The 10 Best Assassin’s Creed Games

The Assassin’s Creed series has become a cornerstone of the gaming landscape since its inception in 2007. Known for its blend of historical exploration, engaging narratives, and fluid parkour mechanics, the franchise invites players to dive headfirst into various epochs, from the vibrant streets of Renaissance Italy to the sun-drenched shores of Ancient Greece. Ubisoft’s unique approach to mixing education with entertainment has set the Assassin’s Creed series apart from its counterparts, many of which prefer more fantastical or modern settings.

As we journey through 14 mainline entries and countless spin-offs, Ubisoft has evolved the franchise, shifting the game mechanics, expanding worlds, and introducing new player progression systems. But amidst these changes, which titles stand out as the epitome of the series? After some heated debates and a lot of nostalgia, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 Assassin’s Creed games that every fan should experience.

1. Assassin’s Creed II (2009)

Often considered the crown jewel of the franchise, Assassin’s Creed II not only refined its predecessor’s mechanics but also introduced players to the charismatic Ezio Auditore. Set in Italy during the Renaissance, this game is filled with intrigue, betrayal, and stunning architecture. The introduction of side missions and a more personal story helped it become a pivotal point for the series, setting the gold standard for future entries.

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

Black Flag transports players to the Golden Age of Piracy, allowing them to embody Edward Kenway, a rogue assassin and pirate. The open-world Caribbean is a beautiful playground of exploration, ship battles, and treasure hunting. The seamless integration of naval mechanics into the traditional Assassin’s Creed formula was groundbreaking and remains a standout feature.

3. Assassin’s Creed: Brotherhood (2010)

As a direct sequel to Assassin’s Creed II, Brotherhood delves further into Ezio’s journey while introducing the renowned multiplayer mode. The game is notable for its focus on Roman history and the inclusion of the Brotherhood mechanic, allowing players to recruit and command fellow Assassins. This title fine-tuned combat and progression, enhancing the overall experience.

4. Assassin’s Creed Origins (2017)

Reinventing the series with a shift toward RPG elements, Origins takes players to Ancient Egypt during the Roman conquest. The vast open world is brimming with culture and history, enhancing the gaming experience. Bayek, the protagonist, serves as both a warrior and protector, uncovering the origins of the Assassin Brotherhood, making this entry a thrilling mix of narrative and exploration.

5. Assassin’s Creed Odyssey (2018)

Set in Ancient Greece during the Peloponnesian War, Odyssey goes beyond traditional storytelling, offering players a choice between two protagonists: Alexios or Kassandra. The RPG mechanics are deep and immersive, allowing for character customization and a branching narrative. The game’s emphasis on exploration and the rich storyline makes it one of the most expansive entries in the series.

6. Assassin’s Creed III (2012)

While Assassin’s Creed III received mixed reviews, it introduced players to the poignant story of Connor, an Assassin caught up in the American Revolution. Its blend of historical events, coupled with the transition to a new setting, offers a unique perspective on a critical time in history. The game also introduced naval combat, laying the groundwork for the innovations seen in Black Flag.

7. Assassin’s Creed Syndicate (2015)

Set in the bustling streets of Victorian London, Syndicate features twin assassins, Jacob and Evie Frye, each possessing unique skills and gameplay styles. The game introduces a new combat system and a focus on the industrial age’s social dynamics. The humor and character dynamics set it apart, creating a memorable experience amidst the industrial backdrop.

8. Assassin’s Creed Revelations (2011)

A direct continuation of Ezio’s story, Revelations bridges the past and the future by bringing players back to Altair’s legendary city of Masyaf. The use of new gameplay mechanics, such as the Hook Blade, adds variety to the experience. The game also delves deeper into the lore of the Assassins and Templars, providing a satisfying conclusion to Ezio’s arc.

9. Assassin’s Creed Valhalla (2020)

As the latest flagship title, Valhalla transports players to the Viking Age, allowing them to experience Eivor’s journey as they raid and settle in England. The world is expansive, with a focus on exploration, player choice, and immersive storytelling. Valhalla combines elements from previous games while introducing fresh mechanics, making it a worthy addition to the franchise.

10. Assassin’s Creed Unity (2014)

Set during the French Revolution, Unity was a bold leap into cooperative multiplayer gameplay while refining the parkour elements. Despite a rocky launch plagued by bugs, it boasts stunning visuals and a gripping storyline that captures the chaos of revolution. The series’ dedication to historical accuracy shines through, making it an intriguing experience for history buffs.