IO Interactive Finds New Partner/Announces Hitman: Definitive Edition!

Whenever you hear about a publisher distancing themselves from a developer, it usually spells doom for the developer. That wasn’t the case with IO Interactive though. Not only did they stay whole while separating from Square Enix, but they also kept the rights to the Hitman IP. This of course, allowed them to operate more freely; IOI would stay independent while searching for new partnerships. Fast forward to today’s announcement – IOI has partnered with Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment on a worldwide publishing and distribution agreement for their Hitman series – and we can see how their newfound freedom has paid off!

As part of the agreement, Warner Bros. will publish the Hitman: Definitive Edition. Featuring new in-game disguises inspired by past IOI titles (Freedome Fighters, Kane & Lynch, Mini Ninjas) as well as all of the previously released content, gamers will be able to experience the best version of Hitman come May.

“We’re super excited to be working with Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment on HITMAN and together releasing the HITMAN: Definitive Edition to new players,” said Hakan Abrak, CEO IO Interactive. “Working with a partner like WBIE means that the team at IOI can stay focused on what we’re good at, making games.”

This partnership seems ideal. Like Hakan Abrak said, IOI can focus on making games while Warner handles the rest. There’s no pressure to create what WB wants and their IP is safe. Everyone wins. That said, I wonder if this deal will extend to other franchises. At the very least, we should get another Hitman sooner than later right? One can hope…

Hitman: Definitive Edition will be available on May 15th, for the Xbox One and PS4 (there’s no word on a possible PC version). If you haven’t read our reviews of each Hitman episode, feel free check them out here.