this game is broken and does not work on modern hardware.

running isn't punished by firing squad this time around

Amazing game, an improvement over Silent Assasin, very atmospheric

Hitman: Contracts is the third entry in the franchise, and it’s absolutely fantastic. Once again, the core formula from Hitman: Silent Assassin returns, but with significant enhancements across the board.

First off, this game runs reasonably well out of the box compared to its predecessors. While the HUD still doesn’t scale with resolution, higher resolutions are supported. However, there’s a major catch: the aspect ratio is locked at 4:3, which means you’ll need to use external tools or modify game files to get proper widescreen support. For the nerds out there, there are also a few hexadecimal tweaks you can make to restore graphical effects, like rain effect and smoke, that were present in the console versions but are inexplicably missing from the PC port.

The gameplay follows in the footsteps of Silent Assassin, but with notable improvements. There are even more ways to complete your contracts, and the AI is less paranoid: as long as you don’t bump into or blatantly provoke NPCs, your cover remains intact. That said, the AI can still behave unpredictably at times, but it’s far better than in the previous games.

The controls and UI feel solid, apart from the recurring issue of the UI not scaling with higher resolutions. It’s nothing game-breaking, but still worth noting.

The story continues directly from Silent Assassin, but much of the game takes place as flashbacks, revisiting Agent 47’s earlier contracts. Many missions are remakes of stages from Hitman: Codename 47, vastly improved in terms of level design and mechanics. This makes Contracts an excellent starting point for newcomers who want to experience the earlier games without dealing with the clunkiness of Codename 47.

The maps are diverse and well-designed, offering a mix of revamped classics and fresh locations. Some areas use color filters to create a specific atmosphere, but this feels a bit forced. Adjusting physical lighting would have been a better, more immersive solution than applying a heavy-handed tonal filter.

Graphically, Contracts builds on the foundation of Silent Assassin with noticeable improvements. However, as mentioned earlier, restoring missing effects through hex edits is necessary to experience the visuals as intended. While it’s frustrating for PC players, the end result is worth the effort.

Voice acting takes a more serious tone, shedding much of the cheesiness from previous games. The sound design is excellent, and Jesper Kyd’s soundtrack strikes a perfect balance between the orchestral leanings of Silent Assassin and the ambient, electronic vibes of Codename 47. This shift gives the music a modern feel while retaining personality and atmosphere.

The difficulty is more balanced compared to the punishing nature of Silent Assassin. Achieving a Silent Assassin rating (perfect execution) is still a rewarding challenge, and it unlocks new weapons for future missions. On the highest difficulty, Professional, hints are removed, and non-target NPCs are hidden from the map, adding replay value for veterans but making it a tough choice for first-timers.

Expect around 10 hours to beat the game, with the potential to double that if you aim for Silent Assassin ratings on every mission.

Overall, Hitman: Contracts is a solid evolution of the franchise, refining the mechanics and design established in Silent Assassin while revisiting the roots of Codename 47 in a way that feels fresh and polished. Despite some lingering technical hurdles and minor design quirks, it stands out for its improved gameplay, moody atmosphere, and a soundtrack that strikes the perfect balance between modernity and nostalgia. Whether you're a returning fan or a newcomer, Contracts offers a compelling experience that’s both challenging and rewarding, making it an essential chapter in the Hitman saga.