What Assassin’s Creed game should I start with?
If you’re new to the Assassin’s Creed franchise, it can be overwhelming to decide which game to start with. With over 15 games in the series, each with its unique storyline, gameplay mechanics, and setting, it’s essential to choose the right one to get hooked. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of selecting the perfect Assassin’s Creed game for your gaming journey.
Chronological Order or Gameplay?
Before diving into the series, consider your preferences: do you prioritize a strong storyline and character development or engaging gameplay mechanics? If you’re more interested in the narrative, starting with Assassin’s Creed II (2009) is an excellent choice. This game is widely regarded as one of the best in the series, with a well-crafted story, memorable characters, and improved gameplay. If you prefer a mix of exploration, combat, and stealth, Assassin’s Creed: Origins (2017) is a great option. This game introduces a new setting, Ancient Egypt, and offers a more comprehensive RPG experience.
Setting and Time Period
The Assassin’s Creed series is known for its diverse settings and time periods. You can explore the Italian Renaissance, Ancient Greece, or the Golden Age of Pirates. Assassin’s Creed: Odyssey (2018) is a great choice if you want to experience Ancient Greece, with its vast open world, engaging combat, and emotional story. Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla (2020) is set in medieval England and offers a mix of exploration, combat, and diplomacy.
Easy Entry Points
If you’re new to the series, you can start with some of the more recent games that offer a gentle learning curve and engaging storytelling. Assassin’s Creed: Black Flag (2013) is a pirate-themed game with a more accessible gameplay experience. Assassin’s Creed: Syndicate (2015) is set in Victorian-era London and features twin protagonists, giving you a chance to explore different playstyles.
Key Games in the Series
Here’s a summary of the key games in the Assassin’s Creed series:
| Game | Setting | Release Year |
|---|---|---|
| Assassin’s Creed | Third Crusade | 2007 |
| Assassin’s Creed II | Italian Renaissance | 2009 |
| Assassin’s Creed: Brotherhood | Italian Renaissance | 2010 |
| Assassin’s Creed: Revelations | Turkish Empire | 2011 |
| Assassin’s Creed III | American Revolution | 2012 |
| Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag | Golden Age of Piracy | 2013 |
| Assassin’s Creed: Unity | French Revolution | 2014 |
| Assassin’s Creed: Rogue | Seven Years’ War | 2014 |
| Assassin’s Creed: Syndicate | Victorian-era London | 2015 |
| Assassin’s Creed: Origins | Ancient Egypt | 2017 |
| Assassin’s Creed: Odyssey | Ancient Greece | 2018 |
| Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla | Medieval England | 2020 |
Conclusion
When deciding which Assassin’s Creed game to start with, consider your preferences for storytelling, gameplay mechanics, and setting. If you want a strong narrative, Assassin’s Creed II is an excellent choice. If you prefer engaging gameplay and exploration, Assassin’s Creed: Origins or Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla might be more suitable. You can also start with more recent games like Assassin’s Creed: Black Flag or Assassin’s Creed: Syndicate, which offer a more accessible gameplay experience.
Whichever game you choose, be prepared for an immersive experience that combines exploration, combat, and stealth. The Assassin’s Creed series has something for everyone, so start your journey today!