Hitman: World of Assassination Reaches 75 Million Players
IO Interactive proudly announced that Hitman: World of Assassination has surpassed a remarkable 75 million players. This achievement encompasses players who utilized the free starter pack and those who accessed the game through Xbox Game Pass during its two-year availability. This milestone likely solidifies World of Assassination as IO Interactive's most successful game to date.
It's important to note that World of Assassination isn't a single game, but a compilation of the latest Hitman trilogy. Following the release of Hitman 3, IO Interactive bundled the three titles into a single package, while maintaining the option for individual purchases. This combined trilogy launched on PC and consoles in January 2023 and expanded to the Meta Quest 3 in September 2024.
The January 10th announcement on Twitter highlighted the "monumental" achievement and IO Interactive's strong business position. While specific sales figures weren't disclosed, Hitman 3's strong performance in markets like the UK likely contributed significantly to the overall player count.
Key Factors Contributing to Success: Xbox Game Pass and Free Starter Pack
The game's two-year presence on Xbox Game Pass, ending in January 2024, played a crucial role in reaching this milestone. Equally significant is the free starter pack offered since the 2021 launch, along with free demos for the first two trilogy entries, which broadened the game's reach.
Future of the Hitman Franchise: A Temporary Pause
While Hitman: World of Assassination continues to receive content updates (including Elusive Targets), IO Interactive is currently focusing on other projects. The studio is developing Project 007, a James Bond game, and Project Fantasy, a new IP exploring a fantastical setting, pushing the studio beyond its established expertise. These endeavors suggest a temporary hiatus for the Hitman franchise, though the continued support for World of Assassination indicates ongoing commitment to the series' existing fanbase.