Will the Next Assassin’s Creed Be About Basim?
The question of whether Basim Ibn Ishaq will headline another Assassin’s Creed title is complex, but currently, the straightforward answer is unlikely, but not impossible. While Basim received significant focus in Assassin’s Creed Mirage, acting as both a prequel to his appearance in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla and a deep dive into his origins, the narrative arc for his character, as it stands, appears largely complete. However, the intricate nature of the Assassin’s Creed universe leaves the door slightly ajar for future possibilities. Let’s delve into why.
Basim’s Story Arc: A Journey of Discovery and Revenge
Assassin’s Creed Mirage provided a detailed origin story for Basim, chronicling his transformation from a street thief in 9th-century Baghdad to a master assassin. This game served as a vital bridge, showcasing the events that shaped him into the cunning and conflicted character players encountered in Valhalla. Crucially, Mirage clarified Basim’s motivations, revealing his deep-seated desire for revenge fueled by his past as the Isu Loki.
We witnessed Basim grapple with his identity, his relationship with the Hidden Ones, and the resurfacing memories of his past life. This culminated in the revelations concerning Nehal, the mysterious jinn, and the advanced Isu technology under Alamut. The game directly connects to the events of Valhalla, where Basim‘s true allegiances and desire for vengeance are revealed. This connection essentially completes his immediate narrative arc in relation to the established games, leaving less room for another dedicated title centered solely on Basim’s personal journey.
The Current Narrative Landscape
The end of Mirage saw Basim released from his imprisonment in the Isu machine, eager to confront those he believed had wronged him. This set the stage for his role in Valhalla as an antagonist, where he actively seeks revenge on Eivor, the reincarnation of Odin, and other Isu. The conflict between Basim and Eivor forms a critical part of the overarching modern-day storyline, but further narrative development is currently focused more on the modern-day characters than a further look into his past.
Recent narrative focus in the franchise seems to be pivoting towards introducing new protagonists and exploring fresh time periods, making a direct sequel to Mirage unlikely. With each new game, the franchise has tended to introduce new assassins in different historical contexts, ensuring that the gameplay feels fresh and that there are new characters for players to learn about.
Why It’s Still Possible, However Unlikely
Despite the apparent conclusion of Basim’s character arc, the complexities of the Assassin’s Creed universe mean that a return is not entirely out of the question. Here’s how:
- Isu Connections: The deep connection Basim has with the Isu as the reincarnation of Loki opens a wide range of narrative possibilities. Future games could further explore the ramifications of this connection. Perhaps the other Isu he seeks to reunite with will play a pivotal role in new games, potentially bringing Basim back into the spotlight.
- The Modern-Day Storyline: Basim’s actions and influence in the modern-day timeline are significant. He is currently free and has possession of key Isu technology. While his goals don’t necessarily position him as a protagonist, his actions will undoubtedly affect the narrative direction for the modern-day characters and could potentially lead to him getting his own storyline again.
- Spin-offs and DLC: While a standalone title might be unlikely, a substantial DLC or a spin-off focused on Basim’s Isu-related story after Valhalla isn’t out of the realm of possibility. Ubisoft has used DLC in the past to develop stories for well-liked characters, and Basim could find a home in this format.
Conclusion
While it’s improbable, given the current trajectory of the Assassin’s Creed franchise, that the very next title will star Basim, the character’s intricate history and importance to the overall mythology make him a likely candidate for future narratives within the series. Players shouldn’t necessarily expect him as the lead in a mainline game, but his story is far from over. His presence in the lore remains vital, and we might very well see Basim continue to impact the overarching narrative in some way in future titles, whether in a smaller or larger capacity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Assassin’s Creed Mirage?
Assassin’s Creed Mirage is an Assassin’s Creed game that acts as a prequel to Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, focusing on the origin story of Basim Ibn Ishaq. It explores his journey from a thief to a master assassin in 9th-century Baghdad.
Why was Basim the protagonist of Mirage?
Basim was chosen as the protagonist of Mirage to provide a detailed origin story, explaining his motivations and actions in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla. The game shows how he transforms into the conflicted character players know.
Why does Basim look different in Mirage compared to Valhalla?
The difference in appearance is explained by the events leading up to Valhalla. Mirage depicts Basim before his significant traumas in Valhalla, showcasing a younger, less weathered version of the character.
Is Basim related to Altaïr?
No, Basim is not the father of Altaïr. While there are some similarities in appearance, there’s no direct familial connection. However, there is the possibility that Basim is a direct ancestor of Altaïr.
What is Basim’s role in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla?
In Valhalla, Basim is initially introduced as a mentor, but later reveals himself as an antagonist with a deep-seated desire for revenge on Eivor. His motivations stem from his past life as the Isu Loki.
Why does Basim hate Eivor in Valhalla?
Basim hates Eivor because she is the reincarnation of Odin, who was responsible for the suffering inflicted on his son Fenrir in his past life as Loki.
Why does Basim look similar to Ezio?
The similarity between Basim and Ezio is not explicitly explained in the game’s lore. However, it is theorized that this might be to establish a potential ancestral relationship, given that they lived hundreds of years apart.
Did Basim betray Layla Hassan?
Yes, Basim manipulates Layla Hassan in the modern-day timeline, using her to free himself from his Isu prison and stealing the Staff of Eden, leaving her to die.
How old is Basim in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla?
Basim was born in 844 and was approximately 33 years old during the events where he is hung on the tree in 877, which is shown within Valhalla.
Is Basim a good or bad guy in the overall Assassin’s Creed narrative?
Basim is a complex character. While his origin story in Mirage paints him in a more sympathetic light, his actions in Valhalla, reveal him to be a vengeful antagonist seeking to punish the Isu.
Does Basim know he is Loki?
Yes, Basim is fully aware of his past life as Loki in Valhalla. He seeks revenge on those who wronged him during his time in his Isu life.
Who is Basim’s son in Assassin’s Creed lore?
Basim, as the reincarnation of Loki, considers Fenrir to be his son. In Norse mythology, Fenrir is Loki’s son.
Is Assassin’s Creed Mirage before or after Valhalla?
Assassin’s Creed Mirage is a prequel to Assassin’s Creed Valhalla. Mirage explores Basim’s origin story, before his appearance in Valhalla.
What happens at the end of Assassin’s Creed Mirage?
The ending of Mirage reveals the true nature of Basim’s past as Loki and his connection to the Isu. It also highlights his desire for revenge and sets up his role in Valhalla.
Will Hytham appear in Assassin’s Creed Mirage?
Yes, Hytham appears in Assassin’s Creed Mirage as a young boy, showing the first meeting between him and Basim as he starts his journey to become a hidden one.