In Hitman 3’s Freelancer game mode, the absence of automatic target highlighting presents a significant departure from the main campaign. Players must rely on observation, gathered intel, and their own deductions to identify and eliminate their assigned marks. This mechanic necessitates a more cautious and methodical approach, demanding that players analyze crowds, eavesdrop on conversations, and study disguise opportunities to pinpoint their targets without assistance.
This change enhances the strategic depth and replayability of Freelancer. It encourages players to develop a keen eye for detail and adapt their strategies based on the information they uncover. The increased challenge fosters a more immersive and suspenseful experience, rewarding careful planning and execution. Historically, the Hitman series has offered optional challenges that restrict or remove target highlighting, but Freelancer integrates this concept as a core gameplay element, pushing players to embody the role of a true assassin.