Which Finger is Cut Off in Assassin’s Creed?
In the Assassin’s Creed video game series, the Hidden Blade, a signature weapon of the Assassin Brotherhood, is often associated with the removal of a particular finger. But which finger, exactly, is cut off?
Direct Answer
Throughout the Assassin’s Creed franchise, the dominant answer is that the ring finger is the one that is cut off.
History of the Hidden Blade
The Hidden Blade, created by Altaïr ibn-La’Ahad, the first Assassin to wield the blade, was designed to facilitate the use of the Hidden Blade, while also serving as a symbol of the Brotherhood’s identity. Initially, the Hidden Blade was a complex device that required significant manual dexterity, leading Altaïr to remove his ring finger to improve functionality.
Altair’s Design Decision
Altaïr’s removal of his ring finger was a deliberate design decision, aimed at enhancing the precision and functionality of the Hidden Blade. By reducing the number of fingers needed to operate the weapon, Altaïr increased the sword’s speed and agility, making it a powerful tool for his Assassins.
Variations in Assassin’s Creed
Despite Altaïr’s original design decision, later Assassin protagonists in the series have exhibited variations in finger removal. Bayek’s Apple of Eden, for example, allowed him to bypass the need to cut off his ring finger. Similarly, Ezio Auditore and Connor Kenway have not had to remove their ring fingers, as they were able to perfect the design of the Hidden Blade over time.
Other Key Points
• Altair’s Feathers: In the first Assassin’s Creed game, Altair used feathers to wipe his blood from his blades, not his victim’s blood, as often suggested.
• The Order’s Symbols: The Assassins have been depicted using various symbols throughout history, including the Hidden Blade, feathers, and the Apple of Eden.
• Inconsistencies: The series has shown inconsistencies in the portrayal of Assassin finger removal, with some characters demonstrating the removal of fingers while others have not.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Does the Assassin Brotherhood remove both ring fingers?
A: In the Assassin’s Creed series, only a single ring finger is typically cut off, although there are some instances of both ring fingers being removed.
Q: Are there any non-canonical explanations for the missing finger?
A: Yes, in some cases, the removal of a finger has been explained as a result of battlefield injuries or accidents, rather than a deliberate choice made by the Assassin.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the answer to "Which finger is cut off in Assassin’s Creed?" is unequivocally the ring finger. Throughout the franchise, the ring finger has been removed as a symbol of the Assassin Brotherhood, reflecting their commitment to the art of murder and their pursuit of justice. By understanding the historical context and design decisions made by Altaïr and later Assassin protagonists, we can gain insight into the world of Assassin’s Creed.