Alexios vs. Kassandra: Who is the Better Choice in Assassin’s Creed Odyssey?
The burning question for anyone diving into Assassin’s Creed Odyssey: Is it better to play as Alexios or Kassandra? The answer, while ultimately subjective, leans heavily towards Kassandra. While the storyline remains virtually identical regardless of your choice, Kassandra’s voice acting, portrayal, and overall narrative fit make her the superior protagonist in the vast majority of players’ opinions. She embodies the strength, resilience, and complexity that defines the game’s spirit far more effectively than her male counterpart. Don’t get me wrong, Alexios isn’t bad, but Kassandra’s performance is simply on another level, elevating the entire Odyssey experience.
The Voice Acting Advantage: A Game Changer
Kassandra’s Superior Performance
Let’s be blunt: Kassandra’s voice acting, performed by Melissanthi Mahut, is exceptional. It’s nuanced, emotive, and brings a depth to the character that Alexios (voiced by Andreas Apergis) struggles to match. Her delivery of lines, both in moments of quiet contemplation and intense battle, feels natural and compelling. This isn’t just a matter of personal preference; many players and critics alike have lauded Mahut’s performance as one of the best in the entire Assassin’s Creed franchise.
Alexios’ Clunkiness
In contrast, Alexios’ voice acting often sounds forced or even misdirected. The delivery can come across as wooden, lacking the emotional range necessary to fully convey the character’s motivations and struggles. Some critics have described him as sounding like a “meathead,” a perception fueled by the less-than-stellar direction and performance. While the script remains the same, the delivery profoundly impacts how the character is perceived.
Narrative Resonance: Why Kassandra Fits Better
The Canonical Protagonist
While Ubisoft initially marketed the game with both characters equally, the official novelization of Assassin’s Creed Odyssey designates Kassandra as the canonical protagonist. This isn’t just marketing fluff; it implies that the writers envisioned her as the primary character whose memories Layla Hassan is reliving. This adds a subtle layer of weight to playing as Kassandra, knowing that you’re experiencing the story as it was “intended” to be told.
Embodying Strength and Compassion
Kassandra’s persona aligns more effectively with the game’s themes of family, redemption, and the struggle against fate. Her strength doesn’t just manifest in combat prowess but also in her capacity for compassion and empathy. She faces immense challenges with a blend of stoicism and vulnerability that resonates deeply with players. Alexios, while capable, often lacks this nuance, making him feel less connected to the emotional core of the story.
Gameplay Considerations: Minimal Impact
Identical Gameplay Mechanics
It’s important to emphasize that the gameplay mechanics are identical regardless of which character you choose. You’ll have access to the same abilities, weapons, and combat styles. The only real difference is the character model and voice acting. So, if gameplay is your primary concern, either choice is viable.
Minor Animation Differences
Some players have noted slight differences in animations, with Kassandra’s movements sometimes appearing smoother and more fluid. However, these are minor and unlikely to significantly impact your overall experience.
Final Verdict
While the decision is ultimately yours, Kassandra provides a more compelling and immersive Assassin’s Creed Odyssey experience due to her superior voice acting, narrative resonance, and overall character portrayal. Alexios is a perfectly serviceable option, but Kassandra simply elevates the game to another level.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Does the story change if I pick Alexios instead of Kassandra?
No, the main storyline remains virtually identical regardless of your choice. The primary narrative beats, major plot points, and key character interactions are the same. The difference lies in the character’s portrayal and the nuance they bring to the role.
2. Can I switch between Alexios and Kassandra mid-game?
Unfortunately, you cannot switch between Alexios and Kassandra once you’ve started a playthrough. You’re locked into your choice for that particular save file. To play as the other character, you’ll need to start a new game.
3. Is Kassandra stronger than Alexios in-game?
Gameplay-wise, they are equally powerful. Both characters have access to the same abilities, equipment, and skill trees. Any perceived difference in strength is purely subjective and based on individual playstyles.
4. Why do so many people prefer Kassandra?
The preference for Kassandra stems largely from Melissanthi Mahut’s exceptional voice acting performance, her perceived fit as the canonical protagonist, and her nuanced portrayal of strength and vulnerability.
5. Is Alexios a bad character?
No, Alexios isn’t inherently a bad character. However, his voice acting and portrayal often fall short compared to Kassandra, leading some players to find him less engaging.
6. Does choosing one character affect romance options?
No, the romance options are the same regardless of whether you play as Alexios or Kassandra. You can pursue relationships with both male and female characters regardless of your protagonist’s gender.
7. Is there a “canon” choice for who I should play as?
While Ubisoft initially presented both characters equally, the official novelization designates Kassandra as the canonical protagonist. This suggests that the writers envisioned her as the primary character experiencing the game’s events.
8. Can I change my gender in Assassin’s Creed Odyssey after starting the game?
No, you cannot change your gender after you’ve started the game. You’ll need to start a new playthrough to play as the other character.
9. Does choosing Alexios or Kassandra impact the ending?
No, the ending is the same regardless of which character you choose. The major decisions you make throughout the game will affect the final outcome, but your choice of protagonist won’t.
10. What are the main differences between Alexios and Kassandra?
The main differences lie in voice acting performance, character portrayal, and perceived fit as the canonical protagonist. Gameplay mechanics and the storyline remain largely the same.
11. Is one character better for a specific playstyle?
No, neither character is inherently better for a specific playstyle. Both Alexios and Kassandra can be customized to fit various playstyles, such as warrior, hunter, or assassin.
12. Are there any differences in dialogue depending on which character I choose?
While the core dialogue remains the same, the delivery and tone can differ significantly due to the different voice actors. This can impact how you perceive the character’s reactions and emotions.
13. Does it matter which character I choose if I’m new to Assassin’s Creed?
If you’re new to the series, Kassandra is often recommended as the better starting point due to her more compelling and immersive portrayal. However, either character can serve as a viable entry point into the Assassin’s Creed universe.
14. Where can I learn more about character choices in video games and their impact on learning?
The Games Learning Society at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/ is an excellent resource for information on character choices, narrative design, and the educational impact of video games.
15. Will playing as Alexios or Kassandra influence future Assassin’s Creed games?
It is unlikely that Ubisoft will take the choice of Alexios vs Kassandra and make it relevant in the future.
Ultimately, the choice between Alexios and Kassandra is a matter of personal preference. However, considering the widespread praise for Kassandra’s performance and her perceived fit as the canonical protagonist, she emerges as the superior choice for most players seeking the most engaging and immersive Assassin’s Creed Odyssey experience.