Hitman's first level, "A Murder in Paris," can feel overwhelming for newcomers. The sprawling Parisian mansion, packed with guards, civilians, and opportunities, can leave you feeling lost. But fear not, aspiring Agent 47! This guide will walk you through several approaches to successfully complete this iconic mission, whether you prefer a stealthy ghost or a more… direct approach.
Understanding the Level: Sapienza
Before diving in, let's understand the layout. The level is primarily set within a lavish Parisian mansion hosting a high-profile fashion show. This means plenty of disguises are available, and a high density of targets and NPCs. The key to success lies in observation and planning.
Key Locations & Opportunities:
- The Main Mansion: This is the central hub, offering numerous routes and disguises.
- The Fashion Show: A prime location for observing targets and executing plans.
- The Kitchen: A useful area for acquiring distractions and potentially poisoning food.
- The Gardens: Provides alternative routes and opportunities for eliminating targets discreetly.
Strategies for Success:
Here are a few approaches you can take, catering to different playstyles:
The Silent Assassin Approach:
This classic Hitman style prioritizes stealth and non-lethal takedowns.
Step 1: Reconnaissance: Spend time observing the targets' routines and identifying potential choke points. Note guard patrols and civilian traffic.
Step 2: Secure Disguises: Early on, acquire a waiter or caterer disguise. These provide access to most areas without raising suspicion.
Step 3: Eliminate Targets Strategically: Use your environment! Utilize hidden areas, distractions (like dropped objects), and well-placed accidents to eliminate targets without being detected.
Step 4: Maintain Stealth: Avoid direct confrontation. Utilize hiding spots and diversions to stay undetected. If spotted, quickly escape to a less-populated area and reassess your approach.
Pro Tip: The "Silent Assassin" rating is the ultimate goal. This requires eliminating both targets without raising suspicion or using lethal weapons other than your garrote wire.
The Opportunistic Approach:
This approach leverages the environment and accidental deaths.
Step 1: Identify Opportunities: The level is brimming with opportunities! Look for pre-existing accidents waiting to happen.
Step 2: Manipulate the Environment: Utilize tools and your surroundings to trigger these accidents. This could involve knocking over objects, tampering with electrical equipment, or even using the environment itself to eliminate your targets.
Step 3: Blend In: Once you've manipulated the environment, quickly blend back into the crowd before anyone realizes what's happened.
The "Loud" Approach (Not Recommended for Beginners):
While not the most efficient, a direct approach is possible. This involves using firearms or other lethal weapons. Be warned: this approach will likely result in a lower rating and a more challenging experience.
Mastering the Basics:
- Use Instinct: Agent 47's instinct allows you to highlight key interactable objects, potential routes, and enemy line of sight. Use this frequently to plan your moves.
- Experiment: Don't be afraid to try different approaches. Failure is part of the learning process.
- Save Often: Utilize the autosave and manual save features to avoid losing significant progress.
Beyond the Basics:
Once you've mastered the basics, try experimenting with different weapons and approaches. The level is designed to reward creativity and strategic thinking. Can you find new ways to eliminate your targets?
By understanding the layout, utilizing your tools, and approaching the level strategically, you'll be well on your way to mastering "A Murder in Paris" and progressing further in the world of Hitman. Good luck, Agent 47!
