When Did AC Unity Become Free?
Assassin’s Creed Unity, a game set in the midst of the French Revolution, was initially released in 2014 to mixed reviews. However, in 2019, Ubisoft, the game’s developer, made the PC version of the game available for free download for a limited time. But what led to this unexpected decision, and how did it impact the gaming community?
Why Did Ubisoft Make AC Unity Free?
On April 15, 2019, a devastating fire ravaged the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris, France. The historic landmark, which played a significant role in Assassin’s Creed Unity’s storyline, was severely damaged, leaving the world in shock. In response to this tragedy, Ubisoft decided to make the PC version of Assassin’s Creed Unity available for free download from April 17 to 25, 2019.
Key Facts About the Free Release
- Duration: The free release was available for a week, from April 17 to 25, 2019.
- Platform: Only the PC version of the game was made available for free download.
- Donation Option: Players were encouraged to make a donation to the reconstruction efforts of Notre-Dame Cathedral.
- Revenue: Ubisoft donated €500,000 to the reconstruction efforts, and any additional donations made by players went directly to the restoration fund.
Impact on the Gaming Community
The free release of Assassin’s Creed Unity had a significant impact on the gaming community. Here are some key statistics:
- Downloads: The game was downloaded over 1 million times during the free release period.
- Reviews: The game’s reviews on Steam and other platforms saw a significant boost, with many players praising the game’s free release.
- Community Engagement: The free release led to increased community engagement, with players sharing their experiences and memories of playing the game.
Comparison to Other Assassin’s Creed Games
Assassin’s Creed Unity received mixed reviews upon its initial release, with many critics praising its visuals and setting but criticizing its gameplay and bugs. Here’s a comparison of the game’s critical reception to other Assassin’s Creed games:
| Game | Metacritic Score | Release Year |
|---|---|---|
| Assassin’s Creed | 91% | 2007 |
| Assassin’s Creed II | 94% | 2009 |
| Assassin’s Creed: Brotherhood | 91% | 2010 |
| Assassin’s Creed: Revelations | 84% | 2011 |
| Assassin’s Creed III | 84% | 2012 |
| Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag | 87% | 2013 |
| Assassin’s Creed: Unity | 65% | 2014 |
| Assassin’s Creed: Syndicate | 84% | 2015 |
| Assassin’s Creed: Origins | 84% | 2017 |
| Assassin’s Creed: Odyssey | 89% | 2018 |
Conclusion
Assassin’s Creed Unity’s free release was a unique and unexpected move by Ubisoft. The game’s connection to Notre-Dame Cathedral, combined with the devastating fire that occurred in 2019, made it a poignant and meaningful gesture. The game’s free release had a significant impact on the gaming community, with many players appreciating the opportunity to play the game and donate to a good cause. While Assassin’s Creed Unity received mixed reviews upon its initial release, its free release has cemented its place in gaming history as a symbol of community engagement and generosity.