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Is Assassin’s Creed in France? Exploring the Series’ French Connections

Yes, Assassin’s Creed has a significant presence in France. Several games within the franchise are either primarily set in France or feature the country prominently. The most notable example is Assassin’s Creed Unity, which unfolds in Revolutionary Paris during the French Revolution. However, France also appears in other titles, such as Assassin’s Creed Valhalla through its “Siege of Paris” DLC, showcasing the Viking invasion of Francia. The connection between the Assassin’s Creed franchise and France is deep and multifaceted, extending beyond mere location to encompass historical events, characters, and even the development of the games themselves.

Assassin’s Creed Unity: A Deep Dive into Revolutionary Paris

The French Revolution as a Backdrop

Assassin’s Creed Unity plunges players into the heart of Paris during one of its most turbulent periods: the French Revolution. The game meticulously recreates the city’s iconic landmarks and chaotic atmosphere, allowing players to experience the revolution firsthand. As Arno Dorian, players navigate the political intrigue and social upheaval, uncovering the hidden powers behind the revolution while seeking justice for personal loss.

A 1:1 Scale Recreation of Paris

Ubisoft spared no effort in recreating 18th-century Paris with remarkable accuracy. The game boasts a near 1:1 scale representation of the city, allowing players to traverse familiar locations like the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Louvre, and the Bastille. This commitment to historical detail enhances the immersive experience, making players feel truly present in the French Revolution.

Arno Dorian: A French Assassin

Arno Victor Dorian, the protagonist of Assassin’s Creed Unity, is a French Assassin whose story becomes intertwined with the events of the revolution. His personal quest for vengeance against those responsible for his adoptive father’s murder becomes a central thread in the narrative, offering a unique perspective on the historical events unfolding around him.

Other Appearances of France in Assassin’s Creed

Assassin’s Creed Valhalla: The Siege of Paris

While Assassin’s Creed Valhalla primarily focuses on the Viking invasion of England, the “Siege of Paris” DLC transports players to Francia (modern-day France) to participate in the historical siege of Paris. This expansion explores the conflicts between the Vikings and the Frankish kingdom, adding another layer to the Assassin’s Creed’s portrayal of French history.

The Parisian Brotherhood of Assassins

The lore of Assassin’s Creed establishes the existence of a Parisian Brotherhood of Assassins dating back centuries. This group, also known as the French Brotherhood of Assassins, has been active in France since at least the 1st century CE, indicating a long and intertwined history with the country.

The French Connection: Ubisoft and the Development of Assassin’s Creed

Ubisoft Paris: A Key Development Studio

Ubisoft, the video game company behind the Assassin’s Creed franchise, has a significant presence in France. Ubisoft Paris, established in 1992, is one of the company’s largest and most influential studios. With approximately 700 employees, the studio has played a vital role in the development of numerous Assassin’s Creed titles, including Assassin’s Creed Unity.

The Impact of French Culture and History

The fact that a major development studio is based in France undoubtedly influences the way the country and its history are portrayed in the Assassin’s Creed series. The developers’ familiarity with French culture and history allows for greater attention to detail and a more nuanced understanding of the events and characters depicted in the games.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Assassin’s Creed and France

Here are 15 frequently asked questions (FAQs) to provide additional information about the connection between Assassin’s Creed and France:

Which Assassin’s Creed game is set primarily in France?

Assassin’s Creed Unity is set primarily in Paris during the French Revolution.
Does Assassin’s Creed Valhalla feature France?

Yes, the “Siege of Paris” DLC for Assassin’s Creed Valhalla takes place in Francia (modern-day France).
Is Ubisoft, the developer of Assassin’s Creed, a French company?

While Ubisoft is an international company, it was founded in France and maintains a significant presence there, including a major development studio in Paris.
Who is the main character in Assassin’s Creed Unity?

The main character in Assassin’s Creed Unity is Arno Victor Dorian, a French Assassin.
Is Paris accurately depicted in Assassin’s Creed Unity?

Ubisoft aimed for a high level of historical accuracy in Assassin’s Creed Unity, recreating Paris at a near 1:1 scale.
Were there real assassins in France during the French Revolution?

While the Assassin’s Creed games are fictional, they draw inspiration from historical events and figures. The existence of a Parisian Brotherhood of Assassins is part of the game’s lore.
Why are there no French accents in Assassin’s Creed Unity?

The decision to omit French accents was a stylistic choice by the developers, aiming for a more serious and appealing tone.
Does Assassin’s Creed explore other periods of French history?

While Assassin’s Creed Unity and the “Siege of Paris” DLC are the most prominent examples, the Assassin’s Creed lore suggests a long history of Assassin activity in France.
What is the French name in Assassin’s Creed Unity?

The main character’s name is Arno Victor-Dorian, and the game primarily takes place in Paris during the French Revolution.
Is Assassin’s Creed Unity a stealth game?

Yes, Assassin’s Creed Unity is an action-adventure, stealth game played from a third-person perspective.
Are the Assassins considered the “good guys” in the Assassin’s Creed series?

The Assassins and Templars represent opposing ideologies, and the perception of who is “good” or “bad” can vary depending on the game and the player’s perspective. However, in many instances, the Assassins align with the player’s sense of justice and freedom.
What historical events are depicted in the Siege of Paris DLC?

The “Siege of Paris” DLC depicts the Viking siege of Paris and the conflicts between the Vikings and the Frankish kingdom.
What other countries are featured in Assassin’s Creed games?

The Assassin’s Creed series has explored a wide range of historical settings, including Italy, England, Egypt, Greece, America, and the Caribbean.
Where can I learn more about the educational aspects of video games like Assassin’s Creed?

You can explore the educational potential of video games by visiting the Games Learning Society website at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/ or GamesLearningSociety.org. They offer valuable insights into how games can be used for learning and engagement.
Which is the oldest Assassin’s Creed game?
The first game, simply titled Assassin’s Creed, released in 2007, is the oldest title in the series.

In conclusion, the Assassin’s Creed series has a strong and recurring connection with France, prominently featuring the country in games like Assassin’s Creed Unity and the “Siege of Paris” DLC for Assassin’s Creed Valhalla. The franchise’s commitment to historical detail and the involvement of Ubisoft’s French development studio contribute to a rich and immersive portrayal of French history and culture within the Assassin’s Creed universe.

Is Assassins Creed in France?