The worst thing about the excellent Hitman 3 was that it had to end. The developer IO Interactive could only create a limited number of levels, the slowest ones. Now, however, the developer has announced a release date for a new endless killing campaign: Freelancer mode.
The exclusive Freelancer mode will be part of a patch for all current and future owners of Hitman 3. Set after the events of the main game, you return to the shining shoes of Agent 47, enjoying the quiet life, or what counts as a Quiet life for a globe-trotting assassin.
This new mode shows you what the daily life of a contract killer is like: undertaking a constant stream of stealthy missions and taking out lower level targets. You will be able to equip his shelter and prepare weapons to take with him in contracts that will cover the entire world; we'll go crazy in 19 unique places, in fact.
The closed beta test ended on November 7, but don't worry if you didn't make it through an invite. IO Interactive's winter roadmap (opens in a new tab) has helped us target more effectively, so you can expect to load into the Freelancer roguelite mode starting January 26, 2023.
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(Image credit: IO Interactive A/S)set up shop
Freelancer is quite different from the main campaign. Instead of playing through scripted missions, you are given a set of procedurally generated stages to complete. The winter roadmap specifies that all contracts will be signed from your one-stop shop for everything related to the self-employed: your refuge.
You will be able to choose from a variety of contracts, each consisting of multiple quests that you can complete in any order, though you must complete them all (or die trying) before returning to your haven. If you're successful, you'll get a lot of blood money to spend redecorating your safe house away from home.
Although the maps may look familiar, keep an eye out. Freelancer mode has a few surprises, including new NPCs and helpful vendors that can help Agent 47 reach his goal. On the contrary, they might end up betraying him in the end. You will have to watch your tempting knife back.
You will also accumulate XP that will go towards your independent domain. Mastery is unlocked by completing various missions and challenges, with 100 levels to clear before becoming the ultimate assassin. Keep in mind, however, that any XP earned from going through the 25 levels available in beta mode will not be added to your mastery level when the full version of Freelancer launches on January 26.
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(Image credit: Interactive IO)47 reasons why
Although Hitman 3 only came out last year, you'll have plenty of competition in the new year if you want to avoid being knocked off your playlist for one of the best games yet to come.
Freelancer mode is a clever idea from the team at IO Interactive to keep us entertained, giving us something new to dig our crosses into as we close out another chapter in the saga of the world's toughest and sharpest hit man. Personalizing your home is really just the icing on the cake.