HItman: Absolution

The gameplay is focused on infiltrating locations, taking out specific targets, and escaping undetected. Players can choose from different approaches, including stealth and non-lethal kills, which are rewarded more highly than using violence. Missions are linked together by sections where 47 travels to new locations. Points are scored based on completing primary and secondary objectives, as well as the chosen method. Upgrades can be unlocked using points, enhancing Agent 47's skills such as reduced visibility or increased accuracy.

The core gameplay involves looking for cover, taking out and dragging people out of sight, and performing acrobatic maneuvers. Certain parts of the environment can be used to jump or hang on ledges, but not everything. The Instinct feature shows whether a part of the environment can be used or not. Instinct can also be used to activate Point Shooting, allowing Agent 47 to stop time and mark opponents for quick killing. Other Instinct features include looking through walls and using bluff tactics.

Agent 47's main weapon is the Silverballer pistol with a silencer, which can be equipped in pairs. Additional weapons and gadgets such as piano strings and environmental items like bottles and bricks are available to use or throw as distractions. Enemies often patrol in groups, requiring isolation and study of their movement patterns. Strangled enemies can be killed or left unconscious, and must always be hidden to avoid alarms.

The game features an asynchronous multiplayer mode called Contracts, where players can create custom tasks for others to complete. Players can mark targets, determine the method of killing, and compete with other players to achieve the best results. Up to three victims can be assigned to a single Contract.