In recent years, the world has faced an array of challenges, from devastating floods and hurricanes to a political landscape that often feels disconnected from the realities of everyday life. As the climate grows increasingly erratic, many find solace in familiar routines, and for some, this has meant retreating into the immersive world of video games. One such game that has captured the attention of players is Hitman 3, a title that offers a unique blend of strategy, mastery, and a sense of control in an otherwise chaotic environment.
Death and the jet-set
At its core, Hitman 3 presents a captivating fantasy that resonates deeply during tumultuous times. While the game revolves around the premise of assassination, it is less about the act of murder and more about the thrill of navigating the intricate lives of the elite. Players engage in a form of slapstick justice, where the absurdity of the scenarios often mirrors the frustrations felt in the real world.
The game’s mechanics allow players to experiment with various approaches, providing a structured environment where they can learn from their mistakes and refine their strategies. This loop of attempting, learning, and retrying creates a comforting rhythm, akin to the cathartic experience of breaking plates in a rage room, rather than indulging in disturbing fantasies.
Each destination in the game is meticulously crafted, often reflecting the stark contrasts of wealth and poverty. For instance, in Mumbai, players are confronted with the glaring disparity between the opulence of their targets and the struggles of the surrounding population. Similarly, in Marrakech, the narrative thrusts players into the heart of political corruption, where they must confront a diplomat whose greed has ignited public outrage.
With the introduction of Freelancer Mode, the game takes a slightly different turn, shifting the focus from specific targets to randomly generated individuals. While this change may dilute the sense of class struggle that permeates the main narrative, it still retains an underlying theme of justice against those who exploit the vulnerable. The justification for these missions, framed within the context of a nefarious international syndicate, may not carry the same weight as the primary storylines, but it serves to maintain the game’s thematic integrity.
Moreover, the development journey of Hitman 1 through 3 reflects a broader commentary on societal inequities. The Isle of Sgàil mission, for example, evokes imagery reminiscent of clandestine gatherings, where the wealthy conspire to shift the burdens of climate change onto the less fortunate. In such scenarios, the identity of the target becomes secondary to the larger narrative of class justice, allowing players to feel as though they are striking a blow against systemic injustices.
