Assassin’s Creed, a franchise that has redefined the action-adventure genre in gaming, has consistently delivered a compelling blend of history, fiction, and intense gameplay.
Since its inception in 2007, the series has not just grown but evolved, capturing the imaginations of gamers worldwide.
Today, I will guide you through every Assassin’s Creed game in order, dig into a ranking of the top five, and provide insights into the system requirements and awards. Let’s get started!
All Games Released So Far
1. Assassin’s Creed (2007) – The Genesis
The game that started it all, Assassin’s Creed (2007), introduced players to the Animus, a device allowing users to relive their ancestors’ memories.
Set during the Third Crusade, players take on the role of Altaïr Ibn-La’Ahad, a member of the Assassins tasked with eliminating key figures to end the war.
The game’s innovative parkour mechanics and blending of historical events with fiction set the tone for future titles.
2. Assassin’s Creed II (2009) – The Renaissance Revolution
Regarded as a monumental leap from its predecessor, this installment took players to Renaissance Italy. You play as Ezio Auditore da Firenze, unraveling a conspiracy against his family.
Enhanced gameplay, a more personal story, and the introduction of iconic characters like Leonardo da Vinci marked a new era for the franchise.
3. Assassin’s Creed: Brotherhood (2010) – The Rise of an Order
Continuing Ezio’s story, Brotherhood (2010) introduces Rome as a living, breathing city. The game expanded the Brotherhood, allowing players to recruit and train new Assassins.
Its introduction of multiplayer was groundbreaking, offering a unique blend of stealth and combat.
4. Assassin’s Creed: Revelations (2011) – The End of an Era
Revelations (2011) concludes Ezio’s journey, intertwining his story with Altair’s. Set in Constantinople, the game presented refined mechanics and a gripping narrative, bidding a fitting farewell to two legendary Assassins.
5. Assassin’s Creed III (2012) – A New World
Shifting to the American Revolution, the third installment introduced a new protagonist, Connor Kenway.
The game stood out for its vast frontier, naval combat, and a more dynamic world. It marked a significant evolution in the series’ gameplay and storytelling approach.
6. Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag (2013) – Pirates and Freedom
This installment took the naval combat of its predecessor and built an entire game around it. As Edward Kenway, a pirate-turned-assassin, players explored the Caribbean during the Golden Age of Piracy.
It’s praised for its open world, ship combat, and a story bridging the gap between the Templars and Assassins.
7. Assassin’s Creed: Rogue (2014) – A Different Perspective
Offering a unique twist, Rogue (2014) allowed players to experience the world from a Templar’s viewpoint. Set in North America during the Seven Years’ War, it continued the naval gameplay from Black Flag and connected storylines from previous games.
8. Assassin’s Creed: Unity (2014) – Revolution and Unity
Set in Paris during the French Revolution, Assassin’s Creed: Unity (2014) introduced Arno Dorian.
The game was ambitious, featuring a massive crowd system, refined parkour, and cooperative multiplayer. However, it faced criticism for technical issues at launch.
9. Assassin’s Creed: Syndicate (2015) – The Industrial Change
Syndicate (2015) transported players to Victorian London. Players alternated between two protagonists, twins Jacob and Evie Frye.
The game introduced new elements like the grappling hook and gangs, offering a fresh take on the series formula.
10. Assassin’s Creed: Origins (2017) – A New Beginning
Revitalizing the series, Assassin’s Creed: Origins (2017) took players to Ancient Egypt. Introducing RPG elements, a revamped combat system, and a vast open world, it told the story of Bayek, the last Medjay, and the origins of the Assassin Brotherhood.
11. Assassin’s Creed: Odyssey (2018) – A Greek Epic
Odyssey (2018) further expanded on the RPG mechanics introduced in Origins. Set in Ancient Greece, it allowed players to choose between two protagonists, Alexios or Kassandra, and explore a world rich in mythology and history.
12. Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla (2021) – Vikings and Conquest
Valhalla (2021) brought the series to the Viking Age. Players control Eivor, a Viking raider, and engage in the conquest of England.
The game combined the best elements of its predecessors and added new features like settlement management and raids.
13. Assassin’s Creed Mirage (2024) – The Latest Entry
Assassin’s Creed Mirage (2024), set in Baghdad 20 years before Valhalla’s events, initially planned as an expansion for Valhalla, turned into a standalone title.
This latest installment is expected to continue the series’ legacy of immersive storytelling and historical accuracy. It is a visually stunning game, and if you run it with some of the newer GPUs, you will be absolutely blown away by its graphics.
Top 5 Games Ranked
1. Assassin’s Creed II (2009)
This game stands at the top for its revolutionary impact on the series. It refined the gameplay, introduced a beloved protagonist, and set a high standard for narrative and world-building.
2. Assassin’s Creed: Origins (2017)
Reviving the series with its RPG elements, vast open world, and deep storytelling, Origins is a close second. It beautifully depicted Ancient Egypt, offering a fresh experience while staying true to the franchise’s roots.
3. Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag (2013)
The pirate-themed adventure, Black Flag, takes the third spot for its engaging naval combat, exploration, and captivating story.
It’s a standout title that expanded the series’ horizons quite literally.
4. Assassin’s Creed: Odyssey (2018)
With its expansive Greek world, choice-driven narrative, and further development of RPG mechanics, Odyssey is a worthy fourth place.
It pushed the boundaries of what an Assassin’s Creed game could be.
5. Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla (2021)
Rounding out the top five, Valhalla impresses with its depiction of the Viking era, improved combat, and engrossing storyline.
Its innovative features like raids and settlement management, added depth to the gameplay.
Infinity and Mirage: The Future of the Franchise
Assassin’s Creed Infinity is set to be a “hub” that provides access to various AC-themed content. This innovative approach promises to bring a new dimension to the franchise, offering a variety of experiences under one umbrella.
Assassin’s Creed Mirage: The Newest Chapter
This game is the 13th installment in the series and is set in Baghdad, 20 years before the events of Valhalla.
Initially planned as an expansion, it has evolved into a full-fledged game, promising to bring new stories and experiences.
Awards and Achievements
Assassin’s Creed Unity: A Triumph in Artistic Design
Despite its rocky start, Assassin’s Creed Unity won awards for its animation, art direction, and sound design, showcasing the developers’ commitment to creating a visually and auditorily immersive experience.
Assassin’s Creed Syndicate: Recognition of Excellence
Assassin’s Creed Syndicate won the Game of the Year at both the 2015 GameSpot’s Game of the Year and the 2015 Canadian Videogame Awards.
Its unique setting and innovative gameplay elements earned it critical acclaim.
Assassin’s Creed Origins: A Landmark Achievement
Winning Best Game, Game Design, and Best Performer (Abubakar Salim) awards at the 14th British Academy Games Awards, Assassin’s Creed Origins was lauded for its storytelling, game design, and performances.
Assassin’s Creed Valhalla: A Grammy-Winning Soundtrack
In a historical moment for the gaming industry, Assassin’s Creed Valhalla became the first game to win a Grammy award (Best Score Soundtrack for Video Games and Other Interactive Media) in 2024.
Stephanie Economou’s composition added a depth of emotion and cultural authenticity to the game’s experience.
FAQs
Can I start playing the Assassin’s Creed series from any game, or should I follow the order?
While each game has a standalone story, playing in order enhances understanding of the overarching narrative. However, you can start with any game, as each offers a unique experience.
Are the Assassin’s Creed games historically accurate?
The games blend historical events and figures with fiction. While they are well-researched and feature real historical settings, the narratives are fictional.
Do I need to play the earlier games to enjoy the latest Assassin’s Creed games?
No, each game is designed to be enjoyable on its own. However, playing earlier games can enhance appreciation of recurring themes and characters.
Is multiplayer available in all Assassin’s Creed games?
No, multiplayer is not available in all titles. It was first introduced in ‘Brotherhood’ and featured in several, but not all, subsequent games.
How does the Animus work in the Assassin’s Creed games?
The Animus is a fictional device that lets characters relive their ancestors’ memories stored in their DNA, serving as a narrative device to explore historical periods.
Are there any spin-off games or media in the Assassin’s Creed franchise?
Yes, there are several spin-off games, novels, comics, and a film, all expanding the this universe beyond the main video game series
Final Words
The Assassin’s Creed series has not only crafted a unique niche in the gaming world but has also continuously evolved with time, often setting new benchmarks in storytelling, gameplay, and graphics.
From the initial leap of faith in 2007’s to the expansive realms of 2024’s technology each game has contributed to an intricate tapestry of historical fiction and modern-day conspiracy.