Starbreeze Studios has pulled the curtain back on an unexpected yet exciting collaboration between their heist shooter, Payday 3, and the 2012 indie hit, Hotline Miami. It’s been quite some time since Hotline Miami was in the spotlight, making its appearance in Payday 3 a delightful treat for fans.
Since its launch, Payday 3 has struggled to hit its stride. It faced a mixed reception, lacking the depth and variety that Payday 2 offered, leaving many to question the leap to a new installment. For a brief moment in 2024, the game saw a glimmer of hope with “Mostly Positive” reviews on Steam, but it soon slipped back to “Mixed.” Despite this, Starbreeze Studios remains committed to improving Payday 3, undeterred by its rocky start.
The buzz grew when a new trailer hit the internet, revealing that Payday 3 would be joining forces with Hotline Miami. This collaboration introduces the iconic, faceless protagonist, Jacket, into the game, along with a host of new weapons. The highlight is the Sociopath, an Overkill Weapon that mirrors Jacket’s signature baseball bat from Hotline Miami. Mark your calendars for February 3, when the Jacket Character Pack arrives for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC.
This isn’t the first time these two games have teamed up. Back in 2014, Payday 2 also featured a Hotline Miami DLC, at a time when the hype for Hotline Miami was high, and its sequel was in the works. With nearly a decade since a new Hotline Miami game, its return is both surprising and welcome. More content from this beloved indie game is always a cause for celebration.
Looking ahead, the future for Payday 3 is uncertain. While the series still holds significant name recognition, the tumultuous launch of Payday 3 poses a challenge. As 2024 came to a close, it was announced that the game would receive reduced investment, worrying signs for devoted fans. Nevertheless, Starbreeze Studios is optimistic about delivering value to its players, even though there’s a long road ahead to match the legacy of its predecessor.
For those interested in revisiting the criminal escapades of the Payday Gang or diving into the fray for the first time, the options are endless. Whether you choose to sneak through heists or go in guns blazing, Payday 3 offers a dynamic playground for your criminal imagination. Plus, with cross-platform play available on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S, players have plenty of ways to team up with friends and explore new opportunities to make their mark on the game.
