Assassin’s Creed burst onto the scene in 2007, introducing us to a stunning blend of historical intrigue, science fiction, and pulse-pounding parkour action. With its stealthy gameplay and richly woven storylines, the game quickly captivated players, spawning an expansive universe including games, comic books, and even a film adaptation.
As the latest installment, Assassin’s Creed Shadows, prepares for its grand unveiling on the PlayStation 5 this March 20, it’s the perfect time for a refresher on the iconic series’ journey through its main titles.
Assassin’s Creed – 2007 – PlayStation 3 – Ubisoft
This groundbreaking game first introduced us to Altaïr Ibn-La’Ahad, a 12th-century assassin, and the mysterious Animus device allowing modern-day Desmond Miles to relive his ancestor’s memories. Set during the Third Crusade, the game laid the foundation for a gripping saga that spanned centuries and introduced players to an intricate narrative framework.
Assassin’s Creed II – 2009 – PlayStation 3 and 2016 – PlayStation 4 (Enhanced) – Ubisoft
With our first introduction to Ezio Auditore da Firenze, the sequel took us deep into the Renaissance, weaving historical figures like Leonardo da Vinci and Niccolo Machiavelli into a tale of revenge and intrigue. Meanwhile, Desmond took a more central role within his modern-day storyline.
Assassin’s Creed Brotherhood – 2010 – PlayStation 3 and 2016 – PlayStation 4 (Enhanced) – Ubisoft
Brotherhood picked up right after the events of its predecessor, continuing Ezio’s story in the heart of Rome. The game added new layers to the franchise with a notoriety system, an array of new weapons, and for the first time, a multiplayer mode that allowed players to challenge friends in a game of hide and seek with deadly consequences.
Assassin’s Creed Revelations – 2011 – PlayStation 3 and 2016 – PlayStation 4 (Enhanced) – Ubisoft
Revelations wrapped up Ezio’s arc, taking us to Constantinople as he sought the keys to Altaïr’s hidden library. New tactics like zip lines and the innovative Hookblade expanded Ezio’s combat and traversal options, while Desmond faced his subconscious challenges in the Animus.
Assassin’s Creed III – 2012 – PlayStation 3 and 2019 – PlayStation 4 (Remastered) – Ubisoft
This installment shifted the narrative to North America during the American Revolution, focusing on Connor, born Ratonhnhaké:ton, as he fought against the Templar threat. The game introduced innovative combat mechanics, animal hunting, and thrilling naval battles, setting a new standard for adventure in the franchise.
Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag – 2013 – PlayStation 3 and PlayStation 4 – Ubisoft
Building on the naval combat from the previous entry, Black Flag soared to new heights with pirate adventure. Players embodied Edward Kenway, a pirate with endless seas to explore, engaging in ship battles and treasure hunts. The game seamlessly blended both land and sea exploration, marking a new chapter in freedom and adventure.
Assassin’s Creed Rogue – 2014 – PlayStation 3 and 2018 – PlayStation 4 (Remastered) – Ubisoft
Rogue flipped the script by allowing players to control Shay Patrick Cormac, an Assassin turned Templar. Set in the icy North Atlantic and New York City, this entry kept players constantly on edge, balancing traditional elements with unique twists that enhanced the experience.
Assassin’s Creed Unity – 2014 – PlayStation 4 – Ubisoft
Unity welcomed players to the heart of the French Revolution, offering a co-op campaign for the first time in the series. Playing as Arno Dorian, players could team up for revolutionary exploits, wielding highly customizable gear and weapons, alongside friends.
Assassin’s Creed Syndicate – 2015 – PlayStation 4 – Ubisoft
Set in Victorian London, Syndicate introduced us to sibling assassins, Jacob and Evie Frye. Evie’s role marked a significant leap forward for gender representation in the main series. Mastering the streets of London meant using carriages as transport, and ingeniously using enemies to access restricted areas.
Assassin’s Creed Origins – 2017 – PlayStation 4 – Ubisoft
With Origins, the series was reborn, transporting players back to Ptolemaic Egypt to witness the dawn of the Assassins and the Templars. As Bayek of Siwa, players uncovered mysteries and engaged in deep, RPG-inspired mechanics. Crafting, leveling up, and engaging combat rounded out this rich experience.
Assassin’s Creed Odyssey – 2018 – PlayStation 4 – Ubisoft
Odyssey ventured further into RPG territory, immersing players in Ancient Greece’s war-torn landscapes. The narrative allowed for dialogue choices and branching paths, while thrilling naval battles and encounters with mythological beasts added layers of excitement.
Assassin’s Creed Valhalla – 2020 – PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 – Ubisoft
Valhalla placed players in the role of Viking Eivor, exploring 9th-century England amidst the Viking age. This entry deepened the settlement-building mechanics, introduced new world activities, and concluded Layla’s journey through the history of Assassins and Templars.
Assassin’s Creed Mirage – 2023 – PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 – Ubisoft
Mirage returned the series to its roots, emphasizing stealth, a straightforward narrative, and acrobatic parkour within 9th-century Baghdad. With street thief turned Master Assassin Basim Ibn Ishaq leading the way, players were brought back to the core identity of the series.
Now, as we eagerly await the next chapter—set in 16th-century Japan with Assassin’s Creed Shadows—players prepare to step into a world filled with skilled shinobi and formidable samurai. Remember the Assassin’s motto: “Nothing is true, everything is permitted.”
