Why is male Eivor not canon?

Why is Male Eivor Not Canon?

Assassin’s Creed Odyssey has been a highly praised game, allowing players to choose between male and female protagonists, Kassandra and Alexios. However, the question remains – is male Eivor not canon? The answer is yes, and in this article, we will delve into the reasons behind it.

The Canon Choice: Kassandra

To start with, it’s essential to understand that the game’s storyline is primarily focused on Kassandra’s narrative. Her character arc is deeply connected to the main plot, and the story unfolds as she undertakes a quest to discover the truth about her family’s past and her role in the ancient world.

In an interview, JF Dugas, the game’s creative director, revealed that Kassandra is the canon character. This means that the narrative is tailored around her character, and the player’s experience is designed to unfold through her perspective.

Eivor’s DNA

So, what about Alexios? Why is Eivor, his male counterpart, not canon? The game’s storyline reveals that Odin’s DNA influences the Animus, a device used by the protagonists to relive their genetic memories. This factor affects the interpretation of their appearances, sometimes resulting in unexpected variations, such as male Eivor.

While it’s not explicitly stated, this anomaly doesn’t align with the main storyline, making male Eivor non-canon.

The Writing Team’s Decision

According to some fans, the marketing team’s decision to depict male Eivor in promotional materials might have been due to the assumption that a more androgynous protagonist would appeal to a broader audience. This led to the marketing campaign showcasing Alexios’ story, rather than the canon Kassandra’s.

However, the writing team’s primary focus was on Kassandra’s narrative, and this deviation from the canon can be seen as a misunderstanding.

Fan Preferences and Fandom

The reason why fans might prefer Alexios or Eivor lies in personal preferences and interpretation of the character. While some may connect with Alexios’ more rugged appearance, others appreciate Kassandra’s complexity and emotional depth. Both characters have unique qualities, and fans should be respected for their choices.

In-Game Mechanics and Lore

Considering the game’s mechanics and lore, Kassandra’s character is more attuned to the ancient world. Her skills and abilities reflect her background, which is crucial to understanding the story.

In contrast, Alexios’ limited appearance and backstory, despite being the same sibling as Kassandra, disrupt the narrative coherence.

Comparison: Canon vs Non-Canon

In conclusion, Male Eivor is not canon due to the game’s focus on Kassandra’s narrative and the influence of Odin’s DNA on the Animus. While players are free to choose either character, Kassandra remains the core protagonist of the game, and the canon choice for Assassin’s Creed Odyssey.

The difference between canon and non-canon characters lies in the character’s relevance to the main storyline and their appearance, reflecting the game’s core narrative and themes.

Fans can respect each other’s preferences and enjoy their experience, whether they choose Kassandra or Alexios, but ultimately, the canon choice remains Kassandra, the strong and courageous warrior at the heart of Assassin’s Creed Odyssey’s story.