Is Ezio in Black Flag? Unraveling the Assassin’s Creed Mystery
The answer is a bit complex: Ezio Auditore da Firenze himself doesn’t physically appear in Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag. However, his legacy and influence are felt in a few key ways. Ezio’s voice actor, Roger Craig Smith, does make a voice cameo in the game. Furthermore, Ezio’s iconic outfit can be unlocked and worn by the protagonist, Edward Kenway, adding a tangible connection to the legendary Assassin. Let’s dive deeper into this intricate connection.
Ezio’s Voice Actor and the Subtle Nod
While Ezio doesn’t make an on-screen appearance, Roger Craig Smith, the voice of Ezio Auditore in Assassin’s Creed II, Brotherhood, and Revelations, lends his vocal talents to Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag. He voices Ruggiero Ferraro, the Italian diplomat that Edward Kenway has to tail and assassinate in Sequence 11. Smith also voices an Abstergo market analyst within the game’s modern-day segments. This subtle cameo serves as a nostalgic nod to one of the most beloved characters in the Assassin’s Creed franchise. It’s a treat for dedicated fans who recognize the familiar voice behind a different persona.
Unlocking Ezio’s Outfit: A Legacy Reborn
One of the most direct ways to experience Ezio’s presence in Black Flag is through unlocking his iconic outfit. This isn’t done through in-game progression but by linking your Ubisoft account to the game. By having played two previous Assassin’s Creed titles (excluding Black Flag) on the same Ubisoft account, you unlock Ezio’s outfit for Edward Kenway. This allows players to experience the pirate adventures of Edward while sporting the recognizable attire of the Italian Renaissance Assassin. This is a fun and visually appealing way to integrate Ezio into the world of Black Flag, even if he’s not there in the flesh.
The Genetic Memory Connection: A Weaving Narrative
The Assassin’s Creed series relies heavily on the concept of genetic memory, allowing characters to relive the memories of their ancestors. While Edward Kenway and Ezio Auditore are not directly related by blood, they are both connected through the overarching narrative involving Desmond Miles. Desmond’s ability to access the memories of his ancestors, including Altaïr Ibn-La’Ahad, Ezio Auditore, and the Kenway family, creates an indirect link between these characters. Therefore, Ezio exists within the same universe and shared historical timeline, as well as within the shared genetic memory accessible in the Animus, even though their lives never directly intersected.
FAQs About Ezio and Black Flag
1. How do you get Ezio’s outfit in Black Flag?
Ezio’s outfit is unlocked by playing two previous Assassin’s Creed titles on the same Ubisoft account as your Black Flag game. This unlocks the outfit for Edward Kenway to wear.
2. Are the Kenways and Ezio related?
Not directly by blood. However, they are all connected through the genetic memory of Desmond Miles. Altaïr, Ezio, and the Kenways (Connor, Haytham, and Edward) are all ancestors whose memories Desmond can access.
3. What Assassin’s Creed games feature Ezio?
Ezio is the main protagonist in Assassin’s Creed II, Assassin’s Creed: Brotherhood, and Assassin’s Creed: Revelations. He also appears in the animated short film Assassin’s Creed: Embers.
4. What other roles does Roger Craig Smith have in Black Flag?
Besides voicing Ruggiero Ferraro, Roger Craig Smith also voices an Abstergo market analyst in the modern-day sections of the game.
5. Who is the protagonist of Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag?
The protagonist is Edward Kenway, a Welsh privateer turned Assassin.
6. Is Ezio the most popular Assassin in the series?
Many fans consider Ezio to be the most popular and beloved Assassin in the franchise, largely due to his compelling story arc and charismatic personality.
7. How old was Ezio when he died?
Ezio passed away at the age of 65 from a heart attack in Florence.
8. Are Altair and Ezio related?
Altair and Ezio are not directly related by blood. They are connected through the genetic memory of Desmond Miles.
9. How can I unlock Altair’s outfit in Black Flag?
You need to have played one previous Assassin’s Creed game (other than Black Flag) on your Ubisoft account to unlock Altair’s outfit.
10. What are some of the benefits of wearing different outfits in Black Flag?
Different outfits offer various benefits. For example, the Stealth outfit reduces your detection rate, the Hunter outfit reduces detection by animals, and the Mayan armor deflects bullets.
11. Who is the modern-day protagonist in Black Flag?
While you play as an unnamed Abstergo employee, the modern-day antagonist is John Standish, a Sage working at Abstergo Entertainment.
12. Is Edward Kenway based on a real historical figure?
Unlike many characters in Assassin’s Creed, Edward Kenway is an original character, not based on a specific historical individual.
13. How does the Animus work in Black Flag?
The Animus allows individuals to relive the memories of their ancestors stored in their DNA. This is how players experience the historical settings and events in the game.
14. What is Abstergo Entertainment?
Abstergo Entertainment is a front company for the modern-day Templar Order, using the Animus to search for Pieces of Eden and further their agenda.
15. What makes Ezio such a compelling character?
Ezio’s compelling character arc, which spans multiple games, follows his transformation from a carefree young man to a wise and experienced Assassin. His quest for revenge, his personal growth, and his dedication to the Assassin Brotherhood resonate with players, making him a memorable and beloved character. Learning about video games can teach different skills, such as those explored by the Games Learning Society. Check out GamesLearningSociety.org to learn more.
The Enduring Legacy of Ezio
While Ezio Auditore doesn’t physically appear in Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag, his presence is subtly woven into the game through his voice actor’s cameo and the ability to unlock his iconic outfit. This provides a satisfying connection for fans of the series, reminding them of the rich history and interconnectedness of the Assassin’s Creed universe. Ezio’s legacy as a charismatic and skilled Assassin continues to resonate with players, making him an enduring figure in the world of video games.