IO Interactive Revives Original Hitman Trilogy for 2027

Key Takeaways

• The remaster includes Codename 47, Silent Assassin, and Contracts with new character models and high-resolution textures
• This marks the first time Hitman: Codename 47 will be playable on major modern consoles
• Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 are not part of launch plans, though Hitman: Absolution is getting Switch updates

What's in the Remaster

IO Interactive announced the Hitman Classic Trilogy Remastered during its recent showcase, revealing a partnership with Saber Interactive to bring the franchise's origins to current-generation hardware. The collection covers the first three games in the series: Hitman: Codename 47 (2000), Hitman 2: Silent Assassin (2002), and Hitman: Contracts (2004).

The remaster targets PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S with a 2027 launch window. No specific release date has been announced.

According to the Steam page, the collection includes new character models, high-resolution textures, and enhanced environments. IO Interactive is also adding an instant graphics toggle that lets players switch between original and remastered visuals, plus a photo mode.

“Discover the origins of the world's deadliest assassin with the trilogy that defined the Hitman series, remastered for modern platforms while preserving the systems, tone, and player-driven freedom that made the franchise iconic.”

— IO Interactive official description

Why This Matters for the Franchise

The original Hitman: Codename 47 has never been released on consoles. It launched exclusively on PC in 2000, meaning console players who discovered Agent 47 through later entries have never had a way to play where the series started. This remaster changes that.

IO Interactive is riding momentum from the recent release of 007 First Light, its James Bond game. The Copenhagen-based studio appears to be using this success to revisit its roots. The Hitman franchise built IO's reputation before the World of Assassination trilogy (Hitman 2016, Hitman 2, Hitman 3) brought the series to its commercial peak.

“We are thrilled to bring these foundational experiences to a new generation, working closely with IO Interactive to ensure the soul of the original games remains intact.”

— Saber Interactive Spokesperson

Saber Interactive has built a track record with remasters, making it a logical partner for this project. The studio's involvement suggests IO Interactive wants to maintain the original gameplay feel while updating the presentation.

Nintendo Switch Left Out, But Not Forgotten

Neither Nintendo Switch nor Switch 2 are part of the launch plans. IO Interactive and Saber have not explained why, and they haven't confirmed whether the collection will ever come to Nintendo platforms.

However, IO didn't ignore Nintendo players entirely. The studio announced that Hitman: Absolution will receive its Contracts mode on the original Switch "very soon," with a Switch 2 upgrade coming this summer.

Community Response

Early reactions on Reddit and gaming forums show excitement about finally seeing Codename 47 on consoles. Some veteran players are expressing cautious optimism about how the remasters will handle the original games' controls and difficulty.

The early Hitman titles played very differently from the modern World of Assassination games. Controls were clunkier, mission design was more punishing, and the overall experience was less forgiving. Whether Saber and IO will modernize these elements or keep them faithful to the originals remains unclear.

What to Expect Next

The Steam page for Hitman Classic Trilogy Remastered is now live with side-by-side screenshots showing the visual upgrades. IO Interactive will likely share more details as the 2027 release window approaches.

For now, players can check out IO's post-launch roadmap for 007 First Light to see what the studio has planned for its other major franchise.

Frequently Asked Questions

What games are included in Hitman Classic Trilogy Remastered?

The collection includes Hitman: Codename 47, Hitman 2: Silent Assassin, and Hitman: Contracts, the first three games in the franchise.

When does Hitman Classic Trilogy Remastered release?

IO Interactive has announced a 2027 launch window but no specific release date.

What platforms will the Hitman remaster be available on?

The collection is coming to PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S. Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 are not currently planned.

Is this the first time Hitman: Codename 47 will be on consoles?

Yes. The original game released exclusively on PC in 2000 and has never been available on console platforms until this remaster.

Who is developing the Hitman Classic Trilogy Remastered?

Saber Interactive is handling the remaster in partnership with IO Interactive, the original developers of the Hitman series.

Source: IGN All