Next year marks the 20th anniversary of the Assassin’s Creed franchise. While Ubisoft’s popular franchise has had its share of highs and lows amidst a shake-up to the core gameplay, the games have remained popular and beloved by its fans.
That said, some entries stand out as clear favorites that represent the best the series has to offer. With Assassin’s Creed Black Flag Resynced quickly approaching, this felt like a great time to write my take on the best Assassin’s Creed games.
5. Assassin’s Creed Odyssey
Starting with Assassin's Creed Origins, the series overhauled its gameplay into more of an RPG. Stealthy kills with the same blade were dropped in favor of mountains of gear to find and lots of numbers between stats and health values.
Representing the best of these RPG entries is Assassin's Creed Odyssey. Following a Spartan mercenary during a War between Sparta and Athens, you participate on both sides. It's a fun setting to play in and there are even some mythological creatures to fight, although that's a stretch for some fans.
4. Assassin’s Creed Shadows
Whether it was the sword play or the idea of parkouring as a Ninja, having an Assassin's Creed game take place in Japan has been every fan’s dream for a long time. It wouldn't be until 2025, 18 years since the original entry's release, that the dream game would release as Assassin's Creed Shadows.
The result is an entry that straddles the line between the RPG entries and the originals. You'll still find lots of gear to equip and upgrade, but stealth is also a much more important and modernized aspect. Gameplay styles are also split between the two protagonists - direct combat with Yasuke, and stealthy takedowns with Naoe.
3. Assassin’s Creed II
The original Assassin's Creed made a huge impact when it launched in 2007. Following Desmond's ancestor Altair and his involvement with the assassins and templars was an enjoyable time. That said, it also felt like a game that didn't quite meet its potential.
Assassin's Creed II manages to surpass all expected potential. A far more interesting story and cast of characters, a diverse backdrop of Italian cities during the Renaissance, and updated stealth and combat mechanics to top it all off. Combat feels its most button-mashy, but you're rarely not having fun.
2. Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag
Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag is an interesting one. On paper, it has quite a few negatives that you'd think would give it a worse perception. Combat feels easier and simpler, some stealth missions (tailing missions in particular) are clunky, and the parkour system is very inconsistent.
Yet, most (including myself) would consider it to be one of the best entries in the series. The pirate story and cast are fantastic, Edward has great character development, and every aspect of the naval battles is a joy. Even with some series elements lacking, the game is just too damn fun not to rank high.
1. Assassin’s Creed: Brotherhood
As amazing as Assassin's Creed II is, its follow-up improved upon everything gameplay-related. Combat was faster and more aggressive, with many new weapons and enemy types to fight with. Growing the Assassin's "brotherhood" was also a fun management mechanic that felt worth amazing when you could call in for assistance during a mission.
I also have to mention the introduction of multiplayer. While this was the age of multiplayer modes that just feel tacked-on, this was one of the genuine fun ones. Navigating through a crowd of NPCs to find a hiding enemy, while you do the same, was the perfect recipe for a fun multiplayer experience.
These certainly aren’t the only great entries to play. Although I’m excited for Assassin’s Creed Black Flag Resynced, I’m equally excited to see whatever is next for the franchise.
