Is it Okay to Start with Assassin’s Creed Origins?
Assassin’s Creed is a beloved franchise with a rich history, spanning over a decade. With numerous games and spin-offs, it can be overwhelming for new players to know where to start. One of the most popular questions among fans is whether it’s okay to start with Assassin’s Creed Origins, the latest installment in the series. In this article, we’ll explore the answer to this question and provide insights on how to approach the franchise.
The Assassin’s Creed Timeline
Before diving into Origins, it’s essential to understand the Assassin’s Creed timeline. The series is divided into three main eras: the Holy War, the Renaissance, and the Modern Era. Each era has its own set of games, with some titles connecting to others through shared characters or storylines.
Origins as a Starting Point
Assassin’s Creed Origins is set in Ancient Egypt during the Ptolemaic period, around 49 BCE. This game marks a significant departure from the traditional Assassin’s Creed formula, introducing a new protagonist, Bayek, and a fresh narrative. While Origins is a standalone game, it does share some connections with the larger Assassin’s Creed universe.
Pros of Starting with Origins
Here are some reasons why you can start with Assassin’s Creed Origins:
- New Storyline: Origins offers a unique and engaging storyline that doesn’t require prior knowledge of the series.
- Improved Gameplay: The game features refined combat mechanics and a more immersive experience compared to earlier titles.
- Standalone: Origins is designed to be a standalone game, making it easy to jump in without worrying about missing out on previous storylines.
Cons of Starting with Origins
However, there are some potential drawbacks to consider:
- Lack of Context: Without prior knowledge of the Assassin’s Creed universe, you might miss out on some references and connections to other games.
- Limited Character Connection: Bayek, the protagonist, is a new character, and his story might not be as deeply connected to the larger franchise as other characters.
Alternative Options
If you’re unsure about starting with Origins, here are some alternative options:
- Assassin’s Creed II: This game is often considered one of the best in the series and offers a more traditional Assassin’s Creed experience.
- Assassin’s Creed: Black Flag: This game is set in the Golden Age of Piracy and offers a unique blend of naval combat and Assassin’s Creed gameplay.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it’s absolutely okay to start with Assassin’s Creed Origins. The game offers a fresh and engaging storyline, improved gameplay, and is designed to be a standalone experience. While you might miss out on some context and character connections, Origins is a great starting point for new players.
Additional Tips
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind:
- Play the Games in Order: If you do decide to play the games in order, you’ll get a better understanding of the Assassin’s Creed universe and its characters.
- Watch the Animated Series: The Assassin’s Creed animated series, "Assassin’s Creed: Lineage" and "Assassin’s Creed: Embers," provide additional context and backstory for the characters and events in the games.
- Read the Comics: The Assassin’s Creed comics, available on the official website, offer additional storylines and character development.
Table: Assassin’s Creed Games in Order
| Game | Release Year | Setting | Era |
|---|---|---|---|
| Assassin’s Creed | 2007 | Holy Land | Holy War |
| Assassin’s Creed II | 2009 | Renaissance Italy | Renaissance |
| Assassin’s Creed: Brotherhood | 2010 | Renaissance Rome | Renaissance |
| Assassin’s Creed: Revelations | 2011 | Ottoman Empire | Renaissance |
| Assassin’s Creed III | 2012 | American Revolution | Modern Era |
| Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag | 2013 | Golden Age of Piracy | Modern Era |
| Assassin’s Creed: Unity | 2014 | French Revolution | Modern Era |
| Assassin’s Creed: Rogue | 2014 | Seven Years’ War | Modern Era |
| Assassin’s Creed: Syndicate | 2015 | Victorian Era | Modern Era |
| Assassin’s Creed: Origins | 2017 | Ancient Egypt | Ancient Era |
| Assassin’s Creed: Odyssey | 2018 | Ancient Greece | Ancient Era |
| Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla | 2020 | Viking Age | Ancient Era |
By following this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to start your Assassin’s Creed journey with Origins and explore the rich world of the franchise.