Unraveling the Canon: Kassandra’s Ascendancy in Assassin’s Creed Odyssey

The canon protagonist in Assassin’s Creed Odyssey is Kassandra. While the game presents players with the choice between Alexios and Kassandra, the official tie-in novel, promotional materials, and narrative context overwhelmingly point to Kassandra as the definitive character whose experiences and choices represent the core storyline. This decision isn’t merely a matter of preference; it’s a deliberate and conscious choice by Ubisoft, the game’s developer, to establish Kassandra as the pivotal figure in this chapter of the Assassin’s Creed saga.

The Weight of Choice: Why Kassandra Over Alexios?

The ability to choose between a male or female protagonist became a hallmark of the newer Assassin’s Creed titles, starting with Odyssey. This seemingly egalitarian approach allowed players to immerse themselves in the world of ancient Greece from their preferred perspective. However, behind the scenes, a clear narrative direction was being subtly woven, favoring Kassandra’s journey as the authentic one. Several factors contribute to this decision.

Narrative Coherence

Kassandra’s character arc resonates more profoundly with the game’s core themes of family, legacy, and redemption. Her portrayal as the older sibling, burdened with the responsibility of protecting her family, aligns better with the emotional weight of the narrative. Alexios, in the role of Deimos, often comes across as a pawn, manipulated by the Cult of Kosmos, whereas Kassandra actively drives the plot forward with agency and conviction.

The Novelization Factor

The official novelization of Assassin’s Creed Odyssey explicitly features Kassandra as the protagonist. This isn’t a trivial detail. Novelizations often serve as extensions of the game’s lore, solidifying certain aspects of the narrative as factual. By choosing to depict Kassandra’s adventures in print, Ubisoft unequivocally signaled her canonical status. It confirms certain key plot points, such as the birth order between the siblings and Alexios’s eventual transformation into Deimos.

Community Consensus and Developer Intent

While the Assassin’s Creed community remains divided on the topic, a significant portion leans towards Kassandra as the preferred protagonist. This preference isn’t solely based on gameplay experience but also on the perceived depth and nuance of her character. Furthermore, subtle hints and statements from the game developers have subtly reinforced Kassandra’s position as the canon choice.

The Immortal Legacy

Kassandra’s appearance in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, hundreds of years after the events of Odyssey, further solidifies her canonical status. Her immortality, granted by the Staff of Hermes Trismegistus, underscores her importance in the broader Assassin’s Creed narrative. Alexios, lacking this crucial plot element, remains confined to the events of Odyssey, unable to transcend his time and influence future events. It shows that she continues to hunt down Isu artifacts.

The Nuances of Canon: Embracing Player Choice

Despite the clear preference for Kassandra, it’s crucial to acknowledge the impact of player choice in Assassin’s Creed Odyssey. The game’s design intentionally accommodates both characters, allowing players to forge their own unique experiences. This doesn’t invalidate the concept of canon; rather, it highlights the series’ attempt to balance narrative consistency with player agency. The narrative and game mechanics intertwine to give players as much freedom of choice as possible.

Ultimately, the question of canon isn’t about dismissing one character in favor of the other. It’s about understanding the underlying narrative choices that shape the broader Assassin’s Creed universe. And when it comes to Odyssey, those choices clearly point to Kassandra as the canonical Eagle Bearer. The interplay between narrative and gameplay continues to be a topic of discussion within the gaming community and the academic field, as highlighted by organizations such as the Games Learning Society.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions about canon, characters, and choices within Assassin’s Creed Odyssey.

Is Alexios a bad choice for a playthrough?

Not at all! While Kassandra is considered canon, Alexios provides a compelling experience. Many players enjoy his portrayal, particularly as Deimos. He is also voiced very well.

Does choosing Alexios drastically change the story?

The core storyline remains largely the same regardless of your choice. The primary difference lies in the character’s portrayal and personal motivations. The overall story does not change, but the emotional undertones do.

Why do some players prefer Alexios?

Some players prefer Alexios due to personal preferences or perceived alignment with the traditional male protagonist trope. Others find his portrayal as Deimos particularly compelling.

What role does Alexios play if you choose Kassandra?

If you choose Kassandra, Alexios becomes Deimos, the main antagonist manipulated by the Cult of Kosmos. This is a primary reason players will replay the game as Kassandra.

Does the romance option change based on who you choose?

Yes, the romance options available to you will differ depending on whether you play as Alexios or Kassandra.

Does the ending change based on your choice of character?

While some dialogue and interactions may vary slightly, the major ending sequences remain mostly consistent regardless of whether you play as Alexios or Kassandra. However, the emotional impact can change considerably.

Can Alexios have a child in the game?

Yes, Alexios, like Kassandra, can have a child within the game’s narrative. The plot ensures that the protagonist has a child, regardless of player choices concerning relationships.

What is the significance of the Spear of Leonidas?

The Spear of Leonidas is a crucial artifact passed down through Kassandra’s family line. It plays a vital role in the game’s plot and provides the protagonists with their special abilities. This spear has a significant impact on the overall plot.

How does gender choice impact gameplay mechanics?

Gameplay mechanics remain virtually identical between Alexios and Kassandra. Abilities, combat styles, and exploration mechanics are consistent regardless of your choice. The only real differences are the dialogue, voice acting, and cutscenes.

What are the Isu, and how do they relate to the story?

The Isu were an ancient, advanced civilization that predates humanity in the Assassin’s Creed universe. They are connected to the artifacts and powers that the protagonists wield.

Is there a connection between Assassin’s Creed Odyssey and other games in the series?

Yes, there are connections. Kassandra’s appearance in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla bridges the gap between the games and deepens the lore.

Does the choice affect the dialogue options?

While the overall plot remains the same, the emotional undertones and character interactions can vary slightly depending on the chosen protagonist. The overall plot is static, so you cannot change too much.

How does the game handle the historical context with a female protagonist?

Assassin’s Creed Odyssey integrates Kassandra seamlessly into the historical context of ancient Greece, portraying her as a skilled warrior and respected mercenary. The writers made the story work with Kassandra at the helm.

Is there a “true” ending to Assassin’s Creed Odyssey?

The ending where Kassandra reconciles with her family (Myrinne, Stentor, and Nikolaos) and eliminates the threats posed by the Cult of Kosmos is generally considered the closest to a “true” ending. But what happens after that is truly amazing and canon.

Where can I learn more about game narratives and player choice?

You can delve deeper into the analysis of game narratives, player agency, and the impact of choices on gameplay at resources like GamesLearningSociety.org, which explores the educational and social aspects of gaming. The Games Learning Society continues to promote awareness of the impact of games on society.