Can I Play Assassin’s Creed Not in Order?
Assassin’s Creed is a popular gaming franchise that has captivated gamers worldwide with its thrilling storyline, engaging gameplay, and rich historical context. With a total of eleven main games and numerous spin-offs, it can be overwhelming for new players to know where to start. The good news is that you can play Assassin’s Creed games in any order you prefer, although technically, there are no restrictions blocking you from playing the series out of order.
Connecting the Dots: Major Storylines and Characters
The Assassin’s Creed franchise is known for its interconnected storyline, with many characters and events appearing across different games. While you don’t need to play the games in order, some understanding of the series’ chronology and main plot points can enhance your gaming experience. Here’s a breakdown of the major story arcs and characters:
| Assassin’s Creed Game | Key Characters | Major Plot Points |
|---|---|---|
| AC1-AC2 (2007-2009) | Altaïr, Ezio | Templar vs. Assassin rivalry, the First Crusade |
| AC3 (2012) | Connor, Haytham | American Revolution, the Order of the Ancients |
| AC4 (2013) | Edward, Adéwalé | Golden Age of Piracy, the Templar vs. Assassin war |
| ACU (2014), AC Syndicate (2015) | Arno, Jacob, Evie | Revolutionary France, the Brotherhood |
| AC Origins (2017), AC Odyssey (2018) | Bayek, Aya | Ancient Egypt, the Foundation of the Brotherhood |
As you can see, each game builds upon the previous one’s storyline and characters, although some games feature standalone narratives. While not essential, playing the series in order can provide a deeper understanding of the interconnected world and its rich lore.
Can I Play a Specific Game without Having Played the Others?
While the Assassin’s Creed series is designed to be played in order, some games can be enjoyed standalone. Here are some highlights:
- AC Origins and AC Odyssey: These games can be played without prior knowledge of the series, as they feature a new storyline set in ancient Egypt.
- AC4: Black Flag is a soft reset of the series, allowing new players to jump into the franchise without feeling lost.
- AC Unity and AC Syndicate: These games offer a more accessible narrative than the earlier games, focusing on the French Revolution and the Industrial Revolution.
In summary, while some games are designed to be played in order, it’s not necessary to do so. You can choose to play a specific game without prior knowledge of the series, and still enjoy the Assassin’s Creed experience.
Key Takeaways
- Technically, there are no restrictions preventing you from playing Assassin’s Creed games out of order.
- Understanding the major story arcs and characters can enhance your gaming experience, but it’s not necessary.
- Some games can be played standalone, offering a more accessible introduction to the series.
- Connecting the dots between games is possible, but not crucial to enjoying the series.
Conclusion
Assassin’s Creed is a diverse and engaging franchise with many games to choose from. While playing the series in order can provide a richer understanding of the world and its characters, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. You can play the games in any order you prefer, and still experience the thrill and excitement that the Assassin’s Creed series has to offer.