IO Interactive brings Hitman: World of Assassination Signature Edition to Nintendo Switch 2, but it’s not quite the tailor-made port fans hoped for. While the complete reboot trilogy is present, the game key card requirement and lack of console-specific features make this release feel more like a direct transfer than a next-gen Switch showcase.
Players expecting a full physical cartridge may be disappointed. Like several recent Switch 2 games, the Signature Edition uses a game key card, meaning a hefty 61 GB download is required. It’s the second largest install size on the platform, just behind Split Fiction, and raises frustration among physical collectors.
No mouse or gyro aiming for Agent 47 (Hitman: World of Assassination Switch 2 Review)
Switch 2’s unique control features are largely ignored. The Joy-Con 2’s mouse mode? Not supported. Gyro aiming and touchscreen menus? Also absent. That’s a missed opportunity for a game that relies heavily on precision and fast menu access. While the Joy-Cons themselves feel better than the original Switch, the control scheme sticks to standard analog inputs.
Thankfully, the game includes sensitivity options and button remapping. Detaching the Joy-Cons feels ergonomic, and grip play works well for more intense missions. But the absence of more advanced control schemes holds back what could have been a uniquely Nintendo experience.
Handheld shines over docked mode
Where the port truly impresses is in handheld mode. Despite dropping the resolution to 720p, the new HDR screen shows off vibrant reflections, shadows, and detail comparable to PS4 Pro visuals. The experience is immersive, especially with the system’s 3D directional audio. It noticeably enhances situational awareness—ideal for a stealth-heavy game like Hitman.
In contrast, docked mode feels inferior. The game outputs at 1080p or higher, but without ray tracing and with no support for variable refresh rate (VRR), frame stuttering becomes an issue. Ironically, handheld mode avoids this thanks to Switch 2’s built-in VRR, making it the better way to play.
Some crashes, no cross-progression
The Signature Edition crashed twice during long play sessions—once in the tutorial and once during a main mission. Not ideal, but not game-breaking either. More frustrating is the lack of cross-progression. Even with an IOI account linked, you can’t bring your save data from other platforms. For a game so dependent on mastery and unlocks, starting from scratch feels like a setback.
There was some concern about saved files being locked online-only, but a recent update may have fixed this. At time of writing, players can load previously online saves while offline. However, the live service nature of World of Assassination still means offline players miss out on many side challenges and rotating missions.
Signature Edition content still holds up (Hitman: World of Assassination Switch 2 Review)
What hasn’t changed is the core of Hitman: World of Assassination: brilliantly designed sandbox missions. Each location is a puzzle box of possibility. Disguises, environmental traps, and carefully timed executions make each contract feel personal and rewarding. The narrative is minimal, but the creativity is unmatched.
Replayability remains one of the game’s strongest traits. As you level up location mastery, you unlock alternate paths, tools, and outfits. Mission stories offer guided, semi-scripted sequences to explore more cinematic hits, while dozens of unscripted routes reward experimentation.
Good port, but not a definitive version
This is a generous package for Switch 2 players, containing all three modern Hitman titles. It’s a performance-competent stealth sandbox that fits well into handheld gaming. The absence of Nintendo-specific control innovations, however, limits its potential. The game plays best in handheld mode due to reduced stutter, but docked play suffers from VRR limitations.
For fans looking to experience Agent 47’s modern trilogy on the go, this is a solid choice. Just be prepared for some compromises.
