Is Assassin’s Creed related to Islam?

Is Assassin’s Creed related to Islam?

The Assassin’s Creed series has been a staple in the gaming world for over a decade, with its rich history and intricate storylines captivating gamers worldwide. One question that has sparked debate among fans is whether the series has any connections to Islam. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Assassin’s Creed and explore the relationship between the series and Islam.

The Origins of Assassin’s Creed

Assassin’s Creed was first released in 2007, and since then, the series has expanded to include numerous games, novels, and other media. The series is set in a fictional world, where players take on the role of Assassins, a secret society that seeks to protect humanity from the Templar Order, a rival organization that seeks to control and dominate the world.

The Historical Setting

The Assassin’s Creed series is set in different historical periods, including the Crusades, the Renaissance, and the Industrial Revolution. The games often draw inspiration from real-world historical events and figures, incorporating them into the narrative. This historical setting has led some to wonder if the series has any connections to Islam, given the prominent role that the Middle East and Islamic history play in the games.

The Assassin’s Creed: Mirage

The latest installment in the series, Assassin’s Creed: Mirage, is set in 9th-century Baghdad during the Abbasid Caliphate. This setting has sparked significant interest in the series’ connection to Islam. According to Ubisoft, the game’s developers, Assassin’s Creed: Mirage is an "unabashed celebration of Arab culture and the Golden Age of Islam."

The Nizari Ismailis

One of the most significant connections between Assassin’s Creed and Islam is the Nizari Ismailis, a Shia Islamic sect that played a crucial role in the series. Altaïr Ibn-La’Ahad, the protagonist of the first Assassin’s Creed game, is a member of the Nizari Ismailis. This sect is known for their beliefs in the imamate of Fatimah, the daughter of the Prophet Muhammad, and their opposition to the Sunni Muslims.

Ezio Auditore

Another important character in the series is Ezio Auditore, the protagonist of the Assassin’s Creed II and Brotherhood games. Ezio is a Christian, but his story is deeply intertwined with the history of the Ottoman Empire, which was founded by Muslim Turks. Ezio’s quest to liberate Italy from the Templars takes him to Constantinople, where he must navigate the complex web of Ottoman politics and alliances.

The Templars

The Templars, the main antagonists of the series, are often portrayed as a Christian organization, but their true intentions are shrouded in mystery. Some have speculated that the Templars are connected to the Knights Templar, a Christian military order that was disbanded in the 14th century. However, there is no concrete evidence to support this theory.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Assassin’s Creed is not directly related to Islam, but it does draw inspiration from Islamic history and culture. The series’ use of Islamic settings, characters, and themes is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the Middle East and the importance of understanding and appreciating different cultures.

Key Points:

• Assassin’s Creed: Mirage is set in 9th-century Baghdad during the Abbasid Caliphate, an "unabashed celebration of Arab culture and the Golden Age of Islam."
• The Nizari Ismailis, a Shia Islamic sect, play a crucial role in the series, particularly in the story of Altaïr Ibn-La’Ahad.
• Ezio Auditore’s story is deeply intertwined with the history of the Ottoman Empire, which was founded by Muslim Turks.
• The Templars, the main antagonists of the series, are often portrayed as a Christian organization, but their true intentions are shrouded in mystery.

Table: Assassin’s Creed Games and Their Connection to Islam

By exploring the Assassin’s Creed series and its connections to Islam, we can gain a deeper understanding of the rich cultural heritage of the Middle East and the importance of understanding and appreciating different cultures.