools that aid in infiltration. Lockpicks open simple doors. Scramblers bypass electronic locks. EMP charges disable security devices. The Sieker 1 silently delivers emetic poison from a distance.
Standard sidearms for general combat. Range from basic pistols to powerful magnums. Upgradable for damage, fire rate, capacity, etc. Some have unique properties or attachments.
Effective at close range, dealing high damage to unarmored or multiple enemies. Includes pump-action, tactical, and semi-automatic variants. Upgradable.
The FZ F2 is a bolt-action sniper rifle for long-range precision. During Chris Redfield's section, assault rifles like the Dragoon are used. Upgradable with scopes, stocks, etc.
Fires explosive rounds for area damage or flashbang rounds to stun enemies. Limited ammunition.
Knife: Melee (Utility/Last Resort)
Ethan's standard melee weapon. Used for breaking crates, finishing downed enemies, or as a last resort in combat. Not very effective against most enemies on its own.
Mines & Pipe Bombs: Craftable Explosives
Craftable throwable or deployable explosives. Pipe bombs are basic grenades, while mines can be set as traps.
Special/Story Weapons (e.g., specific weapons during boss fights or unique sections): Contextual / Unique
Certain sections or boss encounters may provide Ethan (or other playable characters like Chris) with unique or powerful weapons temporarily.
Chris Redfield's Arsenal (Target Locator, WCX Assault Rifle, Karambit Knife - Playable Section): Military Grade Weaponry
During Chris's playable segment, he has access to more advanced military weaponry, including an assault rifle with various attachments and a target locator for airstrikes.
Rose Winters' Powers (Shadows of Rose DLC - Not traditional weapons): Bio-Organic Abilities
In the 'Shadows of Rose' DLC, Rose uses powers derived from the Mold to destroy Mold Cores, stun enemies, and clear obstacles, rather than conventional firearms for most of the DLC.
Armor / Gear Sets
No Equipable Armor System (Damage Mitigation): Agent 47 does not equip traditional armor pieces for direct damage reduction that can be swapped or upgraded. His survivability in combat relies on player skill in using cover, stealth, takedowns, and managing his health (which regenerates to a certain point, with full restoration often requiring finding specific items or being out of combat for a period). Some starting suits in Freelancer mode might offer a slight initial health advantage, but this is not a core armor system.
Disguises (Stealth 'Armor'): The primary form of 'protection' in Hitman is the disguise system. Wearing an appropriate disguise allows Agent 47 to blend in with different groups of NPCs and access restricted areas without arousing immediate suspicion. Different disguises grant varying levels of access and may be scrutinized by specific 'Enforcer' NPCs. This system is about social stealth rather than direct damage mitigation.
Cosmetic Suits: Players can unlock a vast array of cosmetic suits for Agent 47 to wear at the start of missions or change into. These are purely visual and do not provide any gameplay advantages or defensive stats. They are unlocked through Mastery, Challenges, Elusive Targets, or DLC.
No Equipable Armor System (Ethan Winters): Ethan Winters does not have an equipable armor system where players can find or upgrade different pieces of armor for direct stat boosts. His survivability is based on his base health (which can be permanently increased by eating specific cooked meals from The Duke's Kitchen), player skill in combat (blocking, dodging), and the use of healing items (First Aid Meds). Clothing changes are story-dictated and purely cosmetic.
Defensive Upgrades (The Duke's Kitchen): By providing The Duke with specific quantities of Fish, Poultry, and Meat obtained from hunting animals in the village, Ethan can have meals cooked that provide permanent upgrades to his maximum health, blocking defense, or movement speed. This is the primary way to increase his resilience.
Blocking Mechanic: Ethan can block incoming attacks with his arms or equipped weapon, significantly reducing damage taken. A well-timed block can sometimes stagger enemies. This is a core defensive skill.
Outfits/Customization
Agent 47's Signature Suit (Black Suit, White Shirt, Red Tie): Agent 47's iconic default attire. While this is his primary look, players can unlock and choose to start missions in a vast array of other cosmetic suits.
Unlockable Suits (Themed, Location-Specific, Challenge Rewards): A wide variety of cosmetic suits can be unlocked by completing challenges, achieving high Mastery Levels in locations, successfully eliminating Elusive Targets, or through DLC/Deluxe Editions. Examples include tactical gear, formal wear, casual outfits, humorous costumes, and suits inspired by previous Hitman games. These are purely visual.
Disguises (In-Mission): A core gameplay mechanic. Agent 47 can incapacitate NPCs and take their outfits to use as disguises. Each disguise grants access to different areas of a level and changes how other NPCs react to 47. There are hundreds of unique disguises across all locations, from guard uniforms and waiter outfits to more outlandish costumes like a flamingo mascot or a scarecrow.
Gloves (Often part of Suit Unlocks): Many unlockable suits come with specific glove designs, contributing to the overall aesthetic.
Freelancer Mode Safehouse Customization: In Freelancer mode, players can spend Merces (in-game currency) to customize various areas of Agent 47's safehouse, including the kitchen, garage, living areas, and exterior, with different furniture, decorations, and themes. This doesn't directly affect 47's wearable clothing but adds a layer of personalization.
Ethan Winters' Attire: Ethan wears a consistent outfit throughout the main game (winter jacket, pants, etc.), which becomes progressively more tattered and bloodied as he endures hardships. There are no direct clothing customization options for Ethan in the story mode beyond these contextual changes. The Third-Person Mode added in the Winters' Expansion shows his full character model.
Chris Redfield's Attire: During his playable segment, Chris wears his signature Hound Wolf Squad tactical gear. This is fixed for his section.
Rose Winters' Attire (Shadows of Rose DLC): In the 'Shadows of Rose' DLC, teenage Rose wears a distinct outfit. Her appearance is fixed for her storyline.
Character Costumes (The Mercenaries Additional Orders / Unlockables): The Mercenaries mode and potentially other unlockable content (like through completing challenges or as part of Deluxe/Gold editions) may offer alternate cosmetic costumes for playable characters in those specific modes (e.g., different outfits for Chris, Lady Dimitrescu, Heisenberg in Mercenaries).
public
World & Exploration
Playable Vehicles
No Player-Controlled Vehicles (General Traversal)
Agent 47 primarily traverses mission locations on foot, utilizing stealth, disguises, and environmental navigation (climbing pipes, ledges, using ladders). There are no player-drivable cars, motorcycles, boats, or aircraft for general exploration within the sandbox levels.
Contextual Vehicles (Used for Exits, Scripted Events, or as Environmental Elements): Various (Cars, Boats, Helicopters, Trains, etc.)
Vehicles are present in many levels as environmental details, potential 'accident' kill opportunities (e.g., sabotaging a car), or as specific means of exfiltration once mission objectives are complete (e.g., escaping in a speedboat, helicopter, or car). Some mission stories might involve interacting with or briefly being inside a vehicle during a scripted sequence, but free-roam driving is not a feature.
Fast Travel (Via Starting Locations / Unlocked Shortcuts - Within Mission Replays): Mission Start / Level Navigation Mechanic
When replaying missions, players can choose different unlocked starting locations (often requiring specific disguises) to begin closer to certain objectives. Within levels, discovering and unlocking persistent shortcuts (like doors from the other side or kickable ladders) allows for faster navigation on subsequent attempts or during different approaches.
Tractor (Briefly, Cutscene/Scripted): Agricultural Land Vehicle
Ethan briefly uses a tractor during an escape sequence early in the game, but it is a scripted event rather than a freely controllable vehicle.
Boat (Moreau's Reservoir): Small Motorboat / Watercraft
Used by Ethan to navigate the flooded areas of Moreau's Reservoir while being pursued by the transformed Salvatore Moreau. Control is primarily for navigation and evasion during this specific segment.
Makeshift Tank / Vehicle (Heisenberg's Factory - Boss Fight): Improvised Combat Vehicle
During the boss fight against Karl Heisenberg, Ethan pilots a makeshift, heavily armed vehicle created by Chris Redfield to counter Heisenberg's metallic form. Control is specific to this boss encounter.
Traversal on Foot (Walking, Running, Sprinting, Crouching): Player Locomotion
Primary mode of movement. Ethan can walk, run (limited by stamina that isn't explicitly shown but implied by breathlessness), sprint for short bursts, and crouch for stealth or navigating low passages.
The genetically engineered, master assassin. Known for his professionalism, precision, and ability to blend in using disguises. In this trilogy, he confronts his past and the organization that created him, Providence, while questioning his own purpose.
Diana Burnwood: Ally / Handler (ICA, later Independent)
Agent 47's long-time handler at the International Contract Agency (ICA). Provides mission briefings, intelligence, and moral guidance. Her relationship with 47 is central to the narrative, especially as they work against Providence.
Lucas Grey (The Shadow Client / Subject 6): Ally / Former Antagonist / Fellow Clone
A childhood friend and fellow genetically engineered operative from Dr. Ort-Meyer's facility. Initially an antagonist in Hitman (2016) seeking to destroy Providence, he becomes 47's key ally and friend in Hitman 2 and 3.
Arthur Edwards (The Constant): Main Antagonist / Leader of Providence
The enigmatic and highly intelligent leader of Providence, the secretive organization that secretly controls global affairs. He is the primary antagonist of the World of Assassination trilogy, manipulating events from the shadows.
The Partners (Carl Ingram, Marcus Stuyvesant, Alexa Carlisle - Hitman 3 Targets): Antagonists / Leaders of Providence
The three current leaders (Partners) of Providence, who become primary targets for 47 and Grey in Hitman 3 as they dismantle the organization.
Olivia Hall: Ally / Hacker (Associate of Lucas Grey)
A skilled hacker who works closely with Lucas Grey and later assists 47 and Diana in their fight against Providence.
Various Targets (Across all three games): Assassination Objectives
A vast array of individuals targeted by 47 throughout the World of Assassination trilogy, each with their own backstories, routines, and connections to the larger conspiracy or criminal enterprises.
In Freelancer mode, targets and some support NPCs are procedurally generated with unique traits and appearances, creating diverse assassination challenges.
Ethan Winters: Protagonist
The returning protagonist from Resident Evil 7: Biohazard. A civilian desperately searching for his kidnapped infant daughter, Rosemary, which leads him to a mysterious and hostile village in Eastern Europe. He endures immense physical and psychological trauma throughout his ordeal.
Mia Winters: Supporting Character / Ethan's Wife
Ethan's wife and Rosemary's mother. Her apparent death at the beginning of the game sets Ethan on his quest. Her past connections to The Connections and bioweapons are relevant.
Rosemary 'Rose' Winters: Key Character / Ethan's Daughter / Playable in 'Shadows of Rose' DLC
Ethan and Mia's infant daughter, who possesses unique abilities due to her parents' exposure to the Mold. She is kidnapped by Chris Redfield, and her rescue is Ethan's primary motivation. Playable as a teenager in the 'Shadows of Rose' DLC.
Chris Redfield: Supporting Character / Antagonist Figure (Initially) / BSAA Operative
A recurring hero from the Resident Evil series. He appears to act antagonistically at the start of Village, but his true motives and mission are gradually revealed. Leads the Hound Wolf Squad. Playable in a short segment of the main game and as a character in The Mercenaries.
The Duke: Ally / Merchant
An enigmatic and surprisingly jovial, obese merchant who appears in various locations throughout the village. He sells weapons, ammunition, crafting recipes, weapon upgrades, and cooks meals for Ethan that provide permanent stat boosts. Offers cryptic advice and assistance.
Mother Miranda: Main Antagonist / Village Cult Leader
The supreme leader of the village and the Four Lords. A powerful bioweapon researcher who seeks to use Rosemary to resurrect her own deceased daughter, Eva. She is the source of the Mold and the mutations in the region.
Lady Alcina Dimitrescu: Antagonist / One of the Four Lords
The towering, aristocratic mistress of Castle Dimitrescu. A vampiric figure with immense strength and retractable claws, she rules her domain with her three daughters. Became a viral sensation due to her height and design.
Karl Heisenberg: Antagonist / One of the Four Lords / Potential Rebel
A charismatic and rebellious lord with the power to manipulate metal (ferrokinesis). He operates a factory producing cybernetic soldiers (Soldats). He has his own agenda and offers Ethan a chance to join him against Miranda.
Donna Beneviento & Angie: Antagonist / One of the Four Lords
A reclusive doll maker who communicates through her sentient puppet, Angie. Her domain, House Beneviento, focuses on psychological horror, hallucinations, and puzzles rather than direct combat.
Salvatore Moreau: Antagonist / One of the Four Lords
A grotesque, fish-like mutant lord with low self-esteem, desperate for Miranda's approval. He controls a reservoir and can transform into a colossal aquatic monster.
Elena & Leonardo Lupu: Supporting Characters / Villagers
Survivors Ethan encounters in the village. Elena tries to help Ethan but faces tragic circumstances with her father, Leonardo.
The Hag (Old Crone): Supporting Character / Narrator Figure
An elderly, mysterious villager who appears at various points, offering cryptic warnings, lore, and seemingly observing Ethan's journey.
A series of story-driven assassination contracts set in diverse global locations. Each mission presents Agent 47 with one or more primary targets to eliminate, along with optional objectives (e.g., retrieving an item, specific assassination methods). Levels are large sandboxes offering multiple approaches and high replayability.
Hitman 1 & Hitman 2 Campaign Missions (Via World of Assassination Access Passes)
If the player owns or purchases access to Hitman (2016) and Hitman 2 (2018) content, all their respective campaign missions (e.g., Paris, Sapienza, Marrakesh, Bangkok, Colorado, Hokkaido from H1; Hawke's Bay, Miami, Santa Fortuna, Mumbai, Whittleton Creek, Isle of Sgàil from H2) become playable within the Hitman 3 (World of Assassination) platform, utilizing its updated engine and mechanics.
Escalation Contracts
Multi-stage contracts with progressively increasing difficulty and often complex or restrictive conditions (e.g., specific disguises, kill methods, time limits, added complications). Each stage builds upon the last. Some are part of Deluxe content or themed DLCs (Seven Deadly Sins).
Elusive Targets (Time-Limited)
Special, time-limited missions where players have only one chance to assassinate a unique target with a specific backstory. If the player fails or the target escapes, the contract is lost permanently for that run (though Elusive Targets often get reactivated in batches later). Successfully completing them unlocks unique suits.
Contracts Mode (User-Generated Content)
Players can create their own assassination contracts within existing mission locations by marking NPCs as targets and setting specific kill conditions or disguise requirements. These contracts can then be shared online for other players to attempt, fostering a community of challenge creators.
Sniper Assassin Missions (Haven Island, Hantu Port, Siberia - from Hitman 2)
Dedicated sniper missions where Agent 47 must eliminate multiple targets and their bodyguards from a fixed sniper perch within a time limit, often by creating chain reactions or 'accident' kills using his sniper rifle. Can be played solo or in online co-op (co-op functionality might vary in WoA).
Freelancer Mode Campaigns (Roguelike)
A single-player roguelike mode where Agent 47 takes on campaigns against various criminal syndicates. Each campaign consists of several missions leading to a showdown with a syndicate leader. Players must manage resources (Merces), acquire gear from suppliers, and risk losing non-Safehouse items upon failure. Features a customizable Safehouse as a persistent hub.
Featured Contracts
Curated selections of community-created contracts highlighted by IO Interactive, often with specific themes or challenging conditions.
Main Story Campaign (Ethan's Search for Rose)
A series of interconnected chapters following Ethan Winters' desperate journey through the titular village and the domains of the Four Lords (Castle Dimitrescu, House Beneviento, Moreau's Reservoir, Heisenberg's Factory) to rescue his kidnapped daughter, Rosemary, and confront Mother Miranda. Involves exploration, puzzle-solving, intense combat encounters, and boss battles.
Chris Redfield's Section
A segment of the main campaign where players take control of Chris Redfield as he leads his Hound Wolf Squad on a mission related to Mother Miranda and the Megamycete, showcasing more action-oriented gameplay with military weaponry.
Puzzle Solving (Key Items, Environmental Puzzles)
Throughout the game, Ethan must find key items (e.g., specific keys, crests, tools like the Well Wheel or Crank) and solve environmental puzzles to progress, unlock new areas, or access valuable loot. This includes tasks like finding mask fragments in Castle Dimitrescu or navigating the non-combat horror sequences in House Beneviento.
Boss Battles (Four Lords, Miranda, Mini-Bosses)
Confront and defeat the unique and often multi-phase bosses that guard the end of each major area or serve as significant story encounters. This includes fighting each of the Four Lords in their transformed states and ultimately Mother Miranda.
Optional Exploration & Treasure Hunting
Explore optional paths, hidden rooms, and side areas within the main locations to find valuable treasures (which can be sold to The Duke), weapon parts, crafting resources, files, and Goats of Warding. Some treasures require solving small puzzles or finding combineable parts.
The Duke's Kitchen (Hunting & Upgrades)
Hunt animals (fish, poultry, meat) found in the village and surrounding areas. Bring the ingredients to The Duke, who can cook special meals that provide permanent upgrades to Ethan's maximum health, blocking defense, or movement speed.
Shadows of Rose Story Campaign (DLC)
A new narrative campaign played as a teenage Rosemary Winters. She enters the Megamycete's consciousness to find a way to rid herself of her powers, facing surreal environments, new enemies (Face Eaters, Molded), and exploring her connection to the Mold. Played entirely in third-person.
The Mercenaries / The Mercenaries Additional Orders (Game Mode)
An arcade-style score attack mode. Players choose a character (Ethan, Chris, Lady Dimitrescu, Heisenberg) and fight through waves of enemies across various stages within a time limit, aiming for high scores by chaining kills and utilizing character-specific abilities and weapons. Unlocks new stages and potentially in-game rewards.
people
Multiplayer
Multiplayer Details
N/A
The base game of Resident Evil Village is single-player only. 'The Mercenaries' is an arcade-style, single-player score attack mode. The multiplayer game 'Resident Evil RE:Verse' was intended to launch alongside Village as a free pack-in but was delayed and released later as a separate entity.
extension
Editions & DLC
Available Editions
Available in Standard Edition and Deluxe Edition. Deluxe Edition included Deluxe Escalation Contracts, Deluxe suits and items, digital soundtrack, digital 'World of Hitman' book, and director commentary. Pre-orders often included the 'Trinity Pack' (suits and briefcases themed after Hitman 1, 2, & 3). Hitman 3 eventually became 'Hitman: World of Assassination,' bundling Hitman 1 GOTY Access Pass and Hitman 2 Standard Access Pass for all owners, effectively making it the definitive platform for the trilogy.
Available in Standard Edition, Deluxe Edition (Trauma Pack with 'Samurai Edge' weapon, Mr. Everywhere weapon charm, found footage filter, save room music, additional difficulty mode 'Village of Shadows'), Collector's Edition (Deluxe content + Chris Redfield statue, SteelBook, artbook, cloth map, Trauma Pack). A 'Gold Edition' was released later, bundling the base game with the 'Winters' Expansion' (Shadows of Rose DLC, Third-Person Mode for main campaign, The Mercenaries Additional Orders).
Post-Launch Content / DLC
Major post-launch content includes the 'Seven Deadly Sins' collection (seven themed DLC packs with unique Escalation Contracts, suits, and items). The 'Freelancer' mode was a significant free update, adding a roguelike campaign with persistent progression and customizable safehouse. Numerous free Elusive Targets, Escalation Contracts, and Featured Contracts have been added. The game also evolved into 'Hitman: World of Assassination,' integrating content from the previous two games for owners.
The 'Winters' Expansion' was the major post-launch DLC. It includes: 'Shadows of Rose' (a new story chapter playing as a teenage Rose Winters with unique powers), Third-Person Mode for the main campaign, and 'The Mercenaries Additional Orders' (new characters like Chris, Heisenberg, Lady Dimitrescu, and stages for the arcade mode).
help_outline
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Hitman: World of Assassination? A: Hitman: World of Assassination is the current branding for Hitman 3, which now serves as a platform to access the content from all three games in the trilogy (Hitman (2016), Hitman 2 (2018), and Hitman 3 (2021)) within a single, unified interface, provided the player owns the respective Access Passes or base games.
Q: How does the Disguise system work? A: Agent 47 can incapacitate NPCs and take their outfits. Wearing a disguise allows him to blend in with that group of NPCs and access areas restricted to that role (e.g., a guard disguise allows access to security rooms). However, certain 'Enforcer' NPCs (marked with a white dot) can see through specific disguises if 47 gets too close or stays in their line of sight.
Q: What are Mission Stories? A: Mission Stories are guided opportunities within each level that present unique and often elaborate ways to get close to and eliminate targets. They are discovered by finding intel or overhearing conversations and can lead to cinematic or 'accident' kills.
Q: What is the 'Silent Assassin' rating? A: Silent Assassin is the highest rating achievable on a mission. It requires eliminating only the target(s), no bodies found (unless it was an accident kill or they were hidden), not being caught on camera (or destroying the evidence), and not being spotted committing any illegal actions. Achieving this rating often unlocks specific challenges and rewards.
Q: What is Freelancer mode? A: Freelancer is a free, single-player roguelike mode added to Hitman: World of Assassination. Players take on campaigns against criminal syndicates, earning Merces (currency) to buy gear and upgrade a customizable safehouse. Failure on a mission can result in losing collected (non-Safehouse) gear for that campaign, adding high stakes.
Q: Are there different ways to kill targets? A: Yes, a hallmark of the Hitman series is the immense player freedom in how to eliminate targets. This can range from direct confrontation (though often difficult), to stealthy melee or silenced pistol kills, to elaborate 'accident' kills (e.g., dropping a chandelier, poisoning food, sabotaging equipment), using sniper rifles, or exploiting unique environmental opportunities.
Q: Is Resident Evil Village a direct sequel to Resident Evil 7: Biohazard? A: Yes, Resident Evil Village directly continues the story of Ethan Winters and his wife Mia, set a few years after the events of Resident Evil 7.
Q: Do I need to play Resident Evil 7 before Village? A: It is highly recommended. Village heavily references characters, events, and themes from RE7. While there's a brief recap, playing RE7 first provides crucial context for Ethan's motivations and the overarching story.
Q: Is Resident Evil Village in first-person or third-person? A: The main campaign of Resident Evil Village is played in first-person. However, the 'Winters' Expansion' DLC added an optional Third-Person Mode for the main story, allowing players to experience it from an over-the-shoulder perspective.
Q: Who are the Four Lords? A: The Four Lords are a group of mutated individuals who rule different territories surrounding the village, all serving Mother Miranda. They are Lady Alcina Dimitrescu (vampiric mistress of a castle), Karl Heisenberg (engineer with magnetic powers and a factory), Donna Beneviento (reclusive doll maker controlling hallucinations), and Salvatore Moreau (grotesque fish-like creature controlling a reservoir).
Q: What is The Mercenaries mode? A: The Mercenaries is an arcade-style, score-based bonus mode unlocked after completing the main story. Players choose a character and must defeat waves of enemies across various stages within a time limit, chaining combos and utilizing character-specific abilities to achieve high scores and unlock rewards. The 'Additional Orders' DLC added more characters and stages.
Q: What is 'Shadows of Rose'? A: 'Shadows of Rose' is a story DLC included in the 'Winters' Expansion'. It is set 16 years after the main game and follows a teenage Rosemary Winters as she delves into the consciousness of the Megamycete to find a way to remove her unwanted powers. It is played in third-person.
build
Technical Details
Graphics & Visual Fidelity
Powered by IO Interactive's Glacier Engine, Hitman 3 showcases highly detailed and atmospheric sandbox locations from around the world. It features impressive lighting, reflections (especially with ray tracing), dense crowds, and detailed character models. Each location has a distinct visual identity and ambiance. Ray tracing for reflections and shadows was added in a post-launch update on PC and current-gen consoles.
Powered by Capcom's RE Engine, Resident Evil Village boasts stunning visuals with highly detailed environments, lifelike character models (especially the Four Lords), and advanced lighting and shadow effects. The game features distinct visual styles for each lord's domain, from the gothic opulence of Castle Dimitrescu to the grotesque organic horror of Moreau's Reservoir. Ray tracing options (Global Illumination, Reflections) are available on PC and current-gen consoles, significantly enhancing visual fidelity.
Audio & Soundtrack
Original score composed by Niels Bye Nielsen, featuring tense, atmospheric, and cinematic orchestral pieces that adapt to gameplay situations (stealth, combat, discovery). Sound design is crucial for stealth, with distinct audio cues for footsteps, guard patrols, conversations (for intel), and environmental hazards. Weapon sounds are impactful.
Original score composed by Shusaku Uchiyama, Nao Sato, and Marcin Przybyłowicz, featuring a blend of orchestral horror themes, tense ambient tracks, and folk-inspired melodies reflecting the Eastern European setting. Sound design is crucial for horror atmosfére, with distinct enemy vocalizations (Lycans' howls, Dimitrescu's pursuit), environmental creaks, and impactful weapon sounds. The game uses binaural audio for enhanced spatial awareness.
User Interface (UI/UX)
Features a clean and minimalistic HUD. Important information like objectives, suspect identification (Instinct mode), and interaction prompts are displayed contextually. The mini-map shows NPC locations and points of interest. Menus for inventory, mission planning, challenges, mastery, and contracts are accessible. Instinct mode highlights targets, interactable objects, and guard routes through walls.
Features a first-person HUD displaying health (electrocardiogram style), ammo count, and equipped item. Inventory management is grid-based, similar to Resident Evil 4, accessible in real-time (though the game often pauses when accessing the full inventory screen). A map helps with navigation, marking key items, save points (typewriters), and locked doors. Crafting is done via a dedicated menu.
Accessibility Options
Offers a range of accessibility options, including customizable controls (PC), extensive subtitle and caption customization, options for aim assist, UI scaling, colorblind modes, options to reduce visual clutter or demanding effects, and various gameplay toggles for difficulty and interaction prompts.
Offers a range of accessibility options, including customizable controls (PC), extensive subtitle and caption customization, options for aim assist, display adjustments for brightness and contrast, options to reduce camera wobble, and various audio settings. A third-person mode was added in the Winters' Expansion, which can also be an accessibility aid for some players.
laptop_windowsGPU (L): NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 Mobile (6GB, High TGP) / RTX 3060 Mobile (6GB, High TGP). **An RTX 3070 Mobile or RTX 4060 Mobile (High TGP) is a good target for 1080p High/Max 60FPS.**
layersRAM: 16 GB
saveStorage (Tier): 35 GB SSD
1080p (Full HD) - Recommended (1080p ~60 FPS, High Preset, No Ray Tracing)(High Preset, Ray Tracing OFF)
CPU: Recommended desktop CPU for 1080p/60FPS High settings.
CPU (Laptop): Estimated mid-range laptop CPUs.
GPU: Recommended desktop GPU for 1080p/60FPS High.
GPU (Laptop): Estimated performance-focused laptop GPUs. 6GB+ VRAM recommended.
RAM: 16GB RAM strongly recommended.
Storage: SSD strongly recommended.
laptop_windowsGPU (L): NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile (6GB) / RTX 2060 Mobile (6GB). **An RTX 3060 Mobile or RTX 4050 Mobile (High TGP) is a good target for 1080p High.**
layersRAM: 16 GB
saveStorage (Tier): 80 GB SSD
—
1080p (Full HD) - Minimum (1080p ~45-60 FPS, Prioritize Performance Preset, No Ray Tracing)(Prioritize Performance Preset / Low-Medium Settings, Ray Tracing OFF)
CPU: Minimum desktop CPU for playable framerates.
CPU (Laptop): Estimated laptop CPU equivalent. Newer i5/Ryzen 5 H-series recommended.
GPU: Minimum desktop GPU.
GPU (Laptop): Estimated laptop GPUs. 4GB VRAM is a tight minimum.
RAM: Minimum RAM requirement.
Storage: HDD absolute minimum, SSD highly recommended.
—
memoryCPU: Intel Core i5-7500 or AMD Ryzen 3 1200
developer_boardGPU: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 Ti (4GB VRAM) or AMD Radeon RX 560 (4GB VRAM)
laptop_windowsGPU (L): NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 Mobile (4GB) or AMD Radeon RX 5500M. **An RTX 3050 Mobile or RTX 4050 Mobile would be significantly better for consistent framerates and higher settings.**
layersRAM: 8 GB
saveStorage (Tier): 35 GB HDD (SSD Recommended)
1080p (Full HD) - Minimum (1080p ~30-60 FPS, Low/Medium Preset, No Ray Tracing)(Low to Medium Preset, Ray Tracing OFF)
CPU: Minimum desktop CPU for playable framerates.
CPU (Laptop): Estimated laptop CPU equivalent. Modern i5/Ryzen 5 U or H series better.
GPU: Minimum desktop GPU.
GPU (Laptop): Estimated laptop GPUs. 4GB VRAM is a practical minimum.
RAM: 8GB minimum, but 16GB significantly improves performance.
Storage: HDD absolute minimum, SSD highly recommended.
memoryCPU: Intel Core i5-2500K @ 3.3GHz or AMD Phenom II X4 940 / AMD Ryzen 3 1200
developer_boardGPU: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 660 / GTX 1050 or AMD Radeon HD 7870 / RX 460
2160p (UHD/4K) - Ultimate RT (Estimated 2160p/4K ~60 FPS, Ultra Preset, RT On, DLSS Performance + Frame Gen)(Ultra Preset, Ray Tracing ON, DLSS Performance + Frame Generation (if available))
CPU: Flagship CPU for attempting 4K Ultra RT.
CPU (Laptop): Absolute top-tier laptop CPUs.
GPU: Flagship desktop GPU for 4K Ultra RT, heavily reliant on DLSS/FSR with Frame Generation.
GPU (Laptop): The absolute best laptop GPU, will be pushed to its limits with 4K Ultra RT. Upscaling + Frame Gen mandatory.
RAM: 32GB RAM highly recommended for 4K Ultra RT.
Storage: NVMe SSD required.
memoryCPU: Intel Core i9-12900K or AMD Ryzen 9 5900X/7900X
laptop_macCPU (L): Intel Core i9-12900HX / AMD Ryzen 9 6900HX or better. **Modern flagship Intel/AMD HX series (e.g., 13980HX, 7945HX).**
laptop_windowsGPU (L): NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090 Mobile (16GB, Max TGP). **Even this will require aggressive DLSS settings including Frame Generation for playable 4K Ultra RT. A hypothetical next-gen flagship (e.g., RTX 5090 Mobile or AMD equivalent) would be targeted for a more robust experience. (Highly Speculative)**
layersRAM: 16 GB
saveStorage (Tier): 80 GB NVMe SSD
—
save Overall Storage
Spec: Approx. 80 GB available space (SSD Recommended). This includes the base game and can increase with access to Hitman 1 & 2 locations within the World of Assassination platform. Note: An SSD is highly recommended for faster loading times between missions and for smoother asset streaming. Type: SSD
Spec: Approx. 35 GB available space (SSD Recommended). Size may increase with DLC. Note: An SSD is highly recommended for faster loading times and smoother transitions between areas. Type: SSD
desktop_windows Operating System
Spec: Windows 10 (64-bit) Explanation: 64-bit Windows 10 or Windows 11 is required.
Spec: Windows 10 (64-bit required) Explanation: 64-bit Windows 10 or Windows 11 is required.
gamepad DirectX Version
Spec: DirectX 12 Explanation: DirectX 12 API is required.
Spec: DirectX 12 Explanation: DirectX 12 API is required.
info_outline Other Game Notes
Official PC system requirements from IO Interactive. Performance can vary depending on specific hardware, settings, level complexity (especially large crowds or detailed interiors), and background applications. An SSD is strongly recommended for optimal loading times. Ray tracing features (added post-launch) are demanding.
Laptop Performance Note: Laptop models of listed desktop GPUs will require comparable performance, high TGP (Total Graphics Power), and good cooling. **Hitman 3 can be demanding at higher settings, particularly with ray tracing enabled, due to its detailed environments and complex AI simulations.**
Laptop Consideration: G P U T G P: Good TGP is important for consistent framerates, especially with RT.
Laptop Consideration: Cooling Thermals: Robust cooling is essential for sustained performance in dense sandbox levels.
Laptop Consideration: C P U Power Limits: A strong CPU is needed for managing numerous NPCs, AI routines, and physics-based 'accidents'.
Laptop Consideration: R A M Speed Dual Channel: Fast dual-channel RAM benefits performance.
Laptop Consideration: M U X Switch Optimus: Using a MUX switch or NVIDIA Advanced Optimus is recommended.
Optimization Detail: Upscaling Tech: Supports NVIDIA DLSS and AMD FSR 1.0 (later versions of FSR might be supported via patches or mods). Intel XeSS support added in a patch.
Optimization Detail: Key Settings Impact: Level of Detail, Shadow Quality, Texture Quality, SSAO (Screen Space Ambient Occlusion), Reflection Quality, and Ray Tracing (Reflections, Shadows, Sun Shadows - if enabled) heavily impact performance. The game's simulation depth can also be CPU intensive.
Game Name: Hitman 3
Official PC system requirements from Capcom. Performance can vary depending on specific hardware, settings, areas in-game (especially with many enemies or detailed environments), and background applications. An SSD is recommended for optimal performance. Ray tracing features are demanding.
Laptop Performance Note: Laptop models of listed desktop GPUs will require comparable performance, high TGP (Total Graphics Power), and excellent cooling. **Resident Evil Village can be demanding, particularly with ray tracing enabled or at higher resolutions.**
Laptop Consideration: G P U T G P: Good TGP is important for consistent framerates, especially with RT.
Laptop Consideration: Cooling Thermals: Robust cooling is essential for sustained performance.
Laptop Consideration: C P U Power Limits: A decent CPU is needed for AI and physics.
Laptop Consideration: R A M Speed Dual Channel: Fast dual-channel RAM benefits performance.
Laptop Consideration: M U X Switch Optimus: Using a MUX switch or NVIDIA Advanced Optimus is recommended.
Optimization Detail: Upscaling Tech: Supports AMD FSR 1.0. Later versions of FSR or other upscalers like DLSS might be available via official patches or mods, especially with the Winters' Expansion.
Optimization Detail: Key Settings Impact: Ray Tracing (Global Illumination, Reflections), Shadow Quality, Texture Quality, Volumetric Lighting, Ambient Occlusion, and Screen Space Reflections heavily impact performance. The game offers FidelityFX CAS for sharpening.
Game Name: Resident Evil Village
build Optimization Details
Upscaling Tech: Supports NVIDIA DLSS and AMD FSR 1.0 (later versions of FSR might be supported via patches or mods). Intel XeSS support added in a patch.
Key Settings Impact: Level of Detail, Shadow Quality, Texture Quality, SSAO (Screen Space Ambient Occlusion), Reflection Quality, and Ray Tracing (Reflections, Shadows, Sun Shadows - if enabled) heavily impact performance. The game's simulation depth can also be CPU intensive.
Upscaling Tech: Supports AMD FSR 1.0. Later versions of FSR or other upscalers like DLSS might be available via official patches or mods, especially with the Winters' Expansion.
Key Settings Impact: Ray Tracing (Global Illumination, Reflections), Shadow Quality, Texture Quality, Volumetric Lighting, Ambient Occlusion, and Screen Space Reflections heavily impact performance. The game offers FidelityFX CAS for sharpening.
laptop Laptop Considerations
G P U T G P: Good TGP is important for consistent framerates, especially with RT.
Cooling Thermals: Robust cooling is essential for sustained performance in dense sandbox levels.
C P U Power Limits: A strong CPU is needed for managing numerous NPCs, AI routines, and physics-based 'accidents'.
R A M Speed Dual Channel: Fast dual-channel RAM benefits performance.
M U X Switch Optimus: Using a MUX switch or NVIDIA Advanced Optimus is recommended.
G P U T G P: Good TGP is important for consistent framerates, especially with RT.
Cooling Thermals: Robust cooling is essential for sustained performance.
C P U Power Limits: A decent CPU is needed for AI and physics.
R A M Speed Dual Channel: Fast dual-channel RAM benefits performance.
M U X Switch Optimus: Using a MUX switch or NVIDIA Advanced Optimus is recommended.
