Codename 47 was a unique and mind-blowing take on the stealth genre and it was an ambitious showcase of what the stealth genre was capable of in the gaming industry.
But unfortunately, the game hasn't quite aged the way we'd have hoped and has only gotten worse as more HITMAN games have come out. But even for the time, Codename 47 felt more like a proof of concept rather than a polished and fully fledged - "fun" - game.
The game showcased its impressive physics engine and introduced some unique ideas that needed a bit more time for refinement - which its sequel definitely did with grand spectacle for the time.
The ideas are there and the execution is as well, although to a lesser extent. What makes this game rough around the edges is the lack of polish in a variety of aspects. The overall presentation - except the forever impressive soundtrack - is just a bit choppy and incoherent. But when the game does something right, IT DOES IT RIGHT. When things get good in this game, the true potential of the series shines through and it's a blast.
The storytelling is pretty good, although the voice acting is quite rough. The art direction still has a vibrant and memorable charm to it. The level design is pretty good - MOST of the time. The gameplay is also pretty good - MOST of the time.
Overall, HITMAN: Codename 47 is nothing but a proof of concept for an innovative take on the stealth genre which would spawn an iconic and long running series that would only get better and better with time.