Assassin’s Creed: A Look Back at the Series – PlayStation.Blog

Back in 2007, Assassin’s Creed made a splash in the gaming world, blending historical settings with science fiction, intricate storytelling, and innovative parkour mechanics. This captivating mix not only captivated gamers but expanded into comics and cinema, crafting a universe rich with lore and memorable personas.

As Assassin’s Creed Shadows prepares for its stealthy debut on PlayStation 5 come March 20, consider this your ideal introduction to the profound journey of the series’ 13 core titles.

### Assassin’s Creed – 2007 – PlayStation 3 – Ubisoft

The original game thrust players into the shoes of Altaïr Ibn-La’Ahad, a 12th-century assassin. The game introduced us to the concept of the Animus, a machine enabling characters to experience the genetic memories of their forebears. Players navigated the life of Altaïr during the Third Crusade, as seen through his 21st-century descendant, Desmond Miles—a journey that wove a complex tale across both eras.

This debut set a benchmark for the genre and laid the groundwork for a sequel that would further elevate the series’ acclaim.

### Assassin’s Creed II – 2009 – PlayStation 3 and – 2016 – PlayStation 4 (Enhanced) – Ubisoft

Desmond’s narrative continued as the series transported us to the Italian Renaissance, stepping into the life of Ezio Auditore da Firenze. His thirst for revenge unfolded amidst encounters with historical figures like Leonardo da Vinci and Niccolo Machiavelli, while Desmond grew more enmeshed with the modern-day Assassin Brotherhood.

Where the first game shaped the franchise’s identity, its sequel refined it, with Ezio rising as a beloved character among fans.

### Assassin’s Creed Brotherhood – 2010 – PlayStation 3 and – 2016 – PlayStation 4 (Enhanced) – Ubisoft

Picking up right after the events of Assassin’s Creed II, Brotherhood saw Ezio expanding the Assassin Brotherhood across Rome. It introduced new gameplay elements, such as assassinations on horseback, heavy weapon throws, and even crossbows and poison darts. The multiplayer mode was a notable addition, letting players stealthily hunt each other down.

### Assassin’s Creed Revelations – 2011 – PlayStation 3 and – 2016 – PlayStation 4 (Enhanced) – Ubisoft

This installment wrapped up Ezio’s saga, with the now-aging assassin searching for secrets in Constantinople. Meanwhile, a comatose Desmond is tasked with synchronizing with Ezio and Altaïr to save his own mind. New tools like the Hookblade improved mobility and combat, adding fresh layers to the gameplay.

### Assassin’s Creed III – 2012 – PlayStation 3 and – 2019 – PlayStation 4 (Remastered) – Ubisoft

Shifting the series to North American shores, Assassin’s Creed III laid the foundation for a dramatic narrative. Desmond revisited the 18th century through the lives of Templar Haytham Kenway and his son, Connor. The game introduced features like dual-wielding and naval engagements, not to mention the impactful addition of dynamic weather.

### Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag – 2013 – PlayStation 3 and PlayStation 4 – Ubisoft

Building on its predecessor’s naval exploration, Black Flag unlocked the allure of the open sea during the Golden Age of Piracy. Players embraced a life of seafaring adventures with Edward Kenway, employing skilled combat and exploring on land and sea alike.

### Assassin’s Creed Rogue – 2014 – PlayStation 3 and – 2018 – PlayStation 4 (Remastered) – Ubisoft

Rogue offered a fresh perspective by switching the protagonist to a former Assassin turned Templar, Shay Patrick Cormac. The game revisited known mechanics while adding rich narratives and demanding new tactics as players managed the threat from former allies.

### Assassin’s Creed Unity – 2014 – PlayStation 4 – Ubisoft

Released concurrently with Rogue, Unity showcased a refreshed graphical engine and introduced up to four-player co-op during the French Revolution, a first for the franchise. It focused on shared resources and weapon customization through the eyes of Assassin Arno Dorian.

### Assassin’s Creed Syndicate – 2015 – PlayStation 4 – Ubisoft

Victorain London played host to twin Assassins, Jacob and Evie Frye. Players could swap between them, marking the first mainline title to feature a playable female Assassin. New mechanics like carriage use and enemy kidnappings added strategic layers to their quest.

### Assassin’s Creed Origins – 2017 – PlayStation 4 – Ubisoft

Egypt’s ancient landscapes welcomed players in Origins, exploring the birth of the Assassin Brotherhood. This entry embraced RPG elements, enhancing combat and character progression through intricate systems and Bayek’s gripping journey.

### Assassin’s Creed Odyssey – 2018 – PlayStation 4 – Ubisoft

Set against the mythological backdrop of Ancient Greece, Odyssey expanded Layla’s tale. Players chose between Kassandra or Alexios, exploring branching narratives and choices affecting game outcomes, while mythological creatures presented thrilling challenges.

### Assassin’s Creed Valhalla – 2020 – PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 – Ubisoft

Valhalla thrust Vikings into the spotlight, entwining Eivor’s story in the war between Assassins and Templars. Expanding on mechanics from past games, it emphasized player choice through settlement management and engaging activities like fishing and flighting.

### Assassin’s Creed Mirage – 2023 – PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 – Ubisoft

Returning to a more linear storyline, Mirage emphasized stealth and parkour, transporting players to 9th-century Baghdad with Basim Ibn Ishaq, a character introduced in Valhalla. The shift marks a heartfelt nod to the series’ origins.

Now, with anticipation building, we look toward the next chapter in 16th-century Japan, featuring masterful shinobi Fujibayashi Naoe and storied samurai Yasuke in Assassin’s Creed Shadows. Remember: “Nothing is true, everything is permitted.”