14 DAY TRIAL // We've seen a lot of pre-order bonuses appear for all sorts of games, but this new one for Hitman: Absolution from GameStop is certainly the most impressive, as customers get a free game with their actual orders, in the form of Hitman: Sniper Challenge.
Hitman: Absolution is out later this year, on November 20, and it will let players once again guide Agent 47 on a new series of adventures that, as always, involve him killing lots of enemies through stealthy and quite violent ways.
We've already seen details about a special Hitman: Absolution Professional Edition last month, but now publisher Square Enix and retailer GameStop have unveiled a very special pre-order promotion for the regular game.
Those who pre-purchase Hitman: Absolution from GameStop in North America will receive a free mini-game called Hitman: Sniper Challenge.
"Hitman: Sniper Challenge is not part of the main game, but a stand-alone experience to reward fans who pre-order Hitman: Absolution," the company said. "Players can don the suit of Agent 47 as he takes on an exclusive assassination assignment. From a balcony overlooking a rooftop gathering, players will be tasked with taking out Richard Strong, Jr., CEO of Stallion Armaments, along with his entire staff of bodyguards."
"Skilled players will capitalize on score multipliers, hidden secrets, unlock equipment upgrades and marvel at the many creative ways one can discretely dispose of a body while they work to fulfil their contract in the most efficient way possible."
What's more, Sniper Challenge will also have online leaderboards and Square Enix will offer monthly prizes for the best snipers. At the end of the promotion, the most proficient killer will be awarded a trip to Copenhagen, Denmark, where he or she will meet up with IO Interactive, the developer of Hitman: Absolution.
Once the full game is out, those who played Hitman: Sniper Challenge will be able to carry over both the Kazo TRG sniper rifle used in this experience, as well as all of the upgrades and unlockables from the mini-game.
The best part about Hitman: Sniper Challenge, however, is the fact that it's going to be made available next week, on May 15, for those who pre-order Absolution on PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360, while PC owners will have to wait until August 1.
For a look at Hitman: Sniper Challenge in action, check out the video below.
