Is Odyssey Gender Canon? Exploring the Nuances of Choice in Assassin’s Creed
The answer, while seemingly simple, is nuanced: Kassandra is considered the canon protagonist of Assassin’s Creed Odyssey. While the game allows players to choose between Alexios and Kassandra, the official novelization of the game, written with the creative input of the game’s writers, features Kassandra as the main character. This, coupled with her later appearance as a key figure in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, solidifies her position as the officially recognized protagonist within the overarching narrative of the franchise. However, it’s vital to understand why this choice was made and what it means for players who prefer Alexios. The game’s narrative structure is designed to accommodate either character, making the experience enjoyable regardless of your choice.
The Case for Kassandra: Canon and Narrative Intent
The designation of Kassandra as canon stems from several factors. Firstly, the novelization explicitly tells the story through her perspective. This provides a clear indication of the writers’ preferred narrative path. Secondly, her role as the older sibling who ultimately defeats Alexios, who becomes the villainous Deimos in a Kassandra playthrough, arguably delivers a more impactful and thematically resonant story. Kassandra’s journey, marked by resilience, compassion, and a constant struggle against forces seeking to control her, aligns strongly with established Assassin’s Creed themes.
However, the choice isn’t simply arbitrary. Ubisoft has been increasingly focused on representation and diverse character portrayals within their games. While Alexios offers a compelling protagonist in his own right, Kassandra’s canonization can be viewed as a deliberate effort to elevate female characters in the action-adventure genre. This doesn’t invalidate the experience of playing as Alexios, but rather highlights the story that Ubisoft has chosen to emphasize within the broader Assassin’s Creed universe. You can learn more about similar topics by visiting the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org.
Understanding the Impact on Gameplay
It’s crucial to recognize that the gameplay experience remains largely identical regardless of the character you choose. The storyline, missions, and dialogue are designed to accommodate both Alexios and Kassandra. This is a testament to the developers’ commitment to player agency and choice. While the narrative framework leans towards Kassandra, the actual gameplay experience is flexible enough to cater to diverse preferences.
This approach offers a best-of-both-worlds scenario: players who prioritize canon adherence can choose Kassandra, while those who prefer Alexios can still enjoy a full and satisfying Assassin’s Creed experience. The developers understand that personal preference is a significant factor, and the game reflects this understanding.
Canon, Choice, and the Future of Assassin’s Creed
The debate surrounding Odyssey’s canon is indicative of a larger trend within the Assassin’s Creed franchise: the increasing emphasis on player choice and agency. While established lore remains important, Ubisoft is clearly experimenting with different narrative structures and character portrayals.
The decision to allow players to choose their protagonist in games like Odyssey and Valhalla reflects this evolution. It acknowledges that player investment is often tied to character identification and that allowing players to shape their own experience can significantly enhance engagement. Whether this trend continues remains to be seen, but it underscores the evolving relationship between developers and players.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions addressing the intricacies of gender canon and other related aspects of Assassin’s Creed Odyssey:
1. Is it canon to play as Kassandra or Alexios?
Kassandra is the canon choice. The official novel and her appearance in Valhalla cement this.
2. Does gender matter in Odyssey?
Not significantly in terms of gameplay. Both characters experience the same story and missions. However, the narrative emphasis is on Kassandra’s story.
3. Why is it Kassandra and not Alexios?
The writers prioritized Kassandra for the novelization, and her character arc is arguably more compelling. This may reflect a desire for greater female representation.
4. What are the canon genders in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla?
Female Eivor is the canon version. However, the game incorporates elements of male Eivor into the story due to the presence of Odin’s DNA.
5. Why is Kassandra in Valhalla?
She appears in Valhalla as part of a bonus questline, solidifying her status as the canon Eagle Bearer from Odyssey.
6. Is Alexios Deimos if you choose Kassandra?
Yes, if you play as Kassandra, Alexios is kidnapped and becomes the villainous Deimos.
7. How many people chose Alexios over Kassandra?
After release, players chose Alexios by roughly two-to-one.
8. Is the story different if you play as Alexios?
The core story is the same. Dialogue and character interactions are designed to work with either character.
9. Does Odyssey have multiple endings?
Yes, Assassin’s Creed Odyssey has nine different endings depending on your choices.
10. What is Kassandra called if you choose Alexios?
If you choose Alexios, Kassandra becomes Deimos. Alexios is then referred to as the Eagle Bearer/Misthios.
11. What is Kassandra’s canon outfit?
The Mercenary armor set is considered Kassandra’s canon outfit, often with the Mercenary hood or helmet.
12. Can you switch from Kassandra to Alexios mid-game?
No, you choose either Kassandra or Alexios at the beginning of the game, and that choice is locked for that playthrough. You can choose a different character for each new game run.
13. What happens if you say you killed Nikolaos?
Killing Nikolaos impacts the ending you receive, potentially preventing you from achieving the best possible outcome.
14. Are Alexios and Kassandra demigods?
Yes, both Alexios and Kassandra are considered demigods in the Assassin’s Creed lore, making them exceptionally powerful.
15. How old was Kassandra when she died?
Kassandra was well over 2000 years old when she died. Her extended lifespan is due to the Staff of Hermes Trismegistus.
These FAQs help clarify the nuanced situation surrounding gender choices in Assassin’s Creed Odyssey and offer a deeper understanding of the narrative intent and player experience.