Arriving on the gaming scene like a stealthy assassin, the original “Assassin’s Creed” captured attention worldwide with its innovative blend of history, sci-fi, and parkour-laden action sequences. It wasn’t just a game; it was the foundation of a phenomenal series that ventured from consoles to comic books, even inspiring a Hollywood film adaptation.
As we anticipate the arrival of “Assassin’s Creed Shadows” for PlayStation 5 on March 20, let’s arm ourselves with knowledge about the series’ 13 core titles, starting with the pioneering game that set it all in motion.
### Assassin’s Creed – 2007 – PlayStation 3 – Ubisoft
In its debut, “Assassin’s Creed” introduced us to Altaïr Ibn-La’Ahad, a 12th-century assassin brought to life through the eyes of his 21st-century descendant, Desmond Miles, via the Animus. This contraption allowed Desmond to relive Altaïr’s genetic memories, weaving a narrative that dances between the Third Crusade and a contemporary storyline.
### Assassin’s Creed II – 2009/2016 – PlayStation 3/4 – Ubisoft
Ezio Auditore da Firenze took the spotlight in the Italian Renaissance, as this sequel expanded Desmond’s modern saga. With cameos from historical figures like Leonardo da Vinci and a plot full of vengeance, this installment quickly earned its place as a fan favorite, further refining the franchise’s trademark allure.
### Assassin’s Creed Brotherhood – 2010/2016 – PlayStation 3/4 – Ubisoft
Following directly from its predecessor, “Brotherhood” saw Ezio recruiting for the Assassin Brotherhood in Rome. With new notoriety mechanics, it introduced horseback assassinations, crossbows, and silent darts. Noteworthy was the introduction of multiplayer modes, letting players vanish into crowds after a successful stealth attack.
### Assassin’s Creed Revelations – 2011/2016 – PlayStation 3/4 – Ubisoft
Culminating the Ezio saga, “Revelations” journeyed to Constantinople. Here, an aging Ezio sought keys to unlock a library that could end the Assassin-Templar war. The game advanced mobility and combat techniques, while Desmond faced mental peril, needing full Animus synchronization to survive.
### Assassin’s Creed III – 2012/2019 – PlayStation 3/4 – Ubisoft
The series crossed the Atlantic, spotlighting North America with Desmond tackling an impending cataclysm. Through 18th-century Haytham Kenway and his son Connor, players experienced novel gameplay in wilderness settings, enhanced combat, hunting, and dramatic weather effects—a revolutionary chapter indeed.
### Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag – 2013 – PlayStation 3/4 – Ubisoft
“Black Flag” embraced maritime adventure on a grand scale, giving Edward Kenway a pirate’s freedom across the Caribbean. Combining sea battles and quests with land exploration, it expanded players’ horizons with incredible agility and flexibility.
### Assassin’s Creed Rogue – 2014/2018 – PlayStation 3/4 – Ubisoft
Turning tables, “Rogue” gave players control of Shay Patrick Cormac, a defector from the Assassins to the Templars. It kept previous elements like naval combat while introducing scenarios where assassins became threats to stop.
### Assassin’s Creed Unity – 2014 – PlayStation 4 – Ubisoft
Shifting to Revolutionary Paris, “Unity” offered groundbreaking mechanics like a co-op campaign. With a fresh game engine and an emphasis on teamwork and customization, it brought a new edge to Arno Dorian’s adventures.
### Assassin’s Creed Syndicate – 2015 – PlayStation 4 – Ubisoft
The Victorian era arrived with twins Jacob and Evie Frye, introducing player-switching. Their mission to liberate London featured innovative mechanics like carriage transport and cunning ‘kidnapping’ blends into the game.
### Assassin’s Creed Origins – 2017 – PlayStation 4 – Ubisoft
Diving deeper into ancient history, “Origins” charted the origins of the iconic Brotherhood and Order of the Ancients. Set in Egypt, it introduced RPG elements, comprehensive crafting, and an immersive combat system.
### Assassin’s Creed Odyssey – 2018 – PlayStation 4 – Ubisoft
“Odyssey” ventured into Greek mythology, presenting players with choices that impacted narrative outcomes. As Kassandra or Alexios, the layers of the story were enriched with naval engagements and encounters with mythic beasts.
### Assassin’s Creed Valhalla – 2020 – PlayStation 4/5 – Ubisoft
Plunging into Viking lore, “Valhalla” mingled Eivor’s Norse adventures with the broader Assassin/Templar conflict. It honed gameplay with settlement mechanics and lively activities that added authenticity to its epic scale.
### Assassin’s Creed Mirage – 2023 – PlayStation 4/5 – Ubisoft
Returning to its stealthy roots, “Mirage” focused on concise storytelling and emphasized classic parkour elements. The tale of Basim Ibn Ishaq in 9th-century Baghdad allowed for an immersive dive back into strategic stealth action.
The next evolution awaits as “Assassin’s Creed Shadows” takes us to 16th-century Japan. The legacy of stealth and subterfuge continues to thrive, reminding us that in the world of Assassins: “Nothing is true, everything is permitted.”
