Which Assassin’s Creed is Native American?

Which Assassin’s Creed is Native American?

The Assassin’s Creed franchise, developed by Ubisoft, has a long and storied history of exploring various themes, settings, and characters. Among its many protagonists, one character stands out in terms of his cultural heritage: Connor/Kanien’kehá, a half-British, half-Mohawk Assassin born in the 18th century. His story is set during the American Revolutionary War, and his journey has significant implications for the franchise and Native American representation.

Connor (Ratonhnhaké):ton – The Native American Assassin

Connor, whose adopted name, Ratonhnhaké:ton, means "He scratches / scrapes at life" in the Kanien’kéha language, speaks the Mohawk language during specific parts of the game. His childhood story is deeply rooted in his people’s culture and traditions, which further emphasizes his connection to the Native American identity.

Assassin’s Creed III: The Game

Released in 2012, Assassin’s Creed III stars Connor as the protagonist, and his struggles to find his place between the competing interests of the British and the Revolutionary forces. The game takes place during a crucial period in American history, when the British occupied New York and the Continental Army fought for independence.

Mohawk Tribe in Assassin’s Creed III

As Connor, players can explore parts of the game set in the North American wilderness, specifically in lands inhabited by the Mohawk, whose territory spanned from Lake Ontario to the Atlantic coast of Massachusetts. However, the game does not explicitly indicate the tribe’s name or their precise location.

Significance and Representation

Connor’s story plays a significant role in the Assassin’s Creed canon, as it delves into the experiences and perspective of a Native American protagonist. This can be seen as a groundbreaking step in games representation, as it allows players to become immersed in a world where Native Americans are not just peripheral characters.

Other Native American Characters and Tribes

While Connor holds a prominent position in the Assassin’s Creed storyline, other Native American characters and tribes have appeared in the franchise. These have included the Iroquoian-speaking Mohawk, as seen in Assassin’s Creed III, and the tribes of Vinland, such as those encountered in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla.

Vinland and the Norwegian Exploration

In Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla, players can travel to Vinland, a continent explored by the Viking Leif Erikson in the 11th century. Players encounter various Native American tribes, interacting with them through diplomacy, warfare, or other means. While the game may gloss over the cultural differences and complexities involved, it still offers insights into the experiences of these ancient native peoples.

Assassin’s Creed: Origins and the Egyptian Heritage

Assassin’s Creed: Origins set in ancient Egypt, offers additional perspectives on the Assassin’s Creed heritage. The game introduces the concept of modern-day assassins, with Amun, an ancient Egyptian Assassin, seeking to understand his role in shaping the modern-day world of the franchise.

The Iroquoian-speaking Mohawk in Assassin’s Creed

Returning to Assassin’s Creed III and Ratonhnhaké:ton, the game features a storyline centered on the Iroquoian-speaking Mohawk, who play a significant role in their own right. This narrative reinforces the importance of Native American representation within the Assassin’s Creed franchise.

Tables and Bullet Points

Here are additional tables and bullet points highlighting key concepts and facts related to Native American culture and representation in Assassin’s Creed:

Native American Representation in Assassin’s Creed

Common Themes and Motifs

Some common themes and motifs associated with the franchise include:

• Exploration and expansion
• Cultural exchange and conflict
• Indigenous perspectives and representation
• The struggle between forces of colonialism and independence
• Warrior cultures and the importance of honor, bravery, and loyalty

In Assassin’s Creed, Connor’s experience as a Native American Assassin offers insights into the complexities of his people’s traditions, struggles, and experiences. The inclusion of Native American representation within this globally recognized franchise demonstrates the genre’s capacity to engage with diverse cultures, acknowledge their importance, and contribute meaningfully to the discussion around their treatment and representation.