Unveiling the Timeline: When Does Assassin’s Creed Origins Take Place?
Assassin’s Creed Origins unfolds primarily between 49 and 43 BC, at the tail end of the Ptolemaic period in Ancient Egypt. This pivotal era serves as the backdrop for the compelling story of Bayek of Siwa and his wife Aya as they embark on a quest for vengeance following the tragic murder of their son. The game masterfully recreates this tumultuous period, immersing players in a world teetering on the brink of change. The narrative not only explores the personal struggles of Bayek and Aya but also provides a glimpse into the political intrigue and social complexities of the era, setting the stage for the formation of the Hidden Ones, the precursors to the Assassin Brotherhood.
Exploring the Historical Context of Assassin’s Creed Origins
The game’s setting during the late Ptolemaic period is crucial to understanding the events and motivations of its characters. This was a time of political instability, with Rome’s influence growing in Egypt. The Ptolemaic dynasty, which had ruled Egypt since the death of Alexander the Great, was struggling to maintain control, and figures like Cleopatra were vying for power. This historical backdrop provides the game with a rich tapestry of political and social dynamics, which are brilliantly woven into the game’s narrative.
Key Time Markers Within the Game’s Timeline
The narrative begins around 49 BC, setting the stage with the initial loss that ignites Bayek and Aya’s quest for retribution. Over the course of the game, we see events unfold over a span of approximately six years, culminating around 43 BC. This period is critical as it witnesses the formal establishment of the Hidden Ones, laying the groundwork for the long-standing conflict between the Assassins and the Templars that dominates the Assassin’s Creed franchise. It’s the end of a civilization and the birth of a legendary organization.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Assassin’s Creed Origins
Here are 15 Frequently Asked Questions that delve deeper into the world of Assassin’s Creed Origins, its timeline, and connections to the broader franchise:
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How does the timeline of Assassin’s Creed Origins relate to the other games?
Assassin’s Creed Origins is chronologically one of the earliest entries in the franchise. It’s set hundreds of years before most other games, particularly four centuries before Assassin’s Creed Odyssey, which takes place in ancient Greece, and serves as a foundational story detailing the birth of the Assassins. -
Who are Bayek and Aya, and what motivates them?
Bayek and Aya are a married couple from Siwa, Egypt. They are both Medjay, protectors of their land, who set out on a quest for vengeance after their son’s death. They are pivotal figures as they eventually found the Hidden Ones. -
Why is the year 49 BC so significant in the game?
The year 49 BC is significant because it marks the start of the main storyline in the game, triggered by the tragic events that set Bayek and Aya on their path of revenge. It’s also a period of intense political unrest in Egypt. -
Is the Hidden Ones organization depicted in Origins the same as the Assassin Brotherhood?
Yes, the Hidden Ones are the precursors to the Assassin Brotherhood. Origins depicts the formation of this organization and its early ideology, laying the foundation for the Assassins of later games. -
Does Assassin’s Creed Origins accurately depict the historical period?
While the game includes fictional elements, it is heavily inspired by history. The setting, political events, and key figures such as Cleopatra and Julius Caesar are grounded in historical accuracy, giving players a sense of the period. -
How old are Bayek and Aya during the events of the game?
Bayek’s precise age is not stated, but he is likely in his late 30s to early 40s during the events of the game. Aya’s age is similarly estimated, potentially being around 40-41 at the beginning of Origins, with later events taking place when she would be in her 50s. -
Is Bayek considered the first Assassin?
While Darius, from an earlier time, also wielded a Hidden Blade and held similar beliefs, Bayek and Aya are recognized as the founders of the Hidden Ones. They are the first to formalize their code and organization, making them the first “true” Assassins. -
What is the relationship between the Hidden Ones and the Order of the Ancients?
The Order of the Ancients is the predecessor to the Templar Order. The primary conflict throughout the game is Bayek and Aya’s fight against this organization and their quest to bring them to justice. -
What major historical figures appear in Assassin’s Creed Origins?
Several notable historical figures, like Cleopatra, Julius Caesar, and Pompey, are featured in the game, often playing crucial roles in the unfolding narrative. This adds depth and context to the game. -
Is there any modern-day storyline in Assassin’s Creed Origins?
Yes, like other games in the series, Origins does have a modern-day storyline. It focuses on Layla Hassan, who explores the past through the Animus. However, the primary focus is still on Bayek and Aya’s story. -
Does the game explore the culture and daily life of Ancient Egypt?
Absolutely. The game does an incredible job of presenting a detailed depiction of Ancient Egyptian culture, including its religious practices, social structures, and daily routines of people from different societal strata. -
How does the timeline of the game connect to later Assassins like Altaïr?
The events of Origins set the stage for the creation of the Assassins and their ongoing struggle against the Templars, which is a conflict that is central to all the other games. Altaïr is a descendant in this line of assassins, and his actions are a direct result of the creation of the hidden ones in origins. -
Are there any DLCs (Downloadable Content) for Assassin’s Creed Origins, and how do they affect the timeline?
Yes, there are DLCs such as “The Hidden Ones” and “The Curse of the Pharaohs”. “The Hidden Ones” picks up several years after the main game’s events, detailing the early days of the Hidden Ones. “Curse of the Pharaohs” introduces a supernatural storyline set within the afterlife. Both DLCs expand upon the established timeline of Origins. -
What is the significance of the hidden blade in the game?
The hidden blade is the iconic weapon of the Assassins, but in Origins, it’s a prototype. It’s introduced by Darius, and Bayek develops a modified version. It symbolizes the organization and its stealthy ways. -
Why did Bayek and Aya part ways?
After their son’s death and separate journeys and experiences, Bayek and Aya began to feel they were more dedicated to the Hidden Ones than their relationship. This is a sad and impactful moment in the game’s storyline.
Conclusion
Assassin’s Creed Origins is set during a transformative period in Egyptian history and a foundational period for the assassin brotherhood, between 49 and 43 BC. It masterfully blends historical elements with a compelling fictional narrative, providing players with a deep and meaningful experience, and gives rise to a powerful movement that would become the backbone of the entire series. The game’s meticulous attention to detail and engaging storyline continue to captivate players, solidifying its place as a crucial chapter in the Assassin’s Creed franchise.