Hitman World of Assassination Makes Native Debut on Nintendo Switch 2: IO Interactive Addresses Past Cloud Version Challenges

IO Interactive is set to make a significant return to Nintendo hardware with the announcement that Hitman World of Assassination will launch natively on Nintendo Switch 2.

This news marks a pivotal moment for fans and the developer alike, following the prior release of Hitman 3 Cloud Version on the original Nintendo Switch in early 2021.

That release, part of a broader initiative to bring technologically demanding games to the console via cloud streaming, encountered challenges that both Nintendo and IO Interactive have since acknowledged. Hitman 3 Cloud Version brought the acclaimed stealth franchise to the Nintendo Switch, but the cloud-based delivery faced issues such as inconsistent performance and a reliance on stable internet connections.

IO Interactive CEO Hakan Abrak addressed the shortcomings in a recent interview with The Game Business, noting that the experience "did not meet Nintendo's expectations for success." Abrak described the situation as “unfinished business,” expressing a strong desire to revisit the Switch platform with a more robust, native solution that honors the legacy of the series and its dedicated playerbase. "Nintendo previously offered a cloud solution on the original Switch, allowing us to bring Hitman to the system through streaming technology.

However, the results were not as successful as hoped," Abrak explained.

"We believed it was unfortunate that the game was unable to reach its full potential, and it became clear to us that we owed our fans another attempt—this time with a native version on Nintendo Switch 2 that truly takes advantage of the hardware.

The wider suite of Hitman modes also suits the versatility of the new system, especially for players on-the-go." The move to develop Hitman World of Assassination specifically for Nintendo Switch 2 ensures fans can experience the complete game without the limitations of cloud streaming.

This native approach leverages the enhanced capabilities of the upcoming platform, addressing fans’ longstanding requests for a full-featured Hitman experience on Nintendo’s portable hardware.

Since its initial release, the Hitman series has achieved strong worldwide sales and critical acclaim, with IO Interactive continually iterating on its stealth-action formula. In addition to Hitman World of Assassination, IO Interactive has confirmed that its next major project, First Light 007, will also be coming to the Nintendo Switch 2.

The developer recently unveiled the first trailer for First Light 007, further underscoring IO Interactive’s commitment to supporting the next generation of Nintendo consoles. Nintendo Switch 2 is anticipated to deliver improved technical specs and greater support for ambitious third-party titles, with more announcements expected in upcoming Nintendo Direct presentations.

Fans eager for high-quality stealth adventures—and the return of classic franchises—can look forward to an exciting new era as IO Interactive brings its industry-leading expertise to Nintendo’s next flagship device.

Nintendo Switch 2 Nintendo Switch Nintendo IO Interactive Switch 2 Hitman World of Assassination Switch Hitman Hitman 3 Cloud Version First Light 007 Hakan Abrak