Assassin’s Creed has undergone multiple changes since its debut in 2007. The game series has improved significantly, introducing better gameplay with each iteration. From introducing charismatic protagonists like Ezio Auditore to the expansive open worlds of Origins and Odyssey, Assassin’s Creed has earned a prime spot in gaming history. The latest game in the series, Valhalla, is set in Viking-era England and introduces a new settlement system, new combat mechanics, and continues the RPG elements introduced in Origins and Odyssey. Valhalla remains critically acclaimed and proves that the series still has a lot of life left in it.
The Evolution of Assassin’s Creed: From Ezio to Valhalla
Assassin’s Creed is a popular game series from Ubisoft that first premiered in 2007. The series has evolved significantly over the years, improving and enhancing the gameplay experience with each iteration. Here is a detailed overview of the evolution of Assassin’s Creed, from Ezio to Valhalla.
Assassin’s Creed II
Assassin’s Creed II, released in 2009, was a significant improvement over the original game. The protagonist of the game, Ezio Auditore da Firenze, was a charismatic and likable character who quickly became a fan favorite. The game improved on the combat and parkour mechanics, making it more fluid and engaging. The setting of Renaissance Italy was breathtakingly beautiful and detailed, and the story was more compelling than the first game.
Assassin’s Creed Brotherhood
Assassin’s Creed Brotherhood was released in 2010 and continued the story of Ezio Auditore. The game was set in Rome, and the city was brilliantly realized in the game world. The game introduced new mechanics, such as the ability to recruit and manage a team of Assassins, calling them in for assistance during fights. The multiplayer mode was also a new addition, and it was well-received by the gaming community.
Assassin’s Creed Revelations
Assassin’s Creed Revelations, released in 2011, was the final game in the Ezio Auditore trilogy. It was set in Constantinople and concluded the story of Ezio. The game introduced several new gameplay mechanics, including the ability to craft bombs and use a hook blade to climb buildings. The multiplayer mode was also improved, with new modes and maps.
Assassin’s Creed III
Assassin’s Creed III, released in 2012, was something of a departure from the previous games. The game was set in the American Revolution and featured a new protagonist, Connor Kenway. The setting was expansive, and the game introduced new mechanics such as naval combat. However, the game also received criticism for its story and the lack of character development for Connor. The game was still well-received, though it marked a turning point for the series.
Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag
Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag, released in 2013, was set in the Caribbean during the Golden Age of Piracy. The game starred Edward Kenway, the grandfather of Connor Kenway from Assassin’s Creed III. The game introduced extensive naval combat mechanics, which were received well by the gaming community. The game also featured a massive open-world map and improved parkour mechanics. Black Flag is often considered one of the best games in the series.
Assassin’s Creed Unity
Assassin’s Creed Unity, released in 2014, was set during the French Revolution. The game introduced several new mechanics, such as cooperative multiplayer and a new parkour system. The game also boasted an impressive visual overhaul, with highly detailed graphics and improved lighting. However, the game was released with numerous bugs and glitches, which affected the overall experience. Ubisoft later released patches to address the issues.
Assassin’s Creed Syndicate
Assassin’s Creed Syndicate, released in 2015, was set in London during the Industrial Revolution. The game featured two protagonists, twins Jacob and Evie Frye, who were both playable in the game. The game improved on the gameplay mechanics of Unity, with smoother parkour and combat. The game also introduced new mechanics, such as the ability to hijack and drive horse-drawn carriages. Overall, the game was well-received, though it did not make many significant changes to the series formula.
Assassin’s Creed Origins
Assassin’s Creed Origins, released in 2017, was a significant departure from previous games. The game was set in ancient Egypt and starred a new protagonist, Bayek. The game introduced a new combat system, with weapon degradation and a new skill tree system. The game also boasted a massive open world, with a rich and detailed world to explore. Origins was a critical success and revitalized the series, setting a new standard for future games.
Assassin’s Creed Odyssey
Assassin’s Creed Odyssey, released in 2018, continued the new formula established in Origins. The game was set in ancient Greece and starred either Alexios or Kassandra as the protagonist. The game introduced new dialogue choices, branching story paths, and extensive customization options. The game also had a massive open world to explore, with sea battles and an improved RPG system. The game’s story was well-received, and the game was a commercial success.
Assassin’s Creed Valhalla
Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, released in 2020, is the latest game in the series. The game is set in Viking-era England and stars Eivor as the protagonist. The game introduces a new settlement system, where players can rebuild their own Viking base and make decisions that affect the story. The game also introduces new combat mechanics, such as dual-wielding and the ability to use a bow in combat. Valhalla continues the RPG elements introduced in Origins and Odyssey, and it is well-received by critics and players.
Conclusion
Assassin’s Creed has come a long way since its debut in 2007. The series has evolved significantly, improving upon and enhancing the gameplay experience with each iteration. From the charismatic protagonists like Ezio Auditore to the expansive open worlds of Origins and Odyssey, the series has cemented its place in gaming history. Assassin’s Creed Valhalla proves that the series still has a lot of life left in it, and it will be exciting to see where the series goes next.