Assassin’s Creed games in order, developed by Ubisoft, is one of the most successful video game franchises in the world. Known for its blend of historical fiction, action, and adventure, each installment takes players to a meticulously recreated historical setting where they can explore, undertake missions, and unravel a complex storyline that spans centuries. For those new to the series or long-time fans looking to revisit the games, understanding Assassin’s Creed games in order presents an opportunity to appreciate the evolution of the gameplay, graphics, and narrative. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every major Assassin’s Creed game, in order of their release, highlighting the unique aspects of each title.

Introduction to Assassin’s Creed Series

The Assassin’s Creed series is renowned for its innovative use of historical settings, intertwined with a fictional narrative of a centuries-old struggle between the Assassins, who fight for peace and freedom, and the Templars, who seek control over mankind. The series combines action-adventure gameplay with a strong narrative that has developed through various historical eras from the Third Crusade to the Industrial Revolution and beyond.

The Evolution of Assassin’s Creed Games

1. Assassin’s Creed (2007)

The game that started it all, the original Assassin’s Creed introduces players to Altaïr Ibn-La’Ahad, an Assassin during the Third Crusade in the Holy Land. The game was revolutionary for its open-world design, parkour system, and blend of stealth and action gameplay.

2. Assassin’s Creed II (2009)

Assassin’s Creed II marks the beginning of the Ezio Auditore trilogy, transporting players to Renaissance Italy. This sequel expanded the gameplay mechanics, introduced a more personal story, and improved visuals. Ezio’s charismatic personality and the richly detailed world of Italy made this one of the most beloved entries in the series.

3. Assassin’s Creed: Brotherhood (2010)

Continuing Ezio’s story, Brotherhood takes players to Rome, where they must fight against the powerful Borgia family. This installment introduced the Brotherhood system, allowing players to recruit and command fellow Assassins.

4. Assassin’s Creed: Revelations (2011)

Revelations conclude Ezio’s journey, taking him to Constantinople. It ties up loose ends involving both Altaïr and Ezio, and introduces bomb crafting to the series’ array of gameplay mechanics.

5. Assassin’s Creed III (2012)

Assassin’s Creed III moves to Colonial America during the American Revolution, introducing a new protagonist, Connor Kenway. This installment expanded the game world to include frontier areas and introduced naval combat, a feature that became very popular.

6. Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag (2013)

Black Flag focuses on Edward Kenway, a pirate and privateer in the Caribbean during the Golden Age of Piracy, and Connor’s grandfather. Naval combat is significantly expanded in this installment, allowing players to explore the seas, attack ships, and discover islands.

7. Assassin’s Creed: Rogue (2014)

Rogue is set during the Seven Years’ War and features a Templar, Shay Cormac, as the protagonist, exploring parts of North America. It bridges the gap between Black Flag and Assassin’s Creed III, focusing on the transformation of its main character from an Assassin to a Templar.

8. Assassin’s Creed: Unity (2014)

Set during the French Revolution, Unity introduced co-op gameplay, allowing up to four players to engage in narrative-driven missions together. It focused on Arno Dorian, who seeks redemption and justice in a tumultuously revolutionary Paris.

9. Assassin’s Creed: Syndicate (2015)

Syndicate takes place in Victorian London and introduces two playable characters, twins Jacob and Evie Frye. This installment emphasizes gang warfare, and the industrial setting allows for innovations like a grappling hook for faster city navigation.

10. Assassin’s Creed: Origins (2017)

Origins represent a significant overhaul of the series, set in Ancient Egypt. It introduces RPG elements, a revamped combat system, and a new protagonist, Bayek of Siwa, exploring the origins of the Assassin Brotherhood.

11. Assassin’s Creed: Odyssey (2018)

Set in Ancient Greece during the Peloponnesian War, Odyssey advances the RPG mechanics introduced in Origins, offering branching storylines, dialogue options, and even greater player impact on the game’s world through the character of either Alexios or Kassandra.

12. Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla (2020)

Valhalla takes players to the Viking era and follows Eivor, a Viking raider involved in the Norse invasions of England. It combines the expansive storytelling and RPG elements of its predecessors with raids and settlement-building.

Conclusion: Assassin’s Creed Games in Order

The Assassin’s Creed series offers a unique blend of historical exploration and thrilling gameplay. Each installment builds upon the last, introducing new mechanics, deeper stories, and more immersive worlds. Whether you’re a seasoned player revisiting the series or a newcomer, playing the Assassin’s Creed games in order provides a deeper appreciation for the evolution of this iconic series, highlighting its significant impact on the gaming industry.