Hitman: Absolution is a 2012 developed by and published by 's . It is the fifth installment in the series and the sequel to 2006's . Before release, the developers stated that Absolution would be easier to play and more accessible, while still retaining hardcore aspects of the franchise. The game was released on 20 November 2012 (which is in the 47th week of the year in reference to the , ) for , , and . On 15 May 2014, Hitman: Absolution – Elite Edition was released for by ; it contained all previously released downloadable content, including Hitman: Sniper Challenge, a "making of" documentary, and a 72-page artbook.Hitman: Absolution is a stealth game in which the player assumes the role of a named . Presented from a , the centers around completing set objectives within a series of . Objectives can range from simply reaching the end of the level, to eliminating specific individuals. The players choose how to complete each level, taking branching paths to get to a target or location. Players may use pistols, bottles or bricks, assault rifles, shotguns, fiber-wire, or steel pipe against enemies if opting for the action-oriented approach, or avoid enemies altogether, not being seen, using disguises, blending into the environment, and only attacking the set target(s), if using the stealth-oriented approach.