Hitman: Blood Money Review

Hitman: Blood Money, developed by IO Interactive and published by Eidos Interactive (now Square Enix), landed on the PlayStation 2 (PS2) in 2006. Widely regarded as one of the finest entries in the series, Hitman Blood Money PS2 perfected the formula of its predecessors, offering intricate stealth sandbox levels, unparalleled freedom of approach, and a darkly humorous narrative that cemented Agent 47‘s iconic status. This Hitman Blood Money PS2 review explores why it remains a beloved classic PS2 game.

Gameplay: Disguises, Accidents, and Notoriety

At its core, Hitman: Blood Money is a masterclass in assassination game design. Each mission presents a complex, multi-layered environment – from a bustling opera house in Paris to a Mardi Gras parade in New Orleans and a suburban neighborhood in the USA. Players are given targets and an objective, but the “how” is entirely up to them, fostering immense replayability.

Agent 47‘s signature tools are his cunning, his vast array of gadgets, and his ability to utilize disguises. Blending in with the crowd, stealing uniforms, and exploiting environmental opportunities are key to success. The game introduces the brilliant “Notoriety System,” where your actions (e.g., leaving witnesses, being seen on camera) increase your notoriety, making future missions harder. This encourages players to strive for the coveted “Silent Assassin” rating by making kills look like accidents. The ability to upgrade weapons and gear between missions adds a satisfying layer of progression. The PS2 version, while a cross-gen title, performed admirably, delivering the intricate simulations and detailed environments effectively.

• Complex, open-ended stealth sandbox levels
• Innovative Notoriety System impacting gameplay
• Emphasis on “accident” kills for Silent Assassin rating
• Deep disguise mechanics and environmental interaction
• Weapon customization and upgrades between missions

Story and Setting: A Conspiracy Unravels

The narrative of Hitman: Blood Money sees Agent 47 caught in a deadly conspiracy. Members of his agency, the ICA, are being systematically eliminated by a rival organization known as “The Franchise.” As 47 uncovers the truth, he’s forced to navigate a treacherous world of espionage and betrayal, culminating in a dramatic and memorable climax.

The plot takes players across various global settings, each meticulously designed and filled with unique characters and opportunities. The series’ signature blend of serious espionage and dry, dark humor is ever-present, adding personality to the world and its inhabitants.

Graphics and Sound: Atmospheric and Iconic

Visually, Hitman: Blood Money on the PS2 was impressive for its time. The graphics were detailed, with well-rendered character models and intricate environments that felt alive with bustling crowds and subtle details. The game’s art direction perfectly captured the grim elegance of the Hitman universe.

The sound design is exceptional. Every whispered conversation, distant gunshot, and environmental sound effect contributes to the atmosphere. Jesper Kyd’s iconic score is a masterpiece, perfectly complementing the tension of a stealth approach and the drama of a successful assassination. The voice acting is solid, bringing the diverse cast to life.

Legacy: The Fan Favorite

Hitman: Blood Money is often cited by fans as the pinnacle of the classic Hitman formula. Its refinements to gameplay, the innovative Notoriety System, and its memorable missions solidified its place as a gaming masterpiece and an influential stealth game. It remains a benchmark for the genre and a testament to IO Interactive’s design philosophy.

Is Hitman: Blood Money on PS2 Worth Playing Today?

Absolutely. For fans of stealth games, sandbox games, or anyone who enjoys immense gameplay freedom, Hitman: Blood Money on PS2 is a must-play. Its meticulously crafted levels, endless replayability, and satisfying assassination game mechanics offer countless hours of tactical fun. It’s a true classic PS2 game that continues to deliver a masterclass in professional assassination.