Who is the Most Evil Assassin? Unpacking Morality in Assassin’s Creed
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
Determining the “most evil” assassin across the vast Assassin’s Creed universe is a complex task. While the franchise often pits the Assassins against the Templars, framing them as the “good guys” fighting for freedom, morality isn’t always so clear-cut. Many assassins have made questionable decisions, acted ruthlessly, or even betrayed their creed. However, considering the criteria of intent, impact, and long-term consequences, Shay Patrick Cormac emerges as arguably the most evil assassin in the Assassin’s Creed lore.
Shay, the protagonist of Assassin’s Creed Rogue, wasn’t inherently malevolent. He began as a loyal Assassin, driven by a desire to protect humanity. However, his faith was shattered after a mission to Lisbon resulted in a catastrophic earthquake. This event, coupled with the Assassin Brotherhood’s apparent disregard for the consequences of their actions, led Shay to believe they were doing more harm than good.
What makes Shay truly “evil” isn’t his initial disillusionment, but his subsequent actions. Instead of seeking reform within the Brotherhood, or simply leaving, Shay chose to actively hunt down his former comrades, effectively crippling the Assassin Order in North America and paving the way for increased Templar influence. He betrayed everything he once stood for, directly contributing to the suffering of countless individuals in the name of a twisted sense of “order.”
While other assassins might have committed morally ambiguous acts, Shay’s actions had a devastating, far-reaching impact. He wasn’t simply a rogue agent acting out of personal vengeance; he systematically dismantled an entire faction dedicated to free will, making him a crucial instrument in the Templar’s quest for control. His betrayal isn’t just a personal failing; it’s a strategic blow against the principles the Assassins fight to uphold. This makes Shay Cormac, arguably, the most evil assassin in the franchise. The study of morality and ethics within games like Assassin’s Creed is a fascinating topic explored in educational settings and at organizations like the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Are the Assassins truly the “good guys” in Assassin’s Creed?
No, the Assassin’s Creed games often present a nuanced view of morality. While the Assassins fight for freedom and free will, they are not always ethically pure. Many characters within the Order make questionable decisions, and their methods can be brutal. The Templars, while seeking control and order, also believe they are acting in the best interest of humanity. The series explores the gray areas of morality, forcing players to question who is truly “right.”
2. Is there a definitive “good” or “evil” faction in Assassin’s Creed?
No, there is not a single “good” or “evil” faction, and that’s by design. The central conflict between the Assassins and Templars is rooted in differing ideologies, not inherent moral corruption. The Assassins champion freedom, which can lead to chaos, while the Templars prioritize order, which can lead to oppression. Both sides have committed atrocities in pursuit of their goals, blurring the lines of morality.
3. Why is Rodrigo Borgia considered so evil?
Rodrigo Borgia (Pope Alexander VI) is consistently ranked as one of the most evil characters in Assassin’s Creed because of his rampant corruption, nepotism, and ruthlessness during his time as head of the Templar Order and the Papacy. He used his power for personal gain, orchestrated wars, and manipulated events to further his family’s ambitions, all while disregarding the well-being of the people he was supposed to serve.
4. How does Haytham Kenway’s character complicate the notion of “evil”?
Haytham Kenway is a complex and morally ambiguous character. He is a Templar, but he possesses a strong sense of honor and believes in order and control, not necessarily oppression. His motivations stem from a genuine desire to create a better world, albeit through a different approach than the Assassins. His charisma and genuine concern for others make him a compelling, yet ultimately dangerous, figure.
5. Was Lucy Stillman truly evil?
Lucy Stillman’s betrayal in Assassin’s Creed III is a controversial topic. While she worked with the Assassins, it was revealed she was a double agent working for the Templars. Whether her motivations were purely malicious or driven by a misguided belief in the Templar cause is open to interpretation. However, her deception and manipulation had a significant impact on the lives of Desmond Miles and the other Assassins, making her actions unquestionably harmful.
6. What role does free will play in the Assassin’s Creed universe?
Free will is a central theme in Assassin’s Creed. The Assassins believe that individuals should have the freedom to make their own choices, even if those choices lead to chaos or conflict. The Templars, on the other hand, believe that humanity needs guidance and control to prevent self-destruction. This ideological conflict drives the entire narrative of the series.
7. How does the Isu influence the conflict between Assassins and Templars?
The Isu, the precursor race, left behind advanced technology and artifacts that both the Assassins and Templars seek to control. These artifacts often grant immense power and knowledge, which can be used for good or evil. The struggle for these artifacts further fuels the conflict between the two factions and adds another layer of complexity to the series’ moral landscape.
8. Are all Templars inherently evil?
No, not all Templars are inherently evil. The Templar Order is driven by the desire for order and control, which they believe is necessary for humanity to thrive. While their methods can be oppressive and their goals often conflict with the principles of freedom, individual Templars may have noble intentions and believe they are acting in the best interest of humanity.
9. What are the Templars’ goals?
The Templars seek to establish a world of peace and order, but they believe this can only be achieved through control. They believe humanity is inherently flawed and prone to chaos, and therefore needs guidance and governance to prevent self-destruction. They seek to eliminate free will and impose a structured society where everyone fulfills their designated role.
10. How does the use of historical figures impact the moral ambiguity of the Assassin’s Creed games?
The Assassin’s Creed games incorporate historical figures, often portraying them as either Assassins or Templars. This allows the writers to explore the moral complexities of these figures and reinterpret their actions through the lens of the franchise’s lore. It challenges players to question their preconceptions about historical events and consider alternative perspectives.
11. How do personal experiences shape an Assassin’s moral compass?
Personal experiences significantly impact an Assassin’s moral compass. Traumatic events, losses, and betrayals can lead assassins to question their beliefs and make choices that deviate from the Assassin’s Creed. For example, Shay Cormac’s experience in Lisbon shattered his faith in the Assassin Brotherhood and led him down a path of betrayal.
12. What are some examples of morally ambiguous actions taken by Assassins?
Some examples include Ezio Auditore’s ruthless vengeance against those who wronged his family, Connor Kenway’s unwavering dedication to his people leading him to make difficult sacrifices, and Altair Ibn-La’Ahad’s early arrogance and defiance of the Creed, which resulted in the compromise of the Brotherhood.
13. Can Assassins be redeemed?
Yes, redemption is a recurring theme in the Assassin’s Creed series. Characters who have made mistakes or strayed from the Creed can find redemption through acts of selflessness, sacrifice, or by dedicating themselves to the greater good.
14. What is the Assassin’s Creed and what does it mean to them?
The Assassin’s Creed is a set of principles that guide the actions of the Assassin Brotherhood. These principles emphasize free will, fighting against oppression, and striving for justice. It’s a philosophical framework that informs their actions and helps them navigate the complex moral landscape of their world. The most famous tenets are “Nothing is True, Everything is Permitted.”
15. How does Assassin’s Creed explore the dangers of extremism?
The series explores the dangers of extremism by showcasing the negative consequences of both the Assassin and Templar ideologies when taken to their extreme. The Assassins’ unwavering commitment to freedom can lead to chaos and instability, while the Templars’ pursuit of order can lead to oppression and tyranny. The games highlight the importance of balance and moderation in any ideology.