Should You Play Assassin’s Creed in Order? A Comprehensive Guide
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Yes, it’s absolutely okay, and often recommended, to play the Assassin’s Creed franchise in order of release, especially if you’re interested in understanding the overarching narrative, character development, and evolving gameplay mechanics. While each game often presents a standalone story within a specific historical period, a continuous narrative thread connects them, enriching the experience significantly. Starting with the original Assassin’s Creed and progressing through each subsequent title provides a gradual immersion into the complex lore, rivalries between Assassins and Templars, and the mysteries surrounding the Isu, the precursor civilization. However, there are nuances and considerations to keep in mind as you embark on this historical adventure.
The Case for Playing in Release Order
Playing the Assassin’s Creed games in the order they were released offers several advantages:
- Understanding the Modern-Day Story: The games feature a modern-day storyline alongside the historical settings, primarily focusing on the character Desmond Miles in the early games. This narrative directly connects each historical period and reveals crucial information about the franchise’s overarching plot. Skipping games can lead to confusion and a fragmented understanding of this meta-narrative.
- Character Development: Key recurring characters, like Shaun Hastings and Rebecca Crane, evolve throughout the series. Playing in order allows you to witness their relationships with Desmond and their contributions to the Assassin cause, adding emotional depth and context.
- Gameplay Evolution: The gameplay mechanics in the Assassin’s Creed series have undergone significant transformations. Starting with the initial, more rigid parkour and combat system of the first game and progressing through the smoother, more dynamic mechanics of later titles provides a more forgiving learning curve and appreciation for the advancements made. You’ll adapt gradually instead of being thrown into a complex system from the start.
- Lore and World-Building: The franchise’s rich lore, concerning the Isu, Pieces of Eden, and the constant struggle between Assassins and Templars, is unveiled piece by piece with each new installment. Playing in order allows you to absorb the lore gradually and appreciate the intricate connections between different historical periods and characters.
- Experiencing Fan Favorites at the Right Time: Certain games, such as Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag, are beloved for their unique setting and gameplay elements. Experiencing them within the context of the wider series enhances their impact and significance.
When to Consider Non-Linear Play
While playing in release order is beneficial, there are instances where non-linear play might be acceptable, or even preferable:
- Burnout: The Assassin’s Creed franchise is extensive, and playing every game consecutively can lead to burnout. Taking breaks or skipping less essential titles might be necessary to maintain enjoyment.
- Specific Interests: If you’re particularly drawn to a specific historical period, such as Ancient Greece in Assassin’s Creed Odyssey or Ancient Egypt in Assassin’s Creed Origins, you might choose to start with those games. However, be aware that you’ll miss out on some of the interconnected narratives and references.
- Gameplay Preferences: Some players might dislike specific gameplay mechanics present in older titles. If you’re turned off by the more rigid systems of the early games, you could consider starting with a later installment that offers smoother and more modern gameplay.
- Ezio Fatigue: While the Ezio Auditore trilogy (Assassin’s Creed II, Brotherhood, and Revelations) is considered a highlight for many fans, some may find the storyline too long. It is okay to skip it if you want to see more of the other time periods such as Assassin’s Creed Origins that is based in Ancient Egypt.
The Importance of Ezio’s Story
Despite the expansive nature of the series, the story of Ezio Auditore da Firenze stands out as a cornerstone of the franchise. His journey from a young noble to a seasoned Assassin, spanning decades and multiple games, provides a compelling narrative arc. Playing the Ezio trilogy in order (Assassin’s Creed II, Brotherhood, Revelations) is highly recommended, as it delves deep into the Assassin-Templar conflict and expands upon the modern-day story arc.
Essential Games for Story Progression
If you’re prioritizing story progression, the following games are considered essential:
- Assassin’s Creed
- Assassin’s Creed II
- Assassin’s Creed: Brotherhood
- Assassin’s Creed: Revelations
- Assassin’s Creed III
- Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag
- Assassin’s Creed: Rogue
- Assassin’s Creed: Unity
- Assassin’s Creed: Origins
- Assassin’s Creed: Odyssey
- Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla
These games contribute significantly to the overarching narrative and introduce key characters, plot points, and historical contexts.
FAQs: Navigating the Assassin’s Creed Universe
1. Is Assassin’s Creed 1 necessary to play?
Yes, while its gameplay might feel dated compared to later installments, Assassin’s Creed 1 introduces the core concepts of the Assassin-Templar conflict and the lore surrounding the Isu. It lays the foundation for the entire franchise and provides context for subsequent events.
2. Can I skip Assassin’s Creed: Brotherhood and Revelations?
While you can, it’s generally not recommended. These games are integral to Ezio’s story and continue the Desmond saga. Skipping them would leave significant gaps in the narrative.
3. What is the best starting point for the Assassin’s Creed series?
Ideally, start with Assassin’s Creed 1. If you find its gameplay too challenging, Assassin’s Creed II is a more accessible entry point while still being crucial to the overall narrative.
4. Do I need to play Assassin’s Creed: Rogue?
Assassin’s Creed: Rogue bridges the gap between Assassin’s Creed III and Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag and provides a unique perspective by casting you as a Templar. While not strictly essential, it adds depth to the overarching narrative and explores the Templar side of the conflict.
5. Is Assassin’s Creed Unity worth playing?
Despite its initial technical issues, Assassin’s Creed Unity offers a visually stunning recreation of revolutionary Paris and introduces new gameplay mechanics. If you’re interested in the French Revolution and are willing to overlook some flaws, it’s worth playing.
6. Are Assassin’s Creed Origins and Odyssey connected to the main story?
Yes, both Assassin’s Creed Origins and Assassin’s Creed Odyssey delve deeper into the origins of the Assassin-Templar conflict and explore the lore surrounding the Isu. They also feature modern-day storylines that connect them to the wider narrative.
7. Which Assassin’s Creed game has the best story?
Subjectivity plays a big role, but many fans consider the Ezio trilogy and Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag to have the best stories due to their compelling characters, engaging plots, and emotional depth.
8. What’s the difference between Assassin’s Creed in chronological order and in release order?
Playing in chronological order refers to playing the games based on the historical timeline of their settings. Playing in release order means playing them as they were released to the public. While each game can be played in chronological order, that may not be the best experience for you to enjoy the games.
9. Is Assassin’s Creed Valhalla a good starting point?
While Assassin’s Creed Valhalla is a visually impressive and content-rich game, it’s not the best starting point due to its scale and numerous gameplay systems. New players might find it overwhelming.
10. How long does it take to complete all Assassin’s Creed games?
Completing the main story of all Assassin’s Creed games takes approximately 447.5 hours. A completionist playthrough, including all side quests and collectibles, can take over 1164.5 hours.
11. Can I play Black Flag without playing the others?
Yes, you can. Black Flag is a great standalone game and is not necessary to be played with the other Assassin’s Creed.
12. What is the easiest Assassin’s Creed game?
Assassin’s Creed: Brotherhood is considered the easiest game because of the many features and perks the character gets as the game progresses through the story.
13. Is Ezio based on a real person?
No, Ezio Auditore is a fictional character, although he is set in the backdrop of a real historical setting.
14. Is it better to play Assassin’s Creed in release order or chronological order?
It is better to play in release order, as it offers a more cohesive understanding of the modern day meta-narrative.
15. Which Ezio game should I play first?
Play Assassin’s Creed 2 first, then Assassin’s Creed: Brotherhood, then Assassin’s Creed: Revelations.
Conclusion: Forge Your Own Path
Ultimately, the decision of whether to play the Assassin’s Creed games in order is a personal one. Consider your interests, time commitment, and tolerance for older gameplay mechanics. While playing in release order offers the most comprehensive experience, don’t be afraid to deviate from the path if it means enjoying the franchise more. The key is to immerse yourself in the world, explore the historical settings, and unravel the mysteries of the Assassin-Templar conflict. For more on gaming and learning, check out the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org.