Hitman 3: Freelancer looks like an entirely new game in recent trailer

IO Interactive has debuted a new trailer giving Hitman 3 players an in-depth look at the game’s upcoming Freelancer mode. From what we’ve seen, other than the fact that there are no new maps, Freelancer almost looks like a entirely new game.

In essence, Freelancer is a roguelike mode within Hitman 3 that lets you earn new gear and equipment for Agent 47’s safehouse—gear that you can then use to complete more missions. Essentially, each Freelancer run tasks you with taking out four different crime syndicates. You’ll do so by killing lower-level syndicate members to draw out each syndicate’s leader. One by one, you’ll complete assignments to eliminate leaders and eventually complete a Freelancer run.

Of course, it won’t be so easy. You’ll start with practically nothing and have to earn in-game currency called Mersa to purchase more gear. Each time you eliminate a syndicate member, you will also get a delivery that lets you choose one of three items like mines or remote explosives to bring on your next job. If you find or purchase weapons on a mission, you can always bring that back to the safehouse and store it, or let 47 hold onto it for the next mission.

Other than these roguelike elements, Freelancer offers a few more twists on the Hitman formula. You will find new NPCs on the map that can help or hinder you. Couriers are additional targets holding Mersa that you can steal from them. (Don’t worry, I’m sure they deserved it.) You can then take that stolen Mersa to a Supplier and purchase tools of the trade from them. There are also new safes on each map that you can crack, but the trailer skimps on the details about that one. Finally, syndicate leaders will have assassins protecting them. These tougher enemies hide in plain sight, so you’ll want to watch your back.

Finally, each syndicate leader mission will provide an extra challenge. The map won’t show you where your target’s located, so you’ll have to take the clues the game gives you and your trusty camera to find a few suspects and determine which one is your target. If you fail these missions, you’ll have to start your run all over, so choose wisely.

Freelancer mode will launch on January 26th, 2023 as a free update for Hitman 3, but you don’t necessarily have to wait that long to play it. Players can sign up for the closed technical test, which will run from November 3rd to November 7th.

Hitman 3 is available on Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5, Switch, Xbox One, PS4, and PC.