Table of Contents

Is Bayek an Assassin? Unraveling the Origins of the Brotherhood

Quick answer

This page answers Is Bayek an assassin? quickly.

Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.

Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.

Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.

▶

Absolutely! Bayek of Siwa, the protagonist of Assassin’s Creed Origins, is indeed considered an Assassin. While he doesn’t start the game as a member of an established Assassin Brotherhood, his journey, driven by loss and the pursuit of justice, directly leads to the formation of the Hidden Ones, the precursor organization to the iconic Assassin Brotherhood. Bayek, along with his wife Aya, are rightfully credited as the founders, making him a pivotal figure, arguably the first of his kind, in the long and storied lineage of Assassins in the Assassin’s Creed universe.

The Genesis of an Assassin: Bayek’s Journey

From Medjay to Founder

Bayek’s initial role as a Medjay, a protector of the people in ancient Egypt, is crucial to understanding his evolution into an Assassin. As a Medjay, he was a respected figure, a guardian, and a symbol of justice. This background provided him with the skills, connections, and moral compass necessary to eventually challenge the corrupt Order of the Ancients. He didn’t need to hide in the shadows to uphold justice, he could be seen as protecting people.

The Catalyst: Loss and Vengeance

The tragic loss of his son, Khemu, at the hands of the Order of the Ancients, becomes the driving force behind Bayek’s transformation. This deeply personal tragedy sets him on a path of vengeance, exposing him to the Order’s insidious influence and the injustices they perpetrate. His quest for revenge evolves into a fight for freedom and justice for all, laying the foundation for the core tenets of the Assassin Brotherhood.

Founding the Hidden Ones

As Bayek and Aya dismantle the Order of the Ancients, they realize the need for a dedicated organization to combat such corruption. This realization leads to the creation of the Hidden Ones, a group committed to fighting for freedom and justice from the shadows. Bayek’s leadership, experience, and unwavering commitment to these ideals make him the natural leader and architect of this nascent brotherhood.

Key Elements Solidifying Bayek’s Assassin Status

The Creed’s Origins: While not explicitly stated in its later, more formalized form, the principles that would become the Assassin Creed – striving for peace, upholding free will, and working in the shadows to protect the innocent – are all intrinsically tied to Bayek’s actions and beliefs. He literally laid the groundwork that the creed would be built upon.
Mentorship and Training: Bayek, as the founder of the Hidden Ones, naturally becomes a mentor and trainer to future assassins. He imparts his skills, knowledge, and philosophy to those who join the cause, ensuring the continuation of the fight against tyranny.
The Symbolism: While initially a Medjay emblem, Bayek is also seen using a stylized hawk symbol associated with the brotherhood.
Legacy: Bayek’s actions and the Hidden Ones’ establishment reverberate throughout history, influencing the development of the Assassin Brotherhood in subsequent games. His legacy is cemented as the foundational figure upon which the entire Assassin’s Creed narrative is built.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Bayek

Was Bayek always intended to be an Assassin? No. He started as a Medjay. The narrative arc of Assassin’s Creed Origins is specifically designed to show his evolution from a Medjay to the de facto founder of the Assassin Brotherhood. The development of the Hidden Ones was not intended.
Does Bayek use a Hidden Blade? Yes! As the hidden ones progressed so did their technology. This is when the Hidden Blade was implemented.
How is Bayek different from later Assassins? Bayek operates in a less structured environment than many later Assassins. The Hidden Ones are in their infancy, and he is instrumental in shaping their ideology and operational methods. Later Assassins inherit a more established organization with a defined hierarchy and code of conduct.
Does Bayek interact with other historical figures? Yes, Bayek encounters and interacts with several significant historical figures, including Cleopatra, Julius Caesar, and other prominent figures of ancient Egypt. His relationships with these individuals shape the political landscape and influence his journey.
How does Aya contribute to the formation of the Assassin Brotherhood? Aya is equally crucial to the formation of the Hidden Ones. She is a skilled warrior and strategist, actively involved in dismantling the Order of the Ancients. She later forms her own group in Rome.
Is Bayek’s story continued in other Assassin’s Creed games? While Bayek doesn’t make a physical appearance in subsequent main-line games, he has a voice over cameo in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla. He is also available to use in Assassin’s Creed: Odyssey.
What are the core values of the Hidden Ones founded by Bayek? The Hidden Ones, under Bayek’s guidance, prioritize freedom, justice, and the protection of the innocent. They operate in the shadows to combat corruption and tyranny, adhering to a code of conduct that emphasizes discretion and efficiency.
How does Bayek’s Medjay background influence his Assassin skills? Bayek’s Medjay training provides him with a diverse skillset, including combat prowess, tracking abilities, knowledge of the land, and strong moral principles. These skills are invaluable as he transitions into his role as a founder of the Assassin Brotherhood.
Is Bayek considered one of the strongest Assassins in the Assassin’s Creed universe? While subjective, many fans and critics consider Bayek to be among the strongest Assassins due to his leadership, combat skills, and the fact that he essentially founded the Brotherhood. His strength lies not only in physical abilities but also in his unwavering resolve and commitment to justice.
Where can I learn more about the connections between gaming and societal impact? The Games Learning Society (GamesLearningSociety.org) offers valuable resources and research exploring the intersection of gaming and education. The link between Assassin’s Creed and history is interesting!
What age is Bayek in Assassin’s Creed Origins? At the start of Assassin’s Creed Origins, Bayek is around 36 years old. By the end of the Hidden Ones DLC, he’s approximately 47.
Did Bayek ever travel outside of Egypt? While the main game focuses on his activities in Egypt, later DLC expands his world.
Does Bayek have any weaknesses? Bayek’s grief over his son’s death is a significant weakness that the Order of the Ancients exploits. His strong sense of justice can also make him impulsive at times.
Was Bayek’s son killed by Cleopatra? No, Bayek’s son, Khemu, was killed by Flavius Metellus of the Order of the Ancients.
Is it important to experience the DLC content to fully understand Bayek’s story? Yes, the DLC expansions, particularly “The Hidden Ones”, further develop Bayek’s character and demonstrate the growth of the Assassin Brotherhood after the events of the main game. This is great for experiencing the full character development.

Bayek: More Than Just an Assassin, a Symbol

Ultimately, Bayek’s legacy extends far beyond his skills as a warrior. He represents the genesis of an idea, the birth of a movement, and the unwavering commitment to fighting for what is right, even in the face of overwhelming odds. He is a symbol of hope, justice, and the enduring power of the human spirit.