Hitman patch removes DRM, tweaks game; First location available for free on Xbox One, PS4, PC

The developers behind IO Interactive have broken away from Square Enix, after the publisher announced that they would be selling off the Hitman, and have managed to retain the rights to Hitman at the same time. The freshly independent Hitman developer has released the first post-Square Enix patch for Hitman and it packs quite the punch.

The update removes Denuvo anti-tamper technology (DRM), resolves unfair issues, tweaks a couple things, and adds Global Hints.

As far as the removal of DRM, it's unclear if it was an accident or not. We might see the technology implemented back into the game, as the removal as not noted in the patch notes. Below, you can see the update's notes, which offers some insight on the game changes.

• Global Hints
  We’ve added a new system of global hints that will explain some of the game’s mechanics to new players.
  These can be toggled in the settings menu and are set to ‘On’ by default.
• The Adrian Eclipse
  We’ve fixed an issue that could cause this contract to be ‘failed’ unfairly. We removed it from the game in March and now it’s back in. Find it under the Paris Destination.
• Bootflow Options
  We’ve tweaked the bootflow of the game with a new background and shortened the time it takes to get into the game.
• Suit Only, Hunted
  We’ve fixed an issue that could cause the ‘Hunted’ state to apply to 47’s suit, even if he was wearing a different disguise when compromised.
• Bareknuckle Boxer
  We’ve fixed an issue that could make it impossible for 47 to poison Novikov’s drink in The Showstopper during the ‘A Drink to Die For’ opportunity.
• Steam Achievement Localisation
  We’ve updated the localized names and descriptions of the Steam achievements.
• Menu Tweaks
  We’ve made minor tweaks to the overall menus, especially the Options Menu to ensure consistency when selecting buttons.

In addition to this update, Xbox One, PS4, and PC players can now play the beginning of Hitman for free.

[DSOGaming]