Why does Eivor wear the hidden blade wrong?

Why Does Eivor Wear the Hidden Blade Wrong?

In Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, Eivor, the protagonist, is seen mounting her "hidden blade" on top of her forearm, instead of the traditional way, which is mounting it beneath the wrist. This design choice has left many players wondering why the developers of the game opted for this unusual approach.

Traditional Hidden Blade Wear

The traditional way of wearing the hidden blade has been consistent throughout the Assassin’s Creed series. This method allows the blade to extend seamlessly from the hand, enabling the assassin to quickly switch between stealth and combat modes. The tradition is based on the historical practice of using a hidden sword or blade, where it would be concealed in the sleeve of the assassin’s cloak, allowing for easy access when needed.

Eivor’s Unconventional Method

Eivor, however, has bucked this trend by adopting a new way of wielding the hidden blade. Instead of mounting it beneath her wrist, she keeps it on top of her forearm, which has left many fans scratching their heads. This design choice has led to some fascinating discussions about the reasoning behind this unusual approach.

The Developer’s Intentions

Narrative Director Darby McDevitt shed some light on the creative decision to deviate from the traditional method. According to him, the aim was to create a visual distinction between Eivor’s style and that of the other Assassin protagonists. He stated, "We wanted to differentiate Eivor from other Assassin protagonists, like Altair and Ezio, by giving her a unique design for the Hidden Blade." This decision is an interesting departure from the norm and adds a touch of character to Eivor’s gameplay.

Unique Mechanics

The unconventional Hidden Blade wear has also enabled some unique mechanics, which offer a fresh gaming experience. For instance, the sword can be wielded from the top forearm, allowing for more variety in combat and stealth options. This design allows for quicker blade deployment, as it doesn’t require the awkward wrist movement involved in traditional Hidden Blade mounting**. This change might be beneficial for players who prefer faster-paced combat.

Is it a Big Deal?

While Eivor’s unconventional Hidden Blade wear is an interesting creative choice, it’s important to acknowledge that it may not affect the overall gaming experience drastically. As long as the gameplay and combat mechanics remain engaging, the players will likely forgive this visual departure from the norm. The impact on storytelling and character development is relatively minimal, given the character’s unique history and backstories.

In Comparison to Other Assassin Protagonists

When comparing Eivor to other Assassin protagonists, the unique design of her Hidden Blade stand out. Altair and Ezio have both demonstrated the traditional style of wear, while modern protagonists, like Connor Kenway, have adopted hybrid approaches, combining elements from both. Eivor’s unusual design choice separates her from the pack and establishes her as an individual.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Eivor’s unusual Hidden Blade design choice offers a fresh twist on the traditional Assassin gameplay experience. While the decision might raise some questions, the creative intent is clear, and the added mechanics can enhance the combat and stealth aspects of the game. Ultimately, it comes down to individual preference, and fans can choose whether to appreciate or adapt to this new spin on an Assassin’s signature move.

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