Agent 47, a character from the Hitman video game franchise, is a professional and highly skilled assassin. His distinctive bald head, barcoded tattoo, and sharp suit are well-recognized traits among fans of the series. Born from a genetic experiment, he possesses enhanced physical and mental abilities, ideal for the meticulous and stealthy nature of his assignments.
Throughout the games, novels, and even films that have been produced about this mysterious figure, Agent 47 remains a complex character driven by a narrative that explores themes of identity and morality. He is known for his resourcefulness, able to turn almost any object into a weapon, and his ability to seamlessly blend into his surroundings to eliminate targets without raising suspicion.
Key Takeaways
- Agent 47 is known for his efficiency and iconic appearance.
- His creation was the result of genetic experimentation.
- His stories often delve into personal identity and ethical questions.
Origins of Agent 47
In the world of covert operations and shadowy assassins, few figures are as enigmatic as Agent 47. His life story is a blend of advanced science and mystery, starting from his creation in a Romanian laboratory to becoming the ultimate hitman.
Creation and Early Life
Agent 47, the protagonist of the Hitman video game series from IO Interactive, is not your ordinary man. Born from a genetic experiment in a lab, he is a clone, engineered for perfection in the arts of stealth and elimination. His striking feature is a barcode tattooed on the back of his head, symbolizing both his origin in a lab and his lack of personal identity. The numbers “640509-040147” denote his creation date, series, and that he was the 47th experiment. Dr. Ort-Meyer, the mastermind behind his creation, intended to develop the perfect assassin.
Notable Abilities and Traits
Genetically designed for strength and intelligence, Agent 47 stands out for his extraordinary abilities. His genetically engineered nature has endowed him with peak human strength, speed, reflexes, stamina, and intelligence. These traits allow him to excel as a hitman, effectively turning him into a ghost within the criminal underworld.
The Ascent of a Ghost
His rise to the status of a legendary hitman was not without challenges. Von a young age, he was trained to harness his abilities and operate under the radar. Despite the rigorous training and conditioning in the lab, Agent 47’s skills in disguise and stealth have made him virtually invisible in a world that is blind to his movements, thus earning him the title of a “ghost” in the hitman scene.
Key Relationships
His only connection to a regular human life is through his handler at the International Contract Agency (ICA), which is often referred to simply as the Agency. According to Giant Bomb, his handler, named Diana Burnwood, acts as his guide and sometimes his conscience. Their relationship is strictly professional, with Diana providing Agent 47 the details of his contracts and tasks. His past, intertwined with Dr. Ort-Meyer and the Agency, creates a complex dynamic where loyalty and trust are as valuable as his sharpshooting skills.
Agent 47 in Action
Agent 47, the formidable protagonist of the Hitman series, executes high-stakes missions with unmatched precision. As an accomplished assassin, he engages in a series of signature contracts, utilizing an expansive skill set and advanced equipment, while impacting the wider media landscape.
Signature Missions and Contracts
Agent 47 takes on contracts through the International Contract Agency, setting a benchmark for stealth and efficiency in the process. Noteworthy missions include eliminating the criminal Lee Hong, the drug lord Pablo Belisario Ochoa, and the arms dealer Arkadij Jegorov. Each mission is often hailed as a puzzle, requiring the player to intelligently navigate complex environments and devise unique strategies to reach targets undetected.
Notable Skills and Equipment
A hallmark of Agent 47’s inventory is the AMT Hardballer pistols, often referred to as the Silverballers. His sniper rifle, precision and stealth tactics showcase his reputation as a silent assassin. Equipped with disguises, fiber wire, and a myriad of tools, he can manipulate his environment, emphasize empathy to charm potential informants, or elicit fear in his adversaries. These skills also hint at his enhanced senses and strength, enabling him to overpower foes and execute clean assassinations.
Influence and Impact in Media
Beyond video games like Hitman II and Hitman III, this cold and reserved character has reached a broader audience with films, novels, and additional media. David Bateson has become the iconic voice associated with Agent 47, bringing a neutral, professional, and emotionless quality that fans have admired over the years. His presence in media has cemented the character as a perfect assassin, embodying the ideal traits of a master spy and infiltrator in the world of assassination.
Frequently Asked Questions
Agent 47, the master assassin from the Hitman video game series, has piqued the interest of many gamers. Below you’ll find answers to some of the most common questions about his background, characteristics, and more.
What is the origin story of Agent 47?
He was born in a Romanian asylum with the number 640509-040147 tattooed on his head. This code indicates his creation date, series number, and the fact that he was the 47th clone made in that series.
Does Agent 47 have a canonical full name?
Agent 47 doesn’t have a traditional full name. He is known simply by his code name, which reflects his status as a clone and his anonymity as a professional hitman.
How old is Agent 47 and does his age affect his abilities?
Born on September 5, 1964, Agent 47 maintains peak physical condition despite being in his 50s. He possesses the attributes of a man in his 20s, suggesting his age doesn’t adversely affect his performance.
What are the distinctive personality traits of Agent 47?
Agent 47 is calm, methodical, and highly efficient. He approaches his contracts with precision and prefers to work quietly without attracting attention.
What is the significance of Agent 47 being bald in the Hitman series?
His baldness is one of Agent 47’s most recognizable features. It adds to his distinctive, menacing appearance and is likely intended to make him less identifiable, thus better for his line of work.
How is Agent 47 depicted in terms of morality; is he portrayed as a villain or a hero?
Agent 47 is depicted as a neutral figure within the world of assassination. He’s not traditionally a hero but is also not seen as an outright villain. He operates within the grey area of morality, fulfilling contracts without personal judgment.
